Fantastic Fjords is a local Travel Agency in Ísafjörður. After  many years in the Travel and Service industry, both in Reykjavik and New York, we decided to move to the Westfjords of Iceland and start our own company in early 2016. Focus on Soft Travel with culinary touch, history and culture and mix and mingle with the locals.

Travel with a foodie twist

Fantastic Fjords specialises in so-called soft travel, where experience, leisurely travel and local connections are at the forefront. This way, food culture, historical insights and interaction with locals are part of each trip, making the experience both personal and memorable.

Customized trips

Each trip is customised to the needs and interests of each client with an emphasis on personal service and unexpected surprises that are often missing from traditional travel.

Unexpected experiences in unexpected places

Fantastic Fjords’ goal is to create unique experiences in places that surprise guests. Whether travelling exclusively in the Westfjords or combining the trip with other parts of the country, we ensure that each guest goes home with unforgettable memories.

Start planning your trip

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The Dalir District is a region where history and nature meet in a unique way. Here you can trace the footsteps of early settlers and the stories of the Icelandic Sagas, while also enjoying tranquillity, diverse outdoor activities and a warm local community. Dalir offers an experience that blends cultural heritage with natural beauty – a place to travel slowly and savour.

Historic sites and nature experiences

Cultural heritage

The voice of nature

Accommodation and local connections

Dalir is a place to travel slowly, embrace the atmosphere, enjoy and simply be.

Ten ideas for activities in the Dalir District

Further information can be found at west.is.

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Nature, culture and adventure

Welcome to the Upper Árnessýsla Region, where natural beauty blends with captivating culture and unforgettable adventures. The area offers numerous interesting places to visit – well-known natural attractions, historic sites and hidden gems. Here you will find beautiful waterfalls, hot springs and a wide range of experiences for visitors of all ages.

Everyone knows Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir and Skálholt, but the region has so much more to offer. Most people are familiar with the Golden Circle, but it is in fact much larger than many realise – more like a golden chain than a circle. In the Upper Árnessýsla Region there is always something new and exciting to discover.

We recommend spending more than one day to enjoy everything the region has to offer. A wide variety of accommodation is available: campsites, guesthouses, summer cottages, hotels and mountain huts. Many places offer hot tubs, and there is always a swimming pool nearby.

The region is known for excellent local food and unique culinary experiences – the Upper Árnessýsla Region is a true food basket and the cradle of vegetable cultivation in Iceland.

Diverse activities

The Upper Árnessýsla Region offers activities for all interests and all members of the family. You can rent horses or attend a horse show, go quad biking, snowmobiling or river rafting. A visit to the Hella Caves and the Laugarvatn Caves is an unforgettable experience.

The area is ideal for birdwatchers and hikers – walking paths lead through forests and small hills await climbing. The Slakki Mini Zoo in Laugarás is a popular destination for families. You will also find an adventure park, galleries, museums, exhibitions, several swimming pools and golf courses.

Visitors can enjoy frisbee golf, football golf, beach volleyball and various sports and playgrounds. Whether you seek tranquillity, knowledge, excitement – or a little of everything – the region has something for you.

There are several charming villages and small communities: Flúðir, Laugarvatn, Brautarholt, Árnes, Reykholt, Laugarás, Borg and Sólheimar. Each offers useful services and is ideal for a short stay, a visit to local campsites or accommodation, and exploring what the surrounding area has to offer.

Unique nature

The nature of the Upper Árnessýsla Region is beautiful and diverse. Highlights include Kerið, Úlfljótsvatn, Þjórsárdalur, Brúarhlöð, Kerlingarfjöll, Kjölur, Háifoss, Laxárgljúfur, Hjálparfoss, Haukadalsskógur, Faxi and the Laugarvatn area.

The region offers excellent outdoor opportunities – walking trails, guided hikes and each season with its own charm.

