Arriving in Bíldudalur 

Bíldudalur sits on the southern shore of Arnarfjörður, reached via Route 63, which branches off the main Westfjords highway Route 60. Most visitors arrive by car, driving north from the Snæfellsnes area or Route 1 via Búðardalur and then following Route 60 through the Westfjords. The mountain roads on Route 60 — particularly Dynjandisheiði and Hrafnseyrarheiði — can be closed in winter, so always check road.is before setting out.

Bíldudalur Airport (BIU) is located about 5 km south-east of the village and served by Norlandair, which operates scheduled flights six days a week between Bíldudalur and Reykjavík Domestic Airport — a flight of around 35–40 minutes. With a Hertz rental car collected at or near the airport, you can be on the road and exploring Arnarfjörður and the southern Westfjords within minutes of landing.

The fly-bus service also connects Bíldudalur Airport with nearby Talknafjörður and Patreksfjordur, making the airport a convenient hub for the southern Westfjords even if your accommodation is in a neighbouring village.

Weather Conditions for Driving in Bíldudalur

The Westfjords are known for some of the most changeable weather in Iceland, and Bíldudalur’s position on the sheltered shores of Arnarfjörður gives it a comparatively mild microclimate — it has a reputation as the “good-weather capital” of the Westfjords. That said, conditions can still shift quickly, with rain, fog and strong winds arriving at short notice. Mountain passes on Route 60 above the village can be snowy and treacherous in winter, and some are closed seasonally. Always check vedur.is and road.is before setting out.

• • Summer (June–August): Bíldudalur’s sheltered position makes summer the most pleasant driving season. Expect long daylight hours, mild temperatures and generally calmer conditions than elsewhere in the Westfjords. Light rain and sea mist are still possible on any day. Routes to Dynjandi waterfall and onwards to Ísafjörður via Route 60 are fully open and accessible.

• • Autumn (September–October): Weather becomes more unpredictable, with stronger winds and heavier rain. Northern lights appear on clear nights, but low cloud and mist are frequent over the fjords. Check road.is before heading over the mountain passes above Bíldudalur.

• • Winter (November–March): Snow, ice and strong winds are common on the mountain roads above Bíldudalur. The passes Dynjandisheiði and Hrafnseyrarheiði on Route 60 can close completely. Drive slowly, allow extra time and always check vedur.is and road.is before any mountain drive. Winter tyres are standard on all Hertz Iceland rental cars in season.

• • Spring (April–May): Conditions begin to improve but remain variable. Snow can still fall on the mountain passes above Bíldudalur in April. Watch for slippery patches on shaded road sections and be prepared for sudden changes as milder weather returns to the fjord.

• • Always check road.is for live road conditions and vedur.is for weather forecasts before driving longer distances from Bíldudalur, especially heading over the mountain passes on Route 60 or Route 63 in the off-season.

Top Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland

• • Check Your Driving Licence Before You Arrive: Most international licences are valid in Iceland. However, if yours isn’t in Latin script, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Sort this before you fly – you won’t get far with a car rental in Bíldudalur without the right documentation.

• • F-Roads Require a 4×4, No Exceptions: Planning to explore remote parts of the Westfjords or venture off the main routes? F-roads are restricted to 4×4 vehicles and are often closed until June or July. Always check with locals or the rental office for live conditions before heading out.

• • Know the Speed Limits: Fines are steep, and cameras are common. Stick to 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved highways. Getting a fine will put a damper on exploring the sights and attractions around Bíldudalur and the Westfjords.

• • Headlights On at All Times:  It’s a legal requirement to drive with headlights on 24/7 in Iceland, year-round. Most rental cars handle this automatically, but always double-check at pickup.

• • Off-Road Driving is Illegal: The Westfjords’ landscapes are dramatic and often tempting to explore off-road, but driving off designated roads is strictly prohibited across all of Iceland and carries heavy fines. Stay on marked roads and designated pull-offs at all times.

