Top sight
Dynjandi Waterfall
A tiered wedding-cake waterfall, one of the most beautiful in Iceland.
Westfjords
Arnarfjörður: Eagle Fjord of the Westfjords
Known as the Eagle Fjord, Arnarfjordur is the second-largest fjord in the Westfjords, stretching 30km into remote wilderness. It holds the Dynjandi waterfall and the Sea Monster Museum in Bildudalur, and its landscape is among Iceland's most untouched.
Key Stop
Dynjandi
Accessible via Route 60 (Dynjandisheiði).
Arnarfjörður is often called the most beautiful fjord in the Westfjords. The landscape here feels big: the tiered Dynjandi waterfall dominates the fjord head, and sharp, pyramid-like mountains frame the sea. In local folklore, these waters belong to sea monsters.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Mountain passes to reach Arnarfjörður can close in winter. In summer, the gravel sections are manageable but require slower speeds.
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Culture
Sea Monsters
Visit the quirky and well-designed Sea Monster Museum in Bíldudalur.
Access
Mountain Pass
Requires driving over Dynjandisheiði, scenic but weather-dependent.
Wildlife
Arctic Foxes
The Westfjords host Iceland's largest arctic fox population, often spotted in the mountains.
Art
Selárdalur
Visit the abandoned farm where self-taught artist Samúel Jónsson created whimsical folk art sculptures.
Kayaking
Fjord Paddling
Sheltered waters are good for kayaking, with mountain reflections.
What to Expect
- Dynjandi waterfall cascading 100 meters in a wedding-cake formation
- Remote wilderness with minimal tourist infrastructure outside Bildudalur
- Arctic fox sightings in the surrounding mountains, especially at dawn and dusk
- Selárdalur folk art sculptures by self-taught artist Samúel Jónsson
- Sea monster folklore explored at the quirky museum in Bildudalur
- Sheltered kayaking waters reflecting pyramid-shaped mountain peaks
How to Get to Arnarfjörður
Driving from Reykjavik
The drive from Reykjavik to Arnarfjörður is approximately 380km (5-6 hours). Take Route 1 north, then Route 60 west through Búðardalur and over Dynjandisheiði pass. The mountain pass has wide views but can be difficult in poor weather.
Road Conditions
Route 60 over Dynjandisheiði pass is mostly paved but includes a high mountain section that can be snowy or foggy. Some coastal roads around the fjord are gravel. The pass may close temporarily in severe winter weather. Always check road.is before departure.
Best Time to Visit Arnarfjörður
Summer (June-August)
The ideal time to visit. Midnight sun provides 24-hour daylight, all roads are open, and Dynjandi is at full flow. Weather is mildest (8-15°C) and all services in Bíldudalur are operational.
Shoulder Season (May, Sept)
Fewer tourists and changeable weather. Some services may have reduced hours. Northern lights visible in September. Mountain pass can be unpredictable. Expect 4-10°C temperatures.
Winter (Oct-April)
Access is difficult: Dynjandisheiði pass may close for extended periods. Only 4-5 hours of daylight in December. Great for northern lights but limited services. Not recommended for first-time visitors.
Nearby Attractions
Dynjandi Waterfall
A 100m tiered cascade known as the Jewel of the Westfjords.
Sea Monster Museum
Quirky and well-designed museum in Bíldudalur exploring the region's sea monster folklore and sightings.
Selárdalur Art Farm
Remote abandoned farm with folk art sculptures and a replica of a Roman basilica by Samúel Jónsson.
Rauðasandur Beach
Red and golden sand beach on the southern Westfjords coast, about 90 minutes south.
Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs
Europe's largest bird cliff and westernmost point, home to millions of seabirds including puffins.
Planning help
Arnarfjörður FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.