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Daily walking tours in downtown Reykjavík

CityWalk provides daily guided walking tours in Reykjavík for travellers and private groups. The company was founded in 2014 by Marteinn Briem and has from the beginning offered free walking tours where guests give voluntary contributions at the end. These popular tours have gained attention in international media and at hotels across the city. All tours are conducted in English by an experienced guide.

To book, visit the CityWalk website.

Private walking tours for groups

For those seeking a more personalised experience, CityWalk offers private walking tours lasting 2–3 hours. These tours are designed for smaller groups and often include food.

The Icelandic Walk – for groups and companies

Icelandic groups, companies and social clubs can book the Icelandic Walk, a customised tour of the city centre focusing on Icelandic history and culture.

Reliability and flexibility

CityWalk has never cancelled a tour and always has a plan B if conditions change. Flexibility and professionalism are key elements of the service and are reflected in numerous positive reviews from satisfied guests and partners.

Further information can be found at CityWalk.is.

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Just 30 minutes from Reykjavík, The Lava Tunnel offers a rare chance to step into one of Iceland’s longest and best‑known lava tubes, Raufarhólshellir. Open all year, it is easily reached from the city yet feels like a journey deep into the volcanic heart of the country.

An impressive underground world

Raufarhólshellir stretches for about 1,360 metres (4,500 ft), with the main passage running some 900 metres (3,000 ft). In places the tunnel is up to 30 metres wide and around 10 metres high, making it one of the most expansive lava tunnels in Iceland. Near the entrance, parts of the roof have collapsed, creating striking shafts of natural light that illuminate the cave. Deeper inside, the tunnel branches into three smaller passages where dramatic lava falls and intricate formations can be seen.

Formed by a powerful eruption

The Lava Tunnel was created during the Leitahraun eruption, over 5,000 years ago. As low‑viscosity lava flowed from the volcano, a solid crust formed on the surface and gradually thickened into a roof, leaving a molten river running beneath. When the eruption ended and the lava drained away, it left behind the hollow tube we explore today. In the past, the cave was lined with delicate stalactites, but increasing visitor numbers in the mid‑20th century caused most of them to disappear, making current conservation efforts all the more important.

A guided journey beneath the surface

A visit to The Lava Tunnel is a guided experience that reveals the raw forces shaping Iceland. Walking along the illuminated path, you can see how lava once surged through the tube, carving out walls, ceilings and lava falls. It is a unique opportunity to witness the aftermath of a volcanic eruption from the inside and to discover the hidden world that lies just below the surface of the lava field.

Experience The Lava Tunnel

Whether you choose a standard walk or a longer adventure tour, The Lava Tunnel combines accessibility with genuine geological wonder. It is an ideal addition to a day trip from Reykjavík and a memorable way to experience Iceland’s volcanic landscape from within.

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The Wilderness Centre in Fljótsdalur is a unique destination where history, culture and wilderness meet. Visitors step into the past as they cross the old wooden bridge. Daily life from earlier centuries comes alive through buildings, artefacts and stories linked to Iceland’s remote interior.

The exhibition guides guests through the lives of outlaws, travellers and people who lived in the challenging highlands. Each detail helps visitors connect with the past and understand the conditions and lifestyle that shaped life in these isolated regions.

A storytelling exhibition capturing the spirit of the wilderness

The centre offers a varied and visual exhibition with narratives, photographs, film, audio and real objects. It appeals to history lovers, adventurers and families who want to explore Iceland’s wilderness in a clear and engaging way.

Accommodation inspired by bygone times

Guests can “sleep in a museum” in a traditional baðstofa where the atmosphere reflects rural life of past centuries. The rooms are warm and comfortable, suitable for individuals, couples, families and small groups who want to stay near the highlands.

Hot pool, bathhouse and tranquillity in nature

The hot pool at The Wilderness Centre offers wide views over the valley and is ideal after a day outdoors. The experience is special under winter stars or the summer’s midnight sun. The bathhouse includes a steam room and a quiet relaxation area close to nature.