• • Watch for Single-Lane Bridges, Blind Hills & Sheep: Icelandic roads have quirks that catch foreign drivers off guard. Narrow single-lane bridges, steep blind hilltops, and sheep freely crossing rural roads are common sights on Route 60, Route 63 and the smaller roads around Bíldudalur. Slow down and stay alert, especially on the mountain passes.

• • Never Let Your Fuel Run Low: Fuel stations are sparse in the Westfjords. Once you leave Bíldudalur, there can be long stretches without a pump. Fill up in Bíldudalur or nearby Patreksfjordur before any longer drive — don’t wait for the warning light.

What to Wear When Exploring Bíldudalur

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and Bíldudalur’s sheltered fjord position doesn’t make it immune to rain, sea mist and sudden wind shifts. Once you’ve picked up your Hertz car rental in Bíldudalur, keep a waterproof jacket and a warm mid-layer within easy reach at all times. Even on a bright summer’s day, conditions at the top of the mountain passes above the village can feel quite different to the sheltered shore below.

If you’re visiting Bíldudalur in winter, pack thermal layers, gloves, a warm hat and a windproof outer shell as a minimum. Temperatures in the Westfjords regularly drop below freezing from November through March, and wind chill near the fjord can make it feel considerably colder. Waterproof, insulated footwear is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to hike or walk along the shores of Arnarfjörður.

In summer, lightweight layers that you can add or remove throughout the day work best. Mornings and evenings in the fjord can still be chilly even in July, so a mid-layer and windproof jacket should always be in your bag even if you set out in sunshine.

If you plan to visit Dynjandi waterfall and take the walking trail up to the falls, sturdy waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended. The path involves uneven terrain and can be wet. Wear warm, moisture-wicking base layers and pack a windproof outer layer for the exposed viewpoints along the trail.

Parking Information

Parking in Bíldudalur is simple and stress-free. The village is small, and free street parking is available throughout the village centre with no meters, paid zones or time restrictions to worry about. Most places you want to visit on foot are within easy walking distance of wherever you park.

Bíldudalur Village Centre

Free street parking is available near the harbour, the Sea Monster Museum and the village store. There are no paid parking zones anywhere in the village, making it easy to park and explore on foot at your own pace.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Dynjandi has a large, free car park directly off Route 60, approximately 65 km north-east of Bíldudalur via Route 63 and Route 60. The car park is suitable for all vehicle types including larger 4×4s. From the car park, a well-maintained walking path leads uphill past a series of smaller waterfalls to the main Dynjandi falls, which stand 100 metres tall. Allow 1–1.5 hours for the round trip.

Arnarfjörður Fjord Viewpoints

Along Route 63 between Bíldudalur and the Route 60 junction, there are several informal pull-offs and viewpoints where you can stop safely to take in the fjord scenery. There are no formal car parks or entrance fees at these points — simply use designated pull-off areas and take care not to block road access.

General tip: Bíldudalur has no complex parking systems. Parking is free and informal throughout the village. Be mindful of private land, farm access gates and any marked restrictions when pulling off the road near scenic viewpoints on the surrounding routes.

Electric Car Rental in Bíldudalur

Electric car rental is an increasingly popular choice for exploring the Westfjords, and Bíldudalur has charging facilities in the village itself. Whether you are picking up a rental car in Bíldudalur or arriving by road, charging options are available locally before you head out on longer Westfjords routes.

Charging in Bíldudalur

Bíldudalur has public charging options available in the village:

Vesturbyggð – Tesla charger – 3 Hafnarbraut, Bíldudalur. A public charger managed by the municipality, suitable for Tesla and compatible EVs. Check the Orkan network or ChargePoint apps for current availability and additional charging points in the area.

Orkan – Bíldudalur. A self-service fuel and charging station in the village. The Orkan network focuses on fast EV charging and accepts payment via the Orkan app. Always plan your next charge before heading out on the longer roads through the Westfjords, as charging options between villages can be very limited.

Key Roads & Travel Routes

Bíldudalur sits on Route 63, which branches off Route 60 — the main Westfjords highway (Vestfjarðavegur). With a Hertz rental car in Bíldudalur, you can follow Route 63 east towards Route 60 and continue north to Dynjandi waterfall and Ísafjörður, or head south towards Patreksfjordur, Brímnes and the Brjánslækur ferry.

