Choose your lake ride that wake

Discovering Iceland’s Hidden Gem: A Wakeboarding and Hiking Day Trip in the Westfjords

This tour offers a pretty unique angle on Iceland. Instead of the usual waterfalls or glaciers, you’ll spend a day exploring a remote alpine lake called Vatnadalsvatn, near the tiny fishing village of Suðureyri. The adventure combines an invigorating moderate hike with the thrill of wakeboarding in crystal-clear waters, all led by guides who know the area inside out. It’s not your typical Iceland experience, but that’s part of its charm.

What I find particularly appealing are two things. First, the personal touch — this is a private activity, so your small group gets undivided attention, and the guides (Justas and Orla) are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Second, the spectacular scenery — from the scenic van ride along rugged roads to the hike up to the lake, every moment offers stunning views that make the effort worthwhile. Also, the option to snorkel in Vatnadalsvatn adds a whole other dimension, giving you a peek beneath the surface in waters acclaimed for their clarity.

A potential consideration is the physical effort involved. You’ll cover 2-3 km on a trail with some moderate difficulty, carrying gear and a backpack. You should be comfortable with hiking and have some swimming ability. If you’re not used to physical activity or have mobility issues, this might be a tad demanding. But for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, it’s a manageable and rewarding day.

Key points / Takeaways

• Exclusive experience: This is a private tour, ensuring personalized attention and a flexible itinerary.
• Versatile activities: Combining hiking, wakeboarding, and snorkeling makes for a full, engaging day.
• Guides are stars: The reviews highlight Justas and Orla for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.
• Spectacular scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Westfjords, pristine lake waters, and rugged landscapes.
• Quality gear provided: The tour supplies wakeboarding gear, snorkeling equipment, and safety instructions, making it accessible for beginners.
• Value for money: For $360 per person, you get a full day of adventure, professional guidance, and multiple activities in a remote setting.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Itinerary: From Start to Splash

Meeting at NettóHafnarstræti 9-13, Ísafjörður at 9:00 am sets the stage for an adventure that’s both off the beaten path and thoroughly immersive. The guide will brief you on the plan for the day, share stories of the area, and provide the necessary gear. The drive to the trailhead is itself a highlight, taking you along scenic routes that showcase Iceland’s rugged beauty — expect dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and perhaps a glimpse of local wildlife.

The hike, about one hour each way, is designed to be manageable but requires some physical stamina. You’ll be carrying a backpack weighing 15-20 kg, which includes gear, snacks, and possibly your camera. The trail’s moderate difficulty offers enough challenge to feel like a proper adventure but won’t exhaust most hikers.

Once at Vatnadalsvatn, the real fun begins. The guides will set up the towing gear for wakeboarding, a sport that’s surprisingly accessible thanks to the clear instructions and patience of the guides. Many reviews emphasize how helpful Justas and Orla are, especially for first-timers. “Being my first time doing this sport was a bit tricky,” one reviewer said, but the guides helped them get up and ride.

Wakeboarding in a Remote Alpine Lake

Imagine wakeboarding in a serene mountain lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and untouched nature. It’s an experience that feels almost surreal — a perfect blend of adrenaline and tranquility. The lake’s calm, cold waters are ideal for beginners and seasoned riders alike. Each rider gets a chance to be pulled across the water one at a time, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

The reviews consistently praise the professionalism and enthusiasm of the guides. They’re not just there to set up gear but to share stories, offer tips, and ensure everyone feels comfortable. “Orla was a really great guide,” one reviewer shared, “and helped my partner get up and wakeboard for the first time.”

Snorkeling in Vatnadalsvatn

If you’re up for it, snorkeling gear is provided to explore beneath the lake’s crystal-clear surface. The water’s transparency is often mentioned as a highlight, providing a glimpse into the aquatic world beneath. This adds an element of discovery and adventure that pairs well with the wakeboarding excitement.

Hiking Down and Reflecting

After hours of activity and awe-inspiring scenery, you’ll hike back down to your van, often feeling energized and a bit proud of your accomplishments. The guides are happy to share stories about local folklore and life in the Westfjords, enriching the experience beyond just the physical adventure.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $360 per person, this tour offers a full day of varied activities in a stunning part of Iceland. While it’s not cheap, the price reflects the personalized service, professional guides, and all equipment provided. Compared to costly helicopter or helicopter-style excursions, this experience offers tangible adventure and authentic Icelandic scenery at a fair value.

The tour’s 8-hour duration is also notable — you get a well-paced day that includes transportation, hiking, wakeboarding, snorkeling, and ample time for photos and stories. Plus, the small-group setting enhances the quality of the experience, making it more memorable than a large bus tour.

Considerations

• The tour is weather-dependent; if poor weather cancels the activity, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• It’s suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable hiking with gear.
• Swimmers will appreciate the opportunity to snorkel, but those uncomfortable in water might prefer to skip that part.
• The gear has weight and height limits (up to 100 kg and 195 cm), so check your measurements.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits those looking for an active day in Iceland’s wild outdoors without the crowds of more popular tourist spots. If you’re comfortable with hiking, want to try wakeboarding, and enjoy scenic, off-the-beaten-path locations, you’ll love it. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate a personalized experience, as opposed to large tour buses.

It’s also ideal for those wanting to combine multiple activities into one day, making it a cost-effective way to see a remote corner of the country while enjoying different types of outdoor fun. The guides’ storytelling and local knowledge add a layer of cultural connection that elevates the trip beyond just the physical.

Best for:

• Active travelers who enjoy a mix of hiking and watersports
• Families or small groups seeking a tailored adventure
• Those interested in snorkeling or exploring pristine lakes
• Visitors looking for a memorable, off-the-path experience in the Westfjords

FAQs

Do I need to have wakeboarding experience?
No, previous wakeboarding experience isn’t necessary. Beginners are welcome, and guides are there to help you get up and ride.

What should I bring?
You should bring comfortable clothing suitable for hiking, your own swimming costume if you plan to snorkel, and personal items like sunscreen and water. The tour provides all the gear.

How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike is about 1 hour each way with moderate difficulty, carrying a 15-20 kg backpack. Good fitness helps, but the trail is manageable for most active travelers.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Snorkeling gear is available, but you need to be comfortable in water to enjoy this part. If not, you can relax and take photos or explore the surroundings.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, providing a more intimate adventure.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
If weather prevents the activity, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the activity?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from meeting at 9:00 am until you hike back down.

Is the cost worth it?
Given the variety of activities, the remote location, and the guides’ reputation, many find the price justified for a memorable, personalized adventure.

What makes this experience stand out?
The combination of breathtaking scenery, personalized guidance, and the novelty of wakeboarding in a remote lake makes this experience truly unique.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s Westfjords with a full day packed with outdoor fun. It’s perfect for active travelers craving authentic experiences away from crowds, especially those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and natural beauty. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery ensure that what you pay for is more than just a thrill — it’s a memory of Iceland’s wild, untouched side. If you’re looking for a day of adventure that combines physical activity, scenic landscapes, and a sense of accomplishment, this could very well be your highlight of the trip.