Local food prepared in front of guests

The restaurant focuses on local ingredients and cooking traditions from the region. Meals are prepared in the old kitchen in front of guests, and all baked goods are made on site. Flavour, history and homely atmosphere blend into one memorable experience.

Outdoor adventures in Fljótsdalur and the highlands

Visitors can join many tours, including hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, stargazing, cross‑country skiing and group activities. Short day tours and longer guided trips are available, offering insight into nature, wildlife and historic sites.

Ten ideas for recreation in East Iceland:

1. Walk up to Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, set against striking red and black cliffs.
2. Relax in the floating geothermal pools at Vök Baths near Egilsstaðir.
3. Visit the hot springs at Laugarfell on the way to Mt. Snæfell.
4. Explore Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, with tall trees, lakeside paths and the legendary Lagarfljót worm.
5. Discover the dramatic basalt columns of Stuðlagil canyon in Jökuldalur, now famous for its vivid blue river.
6. Sample craft beers from Austri Brewery in Egilsstaðir and Beljandi Brewery in Breiðdalsvík.
7. Join a guided tour to spot wild reindeer and learn more about them at the East Iceland Heritage Museum in Egilsstaðir.
8. Visit Snæfellsstofa Visitor Centre at Skriðuklaustur for an engaging exhibition on Vatnajökull National Park.
9. Enjoy organic produce from Vallanes and taste traditional Icelandic skyr at Fjóshornið, the cowshed café in Egilsstaðir.
10. In summer, book a table at Norð Austur Sushi & Bar in Seyðisfjörður, known for fresh local fish and Iceland-grown wasabi.

Find more information about these destinations at east.is.

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The Institute of Archaeology is a leading organisation in Icelandic archaeology. It has always emphasised high‑quality research, strong collaboration and clear communication. The Institute aims to deepen understanding of Iceland’s cultural heritage through scientific methods, transparency and steady development of the discipline.

Archaeological surveys and excavations across Iceland

Since 1993, the Institute has carried out archaeological surveys linked to planning projects across Iceland. Its recording systems, data storage and dissemination methods have been developed to ensure reliable and accessible information. Each year, the Institute undertakes many excavations. These range from large, long‑term projects to smaller exploratory trenches connected to planning assessments.

Since 2017, the Institute has also conducted architectural surveys in several regions. This work supports the preservation of built heritage and improves understanding of settlement development in Iceland.

The Archaeology School – training for future archaeologists

The Archaeology School, established in 1997, is one of the Institute’s best‑known educational programmes. It strengthens the knowledge of Icelandic and international students and provides practical and academic training. Students from around the world join a four‑week course. They learn excavation methods, site recording and academic skills under expert guidance.

The Children’s Archaeology School is run in cooperation with schools, organisations and foreign universities. The project has gained attention for presenting archaeology to children in an engaging and accessible way.

Publications and academic dissemination

The Institute oversees an active publishing programme that supports academic discussion and shares new research. The journal Archaeologia Islandica, first published in 1998, features articles on Icelandic archaeology and related topics. It is published in English and reaches an international audience interested in Icelandic heritage.

The Institute of Archaeology plays a key role in preserving and researching historical sites across Iceland. Through documentation, research and education, it promotes deeper understanding of Icelandic history and culture. Visitors can experience the past in direct connection with real landscapes and archaeological remains.

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The Cultural Heritage Agency of Iceland is the national authority for cultural heritage. It operates under the Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Climate. The agency carries out heritage protection in line with the 2013 Cultural Heritage Act. It aims to safeguard the nation’s cultural and historical heritage. It works to preserve heritage in its original environment and to make it accessible to the public.

Protection of Archaeological and Architectural Heritage

The agency oversees archaeological remains and architectural heritage across Iceland. It monitors the condition of protected sites, buildings and structures. It also sets rules for their registration and conservation. Through cooperation with expert committees, the agency works to ensure long‑term protection for archaeological sites, historic buildings and cultural landscapes.