Key Roads

• • Route 60 – Vestfjarðavegur (The Westfjords Highway): The main highway running through the Westfjords, connecting Bíldudalur via Route 63 northwards towards Dynjandi, Djúpivogur and Ísafjörður, and southwards towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Route 1. A mix of paved and some gravel sections; mountain passes can be closed in winter.

• • Route 63 – Arnarfjörður road: Runs along the southern shore of Arnarfjörður, connecting Bíldudalur with Route 60 to the east. Mostly paved with some gravel sections. This is the main road in and out of Bíldudalur and the route to Dynjandi.

• • Route 619 – Ketildalavegur: A scenic side road branching off near Bíldudalur, offering access to the wider valley and countryside above the village. Worth exploring as a short detour if conditions allow.

• • Route 60 north via Dynjandisheiði and Hrafnseyrarheiði: Heading north from the Route 63 junction, Route 60 climbs over dramatic mountain passes before reaching Dynjandi waterfall and continuing to Ísafjörður. These passes can be steep, narrow and icy, and are closed in winter. Check road.is before attempting.

Getting from Bíldudalur to Dynjandi Waterfall

Approximately 65 km north-east via Route 63 and Route 60, usually around 1–1.5 hours depending on conditions and how long you stop at viewpoints. One of the most rewarding day trips from Bíldudalur, winding through dramatic fjord and mountain scenery.

• • From Bíldudalur village, take Route 63 east along the fjord

• • Continue east on Route 63 until it meets Route 60 at the junction

• • Turn left (north) onto Route 60 and continue for approximately 30–35 km over the mountain passes

• • Follow signs for Dynjandi; the car park is directly off Route 60 and is clearly signposted

Getting from Bíldudalur to Ísafjörður

Approximately 110–130 km north via Route 63 and Route 60, usually around 2–3 hours depending on conditions. The road climbs over dramatic mountain passes before dropping into the fjords above Ísafjörður. Allow extra time in shoulder seasons and check road.is before setting out.

• • From Bíldudalur, take Route 63 east along Arnarfjörður

• • At the junction, turn left (north) onto Route 60 towards Dynjandi and Ísafjörður

• • Continue north on Route 60 over the mountain passes (check pass conditions on road.is in advance)

• • Follow signs for Ísafjörður; the town centre is accessible via the Vestfjarðagöng tunnel or by continuing on Route 60

Getting from Bíldudalur to Patreksfjordur

Approximately 15 km south via Route 63, usually around 20–25 minutes. A straightforward drive along the fjord to the nearest larger town in the area.

• • From Bíldudalur, take Route 63 south along the fjord

• • Continue south on Route 63 for approximately 15 km to Patreksfjordur town centre

Getting from Bíldudalur to Reykjavík

Approximately 380–420 km south via Route 60 and Route 1, usually around 4.5–6 hours depending on conditions and stops. Plan fuel stops along the way; stations can be widely spaced on Route 60 and the southern stretch of Route 1.

• • From Bíldudalur, take Route 63 east to the Route 60 junction

• • Turn right (south) onto Route 60 and continue towards Búðardalur and Route 1

• • At Búðardalur, join Route 1 heading south/east towards Reykjavík; follow signs for the capital via Borgarnes and the Hvalsfjörður tunnel

Getting from Bíldudalur to Brjánslækur Ferry Terminal

Approximately 65–70 km south via Route 63, usually around 1–1.5 hours. Brjánslækur is the southern Westfjords ferry terminal for the Baldur ferry to Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula — a useful connection for those doing a circular route without backtracking on Route 60.

• • From Bíldudalur, take Route 63 south and then follow Route 60 south via Flokaldúnur towards the coast

• • Follow signs for Brjánslækur; the ferry terminal is at the end of Route 60 on the southern shore of the Westfjords

• • Check the Baldur ferry timetable (seatours.is) before you go, as the ferry only runs a few times per day

Getting from Bíldudalur to Tálknafjörður

Approximately 20 km south via Route 63, usually around 25–30 minutes. Tálknafjörður is a small village on the next fjord south of Arnarfjörður and is part of the same Vesturbyggð municipality as Bíldudalur.

