Why You Should Visit West Iceland

Tuesday, 13th November 2018

Destination Specialist

Kirkjufell summer

Volcanic landscapes, glaciers, caves, geothermal spas and black sand beaches – all beyond the Golden Circle but still just 45 minutes from Reykjavik.

Whether you are a seasoned Golden Circle explorer or new to the Land of Fire and Ice, we think that it is time you consider adding the West of Iceland to your school’s trip wish list.

Not only does the west of Iceland take you off the tourist trail but it also allows your group to visit some of the most jaw dropping scenery and iconic sights of Iceland including Iceland’s most photographed mountain (Kirkufell), Iceland’s largest lava tube (The Cave Vidgelmir) and even tunnel inside Iceland’s second largest glacier (Langjokull aka Into the Glacier).

Did you know you can visit the West for free?

Join our Teacher Inspection Trip in May 2019 to experience Iceland’s hidden gems for yourself.

What will you see in the West...

iceland snaefellsnes arnarstapi rth

Arnarstapi

  • Visit this small fishing village and the surrounding coastline
  • Geographers will be fascinated by the extraordinary cliffs and basalt columns
krauma spa borgafjordur iceland kristjan maack

Krauma Baths

  • Take a dip in geothermally heated waters
  • Try the hot and cold tubs as well as their saunas and relaxation rooms
iceland west snaefellsjokull autumn rth

Snaefellsjokull

  • Snaefellsjokull is a glacier which sits on top of a strato volcano
  • Explore Snaefellsnes national park around the mountain
iceland snaefellsnes vidgelmir lava cave

Vidgelmir Cave

  • Witness the colours and dramatic rock formations on your tour
  • The Cave Vidgelmir is the largest lava cave in Iceland
glanni waterfall west iceland

Glanni

  • Cross the lava field to reach this stunning waterfall
  • Glanni is said to be home to trolls and elves so keep your eyes peeled!
iceland into the glacier kate muggleton

Into the Glacier

  • Jump into the 8 wheeler monster truck and journey over the glacier
  • Head into the Langjokull glacier itself through a series of man-made tunnels carved into the ice

One or two days in the West can be incorporated into a classic Golden Circle itinerary.

West Iceland has so much to offer. When combined with the Golden Circle you will really have covered some of the most well-known sights in Iceland as well as special activities exclusive to Discover the World Education. West Iceland can be a simple addition to your tried and tested South West itinerary or a perfect introduction to this special island.

View the full West Iceland Excursion Itinerary »

Or start your enquiry today with our experienced Iceland travel specialists.

Popular blog posts

Ten volcanoes you can visit with Discover the World Education

What are your favourite volcanoes? We have picked ten very different volcanoes you can visit with us, from the Azores to New Zealand.

Thursday, 16th March 2017

Destination Specialist

10 Air Travel Tips For Effortless School Trips

We asked former teachers and current group tour leaders for their advice on how to make your journey as smooth as possible, from Departures to Arrivals.

Wednesday, 14th February 2018

Destination Specialist

Experience Iceland – Classroom Ideas

How to use our new GIS video map - GIS Iceland

Thursday, 25th April 2019

Jo Coles

Why You Should Visit West Iceland

A day or two in the West fits in nicely to a 5 day itinerary including the Golden Circle highlights so you don’t have to choose between them.

Tuesday, 13th November 2018

Destination Specialist