Vatnsfjörður Nature Reserve: A Hidden Gem in Iceland's Westfjords
Geography and Landscape
Geologically, Vatnsfjörður shares the characteristics of the broader Westfjords region. Its bedrock is composed of ancient basalt, dating back 10-13 million years, sculpted by Ice Age glaciers into towering mountains that tise up to 700 meters .The reserve boasts geothermal springs, ideal for a soothing soak. These springs also provide heating for local homes and a swimming pool. The area offers numerous hiking opportunities for all levels of adventurers.
Flora and Fauna
Fauna in Vatnsfjörður is pretty diverse compared to Iceland, even though the number of animals is not so high. Around twenty types of birds live in the nature reserve area all year round. Mice, foxes, and minks can be found in the area. You could see seals in the ocean and both salmon and trout can be found in the rivers.
The flora is based on low rise rowan and birch wood which stretches from the coastline up to the mountains. The wood and the mudflats are the base for the diverse flora. You can also find a lot of Arctic blueberries in the area if you are travelling during August/September (for on-site consumption).
Cultural and Historical Significance
The history of the area is long, and according to written medieval records, the story of of Iceland begins exactly here. A man called Hrafna-Flóki is said to have been the one of the first persons to settle Iceland and he was the first person to name the country Iceland. In the book of settlement you can read the following text about Hrafna-Flóki. He said: "The weather here is rather cold." Then he hiked up the mountain and saw a fjord full of ice and icebergs. That's why he named the country Iceland.
In Hörgsnes there is a cave called Gíslahellir (e. Gísli's cave) where it is believed that Gísli Súrsson, the main character from the Icelandic saga Gísla saga Súrssonar hid in. All around the fjord there are many walking routes to neighbouring areas and ancient cairns are indeed the sign of that.From the Nature Reserve, you can reach the breathtaking Látrabjarg cliffs, the picturesque Selárdalur valley, or the vibrant town of Ísafjörður in just one and a half hours by car. The majestic Dynjandi waterfall is a mere 30-minute drive away, while a one-hour sail from Brjánslækur will take you to the serene Flatey Island.
Surtarbrandsgil (Lignite Canyon)
Visit The Environment Agency of Iceland’s exhibition on the nature reserve Surtarbrandsgil. Its in the old priest’s lodgings in Brjánslækur, open daily in the summer. Entrance is free for everyone. In relation to the exhibitions opening hours, hikes to the canyon led by a land ranger are available during these times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 13:00.
Please note that hiking up the canyon is prohibited unless accompanied by a land ranger. For further information, call 822-4080 or 831-9675.
When visiting the nature reserve keep these things in mind:
- Respect the area and nature
- Show consideration to birds during nesting season
- Leave nothing behind and take all trash with you out of the area
- Overnight stays are prohibited outside organized campsites
- Driving off roads and unmarked tracks are prohibited
- Do not damage vegetation, disturb wildlife, or harm geological formations or other relics.
- Berry picking, other than for on-site consumption, as well as hunting birds and fishing are prohibited without permission