• • From Bíldudalur, take Route 63 south along the fjord

• • Continue south on Route 63 for approximately 20 km; follow signs for Tálknafjörður village

Driving Tips

• • Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas like Bíldudalur village, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural highways including Route 60 and Route 63. Always follow posted signs as limits can change without much warning.

• • Westfjords road driving: Route 60 and Route 63 are the main routes around Bíldudalur. They are paved in most sections but include some gravel stretches and mountain passes that require extra care. Distances between villages are significant — keep your speed sensible and your fuel tank topped up.

• • Winter awareness: In and around Bíldudalur in winter, watch for snow and ice on the mountain passes above the village, particularly Dynjandisheiði and Hrafnseyrarheiði on Route 60. These passes can close completely in bad weather. Winter tyres are standard on all rental cars in season.

• • Single-lane bridges: Common on Route 60, Route 63 and on side roads around Bíldudalur. Slow down well in advance, yield to oncoming traffic according to the priority signs, and never try to race through.

• • Gravel roads and track pull-offs: Some side roads near viewpoints, farms and fjord shores around Bíldudalur are gravel or unsurfaced. Reduce speed, keep both hands on the wheel and watch for loose stones.

• • Lights: Keep headlights on at all times, day and night, as required by Icelandic law. Most rental cars handle this automatically.

• • Weather checks: Always check vedur.is for weather forecasts and road.is for live road conditions before any longer drive from Bíldudalur, especially before heading over the mountain passes on Route 60 or Route 63 in the off-season.

Traffic Rules in Bíldudalur

Bíldudalur is a small and easy village to drive through, with straightforward road markings and minimal traffic even in peak season. The same national rules apply here as across all of Iceland: drive on the right, wear seat belts in all seats at all times, and use a legal hands-free setup for any phone calls. Headlights must remain on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

On the roads surrounding Bíldudalur, be particularly alert at pedestrian crossings near the harbour and village centre, and slow down when driving through any residential streets. On Route 63 and Route 60 outside the village, watch for sheep crossing the road freely in summer, slow-moving farm vehicles and cyclists, especially during the warmer months. Off-road driving is strictly illegal across all of Iceland and carries heavy fines — stay on marked roads and designated pull-offs at all times.

Road Conditions in and around Bíldudalur

Route 63 through Bíldudalur and the main Route 60 in the Westfjords are paved and open year-round, but conditions on these roads can vary significantly by season. The mountain terrain means snow, ice and strong winds are real hazards from autumn through spring, and the passes above the village can close completely in severe weather.

The mountain passes north of Bíldudalur on Route 60 can be particularly treacherous in bad weather. Always check road.is before setting out, allow more time than map estimates suggest in winter or shoulder season, and be prepared to adjust plans if conditions deteriorate.

Fueling Instructions

Bíldudalur has a fuel station in the village — Orkan on Hafnarbraut — where you can fill up before any longer drive. Once you leave Bíldudalur on Route 63 or head north on Route 60, fuel stations become very infrequent. There can be significant gaps before you reach the next pump. Always top up in Bíldudalur or in nearby Patreksfjordur before setting out on longer Westfjords drives.

Always top up in Bíldudalur before a long drive rather than waiting for the low-fuel warning. Most stations in Iceland are self-service and accept credit cards at the pump, but always carry a physical credit card with a PIN as a backup.

Rental policies with Hertz Iceland

Before you pick up the keys, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with Hertz Iceland’s rental policies to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Here are some essentials you need to know before hitting Iceland’s roads:

• • Driver’s Licence: A valid, physical licence held for a minimum of one year is required. Licences with English/Latin script are accepted as-is. If yours is in a non-English script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required.

• • Minimum Age: The minimum rental age is 20 for standard vehicle groups (economy, compact, intermediate). For most other vehicles, it’s 23, and select prestige/luxury models require drivers to be at least 25. There is no maximum age restriction.

