Látrabjarg — Local services in Westfjords

Latrabjarg is about as far west as you can visit in Iceland. Yet even in this most remote location, you will find many tourists visiting to see the dramatic seaside cliffs which are home to vast numbers of nesting birds including the famous puffin bird which can be viewed fairly routinely here.

Latrabjarg is accessible by way of Route 612. There is a lighthouse and carpark at the end of the road. Here you can read up on information panels about the various different birdlife that can be viewed in abundance and check out the lighthouse if interested. However, most are likely immediately drawn to the puffins that frequent the cliffs including those just metres away from the lighthouse. We found them by the dozens there during our recent visit.

Additionally, we very much enjoyed walking around 2 km along the sea cliff trail that takes in endless dramatic cliff views, hundreds of thousands of birds including some puffins which you can practice picking out and finding with a handy pair of binoculars. This was a great trail, one we would gladly try to spend more time walking if we were able to visit the Westfjords again.

Note: There is no public toilet at the lighthouse and carpark at Latrabjarg. However, they have setup toilets (fee payment by contactless payment) at a separate stop a couple km back up the road. You may want to stop here first before proceeding to the end to view and spend time with...

If birdwatching is your passion, you have to come to this place at least once in your life between May and August. On the cliff side, there are all sorts of marine birds nesting: guillemots, razorbills, fulmars and of course puffins who are not shy. On low tide you can clearly spot seals too. It feels like being in a documentary. But West Iceland is so pristine and wild that you can obviously spot birds on the other side too, the one descending into a white sand beach. I spotted my first red necked loon in the little pond by the beach. And on the way to Latrabjarg while driving, I spotted a snow bunting. The shore before you reach Latrabjarg is a tern reproductive site, drive slowly! In Breidavik I spotted a red necked phalarope. This is pure paradise for birdwatching. Two things about the place: dogs are not allowed and don't go there if there's a forecast of strong wind. Wind in Iceland is brutal and can even capsize your vehicle or push you off the cliffs and on top of that on the road that leads to Latrabjarg there is a risk of ravines. Check vedur.is...

Látrabjarg is nothing short of a natural wonder. My recent visit left me in awe of the sheer beauty and majesty of this place. The towering cliffs, stretching endlessly along the western coast of Iceland, provide a backdrop like no other, overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean.

What truly makes Látrabjarg special is the incredible diversity of birdlife that calls these cliffs home. Watching puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds in their natural habitat is a rare and unforgettable experience for any nature enthusiast.

The sense of isolation and remoteness adds to the charm of Látrabjarg. While reaching this location requires some effort, the reward is worth every step. It's a place where you can truly connect with the raw beauty of Iceland's wilderness.

If you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply seeking a unique adventure, Látrabjarg should be high on your list of must-visit destinations. It's an enchanting place that will leave you with memories to cherish...