High demand

Hotels

  • Growing demand: The Westfjords' unique appeal is drawing an increasing number of tourists, signaling a robust demand for accommodations.
  • High utilization rate: During the summer months, hotels in the Westfjords and the West achieve an impressive 80% utilization rate, showcasing strong seasonal performance.
  • Top destination: 60,4% of tourists planning to return to Iceland express a preference for the Westfjords, based on surveys made by Icleandic tourist board.
  • Wide appeal: The region's popularity spans various international markets, with notable interest from the US, Germany, France, and Italy.

Winter

Winter tourism

Culture and cuisine: Local culinary practices and diverse museums in the Westfjords reflect a unique intertwining of tradition and innovation.

Unique events: Events such as the Pigeon International Film Festival (PIFF), Skjaldborg Documentary Film Festival, 'Aldrei fór ég suður' Music Festival, and the Fossavatn Ski Marathon already possess significant appeal beyond the peak season.

Sustainability and community: Investments in tourism support sustainable development and strengthen the local community, with a focus on environmental and cultural conservation.

Nature experience and recreation: The Westfjords offer unparalleled experiences in pristine nature, where conditions are excellent for Northern Lights viewing, ski touring, snowmobiling, hiking, cross-country skiing, and a variety of winter recreational activities.

Growth opportunities and infrastructure utilization: There are significant growth opportunities, with the potential for better utilization of infrastructure such as accommodation and transportation during the winter.

Development project: Vestfjarðastofa has initiated a project to develop tourism in the region, focusing on extending the travel season and winter tourism.

Cruise ships

  • Record number of cruise ships: In 2023, well over 200 cruise ships visited the Westfjords, with 189 docking in Ísafjarðarbær, underscoring the region's importance to the cruise ship industry.
  • Diverse destinations: The ships dock in numerous villages, including Ísafjarðarbær, Patreksfjörður, Hólmavík, Flateyri, Suðureyri, and others, opening new opportunities for the entire region.
  • Significant increase in passenger numbers: With over 100,000 cruise passengers, a unique opportunity arises to boost business and revenue for tourism operators.
  • Opportunities in product development for new day tours: The increased number of cruise ships offers opportunities to develop new and unique experiences showcasing the diverse culture, nature, and activities of the Westfjords.
  • Investments in services for tourists: The increased demand from cruise ship tourists offers investment opportunities in recreation, retail, cafes, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses, enhancing service and the experience for tourists.

Westfjords' Local Delicacies

Culinary Experiences

  • Local sourcing: Renowned for its access to some of the world's most bountiful fishing grounds, the Westfjords offer an endless supply of fresh seafood, including halibut, haddock, sole, and cod.
  • Diverse marine harvest: Beyond fish, the fjords yield seaweed, scallops, and mussels, with local farms producing salmon and trout.
  • Land-based delights: Celebrated for traditional Icelandic lamb, along with locally produced honey and innovative dairy products.
  • Investment opportunity: A gastronomic haven where the blend of fresh ingredients and a rich culinary tradition creates culinary landscape that unique and one of a kind.

Available Projects

  • Reykholar Seabaths: Eco-Friendly Wellness Destination
    • Eco-Friendly Seabaths
    • Hotel: 2,000 m², with potential for expansion.
    • Lagoon: 1,300 m² service building, 2,500 m² lagoon area 
  • Bíldudal Old Houses Reconstruction: A New Hotel Project
    • Historical Renovation: Transformation of old Bíldudal buildings into a 48-room hotel with event facilities for 80-100 people, complete with a kitchen and bar.
    • Integrated Townscape: The buildings will adjoin a planned wooden pier at the harbor, aiming to create a cohesive town image with other period buildings, forming an attractive historical downtown for tourists.
  • Hvítisandur Eco-Friendly Seabaths and Restaurant
    • Environmentally friendly sea baths and a restaurant Önundarfjörður.
    • Accommodates 160 guests at the sea baths and seating for 50 people in the restaurant. 
  • Lifestyle Hotel Hólmavík
    • 4-Star Lifestyle Hotel: 
    • Design Ethos: The hotel design embodies the spirit of Strandir,  folklore and sorcery.
    • Amenities: Proposed 62 rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
    • Sustainability: Focus on environmental construction. 
  • Ósvör maritime museum Bolungarvik
    • Service center Ósvör maritime museum 
    • New center features:
      • Size 200 m2  house.
      • Capacity: Designed for 80 visitors at a time.
    • s.

Contact a local expert

Contact a local expert

Contact a local expert

Contact a local expert

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