• • Additional Driver: Extra drivers can be added for a small daily fee. Any undeclared driver who drives the vehicle automatically voids the insurance coverage.

• • Payment & Credit Card: A valid physical credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex) in the main driver’s name is required at pickup. Debit cards are accepted under specific conditions.

• • One-Way Rentals: One-way rentals are available but subject to a fee and location/vehicle availability restrictions.

• • Cancellation Policy: Prepaid bookings cancelled more than 3 days before pickup receive a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days or no-shows are non-refundable. Pay-on-arrival bookings can be cancelled up to the start of the rental.

Vehicle Options for a Car Rental in Bíldudalur

With Hertz car hire in Bíldudalur, you can match your vehicle to the way you plan to explore the Westfjords. Hertz offers practical options for everyday cruising, plus vehicles built for comfort, cargo and all-season travel in Iceland’s varied conditions.

• • Economy Small Rental Cars: A budget-friendly option for getting around Bíldudalur village and short drives on Route 63 along Arnarfjörður. Ideal for travellers keeping costs low on straightforward paved road itineraries.

• • Compact Rental Cars: Comfortable for couples or solo travellers with light luggage. A solid pick for day trips from Bíldudalur to Dynjandi and short fjord route drives.

• • Mid-size Rental Cars: More space for passengers and bags without feeling bulky. A good all-round choice for longer Westfjords drives from Bíldudalur to Ísafjörður or south to Reykjavík.

• • Full-size Rental Cars: Extra comfort for families or groups. Better for longer Ring Road journeys when you want more room to stretch out on multi-hour drives.

• • Automatic Rental Cars: Simple, familiar driving along Route 63 and Route 60. Helpful on longer Westfjords stretches and when road conditions change unexpectedly around Bíldudalur.

• • EV/PHEV Rental Cars: A quieter, greener way to explore the Westfjords. Bíldudalur has public charging options in the village, making EV travel practical with good planning before each leg of your journey.

• • Tesla Rental Cars: Premium electric driving with modern features and comfort. A strong option for Westfjords routes with reliable charging available in Bíldudalur and key stops along the way.

• • Luxury Rental Cars: Elevated comfort and refined interiors for a premium experience. Ideal for special occasions or travellers who want to arrive in style at every stop.

• • 4×4 Rental Cars: Built for Iceland’s tougher conditions, including the gravel sections and mountain passes on Route 60. Strongly recommended for off-peak travel, winter driving around Bíldudalur and any remote Westfjords exploration.

• • Passenger Vans/Minibus: Practical for larger groups and extra luggage. Keeps everyone together for day trips from Bíldudalur to Dynjandi, Patreksfjordur and other Westfjords destinations.

• • Campers and Motorhomes: Combines transport and accommodation in one. Ideal for multi-day Westfjords adventures, using Bíldudalur as a base or overnight stop before continuing further into the region.

• • Mini Vans: Useful for bulky luggage, equipment or business needs. Extra capacity without compromising driveability. Special D-type driver’s licence is needed for 9+ seat mini vans.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Bíldudalur?

The cost of renting a car in Bíldudalur varies depending on the vehicle type, rental duration and time of year. Prices are generally higher during peak summer months (June–August) and lower in the off-season, often significantly so.

June to August is the busiest period for travel in the Westfjords, and demand for rental cars in Bíldudalur rises sharply during these months — particularly for 4×4s suited to mountain pass driving. Daily rates during peak summer can be considerably higher than in the quieter winter months of November through March, when both prices and visitor numbers drop.

Bíldudalur is a very small village with a limited local rental fleet. This means that last-minute availability in summer can be very tight — if you don’t book in advance, you may find that 4×4s and larger vehicles are already fully booked, or that only a handful of options remain at significantly higher prices. To secure the best rate and the right vehicle for your Westfjords trip, booking as early as possible is strongly recommended, especially for travel between June and August.

Compulsory Equipment in your Hertz Rental Car

Safety on Iceland’s roads isn’t optional, and neither is the right equipment.

Every Hertz Iceland rental car is thoroughly inspected before pickup to ensure it meets all legal and safety standards. For winter rentals, all vehicles come fitted with winter tyres meeting Iceland’s legal tread depth requirements, with studded tyre options available upon request.