Cultural Heritage and Cultural Landscapes

Cultural heritage includes many traces of Iceland’s history. These range from archaeological remains and cultural landscapes to church objects, memorials, buildings and other structures. Ships, boats, artworks and everyday objects also fall under cultural heritage. The agency identifies, records and protects this diverse heritage so it reflects the country’s history and identity.

Heritage Areas, Wardens and Heritage Councils

Iceland is divided into eight heritage areas. Each area has a heritage warden who oversees cultural heritage in the region. Every area also has a heritage council that supports decisions and policy work. This structure ensures local knowledge and close cooperation with municipalities. It also improves public access to guidance on heritage protection.

Funds for the Protection of Cultural Heritage

The Archaeological Heritage Fund and the Architectural Heritage Fund operate under the agency. They play a key role in heritage protection. The agency allocates grants after expert review and monitors funded projects. It also decides on other financial allocations in consultation with heritage committees. This helps ensure that funding supports effective heritage protection.

Research, Registration and Protection

The agency sets rules for registering protected and listed archaeological sites, buildings and structures. It maintains complete records of these heritage items, including protected gravestones and memorials. It submits proposals to the minister on protection or de‑listing when needed. The agency can also impose temporary protection if heritage is at risk. This ensures timely safeguarding of important sites.

Under the Cultural Heritage Act, the agency sets conditions for archaeological research that involves ground disturbance. It oversees all such investigations in Iceland. It reviews and grants permits for site‑specific and time‑limited research. The agency also carries out field assessments, emergency excavations and urgent investigations when required. This ensures professional and responsible archaeological work.

The agency’s records form an important basis for policy, research and education. Digital databases and mapping tools help make heritage information accessible to the public, professionals and authorities. This supports informed decisions on planning, land use and heritage protection.

International Relations and the Movement of Cultural Property

The agency oversees the movement of cultural heritage to other countries. It manages permits for the export of cultural property. It also implements laws on the return of cultural items to other nations. The agency ensures that Iceland meets its international obligations in heritage protection. This supports responsible handling of cultural property in a global context.

Collaboration, Guidance and Education

The agency establishes heritage councils in each heritage area and oversees their work. This strengthens cooperation with municipalities, institutions and the public. It provides guidance on the protection, maintenance and use of cultural heritage. The agency also takes part in educational and outreach projects. Through collaboration and knowledge‑sharing, it helps ensure that cultural heritage remains a living part of society and accessible to future generations.

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The Wapp – hiking app offers a wide range of GPS‑based trail descriptions across Iceland, with information on place names, stories, nature and the environment. All routes are built on
Samsýn’s mapping system and can be downloaded to your phone for use offline, ensuring safety and access anywhere in the country.

Trail descriptions with maps, photos and practical details

Each trail description includes maps, photographs and clear information on access, seasonal conditions, parking and public toilets. Any hazards or special safety considerations are clearly marked so users can prepare well and travel safely.

Routes marked as guided include information points highlighting wildlife, geology, place names and historical sites. In this way, The Wapp – hiking app combines outdoor activity, learning and safe navigation in one place.

Diverse hiking routes for everyone

The Wapp offers hundreds of routes of varying length and difficulty, from short family‑friendly walks to demanding mountain hikes. The routes suit both locals and visitors who want to explore Icelandic nature on their own terms.

Safety and accessibility first

Because the trail descriptions are available offline, they can be followed anywhere in Iceland, even in remote areas. This increases safety and makes the app a reliable companion for anyone who wants to enjoy outdoor experiences in a safe and informative way.

Download The Wapp – hiking app

The Wapp is available for both iPhone and Android. Learn more at www.wapp.is. The app is essential for anyone who wants to discover new hiking routes, learn about nature and history, and travel with secure GPS navigation in their pocket.

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