Hiking in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords, Westfjords

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve sits at the tip of Iceland's Westfjords region and offers a blend of picturesque scenery and fascinating history. A hike in the area passes by remains of a British radar station from WWII, many species of Icelandic birds, and some of the most beautiful cliffs in the country.

You'll start the experience with a scenic boat ride through fjords and along mountain cliffs, ending at the sandy beach near Slétta. Nearby is a lighthouse where curious seals swim along the shore. Then, you'll hike up to a small lake called Teistuvatn, home to the graceful whooper swans and kittiwakes bird species. Finally, continue to the top of the 1,600-foot (500-m) cliffs, peering over the edge to watch the waves crash against the rocks. You'll find other bird species nesting on the cliffs, including fulmars, gulls, guillemots, and even the colorful puffins.

Keep walking until you find the British naval radar station, constructed in 1943. You can explore the ruins of the generators, warehouses, barracks, and turret. This was the location of a very secret operation during the war, which watched for any enemy planes or ships coming into Icelandic waters.

From here, follow the jeep track leading down the mountain toward the Bay of Aðalvík. Finally, you'll reach the shore at Látrar, which was once a thriving village and where you'll board the boat back to Ísafjörður. Keep your eyes open for whales!

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