Whether you’re navigating icy city streets or venturing beyond Reykjavík, you can drive with confidence knowing your car is fully prepared before it reaches your hands.

Quick Guide to Bíldudalur (Restaurants, Hotels, Attractions)

Attractions in Bíldudalur

Icelandic Sea Monster Museum (Skrímlasetsíð): Hafnarbraut, Bíldudalur waterfront

Located right on the Bíldudalur waterfront, the Sea Monster Museum brings Arnarfjörður’s extraordinary tradition of monster folklore to life through eyewitness accounts, multimedia displays and interactive exhibits. Open mid-May to mid-September; worth a visit even if you are just passing through.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Route 60, approximately 65 km north-east of Bíldudalur via Route 63, Westfjords

Known as the jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi is a majestic tiered waterfall standing 100 metres tall. A clearly signposted free car park sits directly off Route 60, with a well-maintained walking path leading past a series of smaller cascades to the main falls. One of the most iconic natural sites in all of Iceland and an unmissable day trip from Bíldudalur.

Arnarfjörður Fjord & Bíldudalur Harbour

Arnarfjörður is one of the longest and most scenic fjords in the Westfjords, providing a stunning backdrop to Bíldudalur village. The harbour area is a pleasant spot for a walk, and the views across the fjord — especially at sunset — are among the most memorable in the region. The fjord is also famous as one of Iceland’s most prolific sea monster hotspots according to local folklore.

Things to do in Bíldudalur

• • Visit the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum – Learn about the rich folklore of sea monster sightings in Arnarfjörður through eyewitness accounts, interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. Open mid-May to mid-September.

• • Day trip to Dynjandi Waterfall – Drive the scenic Route 63 east and then north on Route 60 to reach one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. Allow 1–1.5 hours for the walk up to the main falls and back.

• • Walk around Arnarfjörður – Stroll along the harbour front and fjordside paths for sweeping views across the water, particularly beautiful at sunset. Keep an eye on the fjord — legend has it these waters are home to more sea monster sightings than anywhere else in Iceland.

• • Photograph Arnarfjörður from the hillside viewpoints – Drive up the winding roads above Bíldudalur for sweeping panoramic views over the fjord, especially stunning at golden hour when the water turns silver and the mountain walls glow.

• • Take a boat trip on Arnarfjörður – Local operators occasionally offer small-boat tours of the fjord, giving a unique perspective of the steep valley walls and a chance to spot seabirds, seals, and the occasional whale in these rich western fjord waters.

• • Northern lights watching (September–April) – The Westfjords’ remote location and minimal light pollution make Bíldudalur an excellent spot for aurora viewing. Drive a short distance from the village along the fjord road and let your eyes adjust to the darkness for the best displays.

• • Hike in Seljalandsdalur valley – A short drive from Bíldudalur, this hidden valley offers gentle hiking trails through birch woodland and past cascading streams, with dramatic mountain scenery typical of the Westfjords’ interior landscapes.

Shopping in Bíldudalur

• • Vegamót convenience store: The main local shop in Bíldudalur for everyday groceries, snacks, drinks and basic supplies. Stock up here before heading out into the Westfjords, as options become very limited on the surrounding mountain roads.

• • Bíldudalur swimming pool and community centre: The local pool is a good place to warm up after a cold day of exploring, and the community centre occasionally stocks locally made products and crafts from Westfjords artisans.

• • Fuel up at the local petrol station: Bíldudalur has a self-service petrol station where you can fill up your tank before heading into the more remote parts of the Westfjords. Services and supplies thin out quickly once you leave the village, so don’t wait too long to top up.

Frequently Asked Questions – Bíldudalur Car Rental

• • Do I need a rental car in Bíldudalur?
    Yes, having a rental car in Bíldudalur is essential. The village has no public transport links, and most of the area’s highlights — Dynjandi waterfall, the Sea Monster Museum, the scenic Arnarfjörður shoreline and the surrounding mountain passes — are only reachable by car. A rental gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and adapt quickly if the weather changes, which is common in the Westfjords.

• • What do I need to rent a car in Bíldudalur?
    To complete your car rental booking in Bíldudalur with Hertz, you’ll need a valid physical driving licence held for at least one year, a credit card in the main driver’s name, and a passport or national ID. If your licence is not in Latin script, you must also bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original licence.

• • Is car rental in Bíldudalur worth it?
    Absolutely. Bíldudalur is one of the Westfjords’ most rewarding bases for self-drive exploration. With your own rental car you can reach Dynjandi waterfall at dawn before any other visitors arrive, drive the spectacular Route 60 mountain passes, stop at Arnarfjörður viewpoints on a whim — all on your own timetable and without the cost of guided tours for every stop.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Start your Westfjords adventure immediately thanks to our Prime Location. You can pick up your vehicle directly from our desk at Bíldudalur Airport (BIU).

• • Can I drive outside Bíldudalur with a rental car?
    Of course. With a Hertz rental car in Bíldudalur you can drive freely throughout the Westfjords along Route 60 and the surrounding fjord roads — south towards Patreksfjörður and Bríðavík, or north towards Þingeyri and Ísafjarðardjúp. Just make sure to choose the right vehicle for your plans, top up fuel before long stretches, and always check road and weather conditions before setting off on mountain passes.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – The rugged Westfjords demand a dependable vehicle. With Hertz, you are guaranteed a car from our Newer, Reliable Fleet, meaning it is under 2 years old, has low mileage, and is expertly maintained.

• • Are there electric vehicle options available to rent in Bíldudalur?
    Hertz Iceland offers EV and hybrid options. However, Bíldudalur has limited EV charging infrastructure, with only a basic charging point available in the village. Given the remote mountain roads and long distances between settlements in the Westfjords, a petrol or hybrid vehicle is generally more practical for exploring this region. If you do bring an EV, plan your charging stops carefully before setting off.

• • What are the speed limits when driving around Bíldudalur?
    Speed limits in Iceland are 50 km/h in built-up areas like Bíldudalur village, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved highways. The roads around Bíldudalur include a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, and many mountain passes have lower recommended speeds. Speed cameras are in use and fines are steep, so always follow posted signs and reduce speed on gravel to protect your windscreen.

• • Can I reach the Ring Road from Bíldudalur?
    Bíldudalur is not on the Ring Road itself — the Westfjords sit off the main circuit. However, you can connect to the Ring Road via Route 60 heading south through the Westfjords to Bifröst, or by taking the Baldur ferry from Brjánslækjur to Stykkishólmur and continuing east. Either way, plan for a full day’s drive before reaching Ring Road connections.

• • What are the driving rules around Bíldudalur?
    The standard Icelandic rules apply: drive on the right, wear seat belts at all times, keep headlights on day and night and use only a hands-free setup for phone calls. Around Bíldudalur and the Westfjords, pay particular attention to narrow single-lane sections on fjord roads and mountain passes — slow down, use passing places and watch for oncoming traffic. Driving off marked roads is strictly prohibited to protect Iceland’s fragile landscapes.

• • Is fuel easy to find outside Bíldudalur?
    Bíldudalur has a self-service petrol station in the village where you should always top up before heading out. Once you leave Bíldudalur, fuel stations become very infrequent — particularly heading west towards Arnarfjörður or north on the mountain passes. The nearest larger fuel stop is in Patrekssfjörður. Always refuel in the village before setting off on longer drives, and never let your tank drop below half.

• • What is the best time of year to rent a car in Bíldudalur?
    June to August offers the most stable weather, long daylight hours and access to all roads and attractions around Bíldudalur. The mountain passes are typically clear of snow during this period, allowing full exploration of the Westfjords. September and May are quieter, with fewer visitors and often good weather. Winter driving (November–March) is only advisable with an experienced driver — mountain passes can close and conditions become severe, but it remains a rewarding option for well-prepared travellers seeking remote winter landscapes.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – No matter the season, when you explore the remote Westfjords you can drive with confidence knowing our comprehensive Nationwide Support and premium customer service are always just a phone call away.