Driving in West Iceland is one of the best ways to experience the country’s wild beauty—but it also means spending time on remote roads, gravel tracks, and in fast-changing weather. With a bit of preparation, those drives become part of the adventure rather than a source of stress. Here are practical tips for navigating remote roads in West Iceland, along with how Ourhotels.is can help you plan safe, comfortable stops along the way.
Remote roads in Iceland can change quickly from smooth tarmac to loose gravel, and it’s common to encounter blind hills, single-lane bridges, and narrow passes. Before you set off, always check road conditions and weather forecasts. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) provides up-to-date information on closures, ice, and wind warnings. In winter and shoulder seasons, this step is essential—roads that look fine on a map can be impassable in reality.
Choosing the right vehicle is just as important. If your route includes F-roads (mountain roads) or highland tracks, a 4×4 is mandatory, but even on coastal and inland routes in West Iceland, extra clearance and good tires make a big difference. Gravel roads are common in the Borgarfjörður region, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and in the Westfjords. Drive more slowly than you would on paved roads, keep a firm but relaxed grip on the wheel, and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering.
One of the best ways to break up long drives is to plan your route around comfortable, well-located accommodation. Ourhotels.is offers a small collection of inns that are perfectly placed for exploring remote areas while still giving you a warm bed, hot shower, and local advice at the end of the day.
If you’re heading north from Reykjavík into the Borgarfjörður region, Hvítá Inn is an ideal first stop. Located close to Borgarnes, it sits within easy reach of waterfalls, lava fields, and quiet country roads that lead into the interior. Staying here allows you to explore the area at a relaxed pace rather than rushing through. You can set out early on quieter roads, ask the staff about current conditions, and adjust your plans if the weather shifts. After a day of driving, returning to a cozy inn instead of pushing on tired makes your journey safer and more enjoyable.
From Borgarfjörður, many travelers continue toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where the scenery becomes even more dramatic. The Stykkishólmur Inn, part of Ourhotels.is, is a great base for this region. Stykkishólmur itself is a charming harbor town, but it’s also a gateway to more remote stretches of coastline and mountain roads. Here, you can park the car for a while, explore on foot, or take shorter day trips by road without having to pack up every morning. That flexibility is invaluable when the weather changes—if strong winds or heavy rain roll in, you can simply adjust your driving plans and enjoy the town instead.
For those continuing into the Westfjords, Ísafjörður Inn offers a comfortable landing point after some of Iceland’s most spectacular but demanding drives. The Westfjords are known for steep mountain passes, narrow coastal roads, and quickly changing conditions, especially outside of summer. Having a reliable place to stay in Ísafjörður means you can time your drives for daylight and better weather windows, rather than feeling pressured to push on late into the evening. Staff can share local insights on which routes are currently in the best shape and which viewpoints are worth the detour.
No matter where you’re headed, a few universal tips will make remote driving in Iceland smoother. Keep your fuel tank topped up; distances between stations can be long, especially in the Westfjords. Carry water, snacks, and warm layers in the car, even in summer. Mobile coverage is generally good along main routes but can be patchy in more isolated areas, so download offline maps and save your accommodation details in advance. When you book through Ourhotels.is, you know exactly where your next stop is, which helps you plan realistic driving times and avoid rushing.
On gravel and remote roads, always drive at a speed that matches the conditions, not the speed limit. Watch for sheep and other animals near the roadside, particularly in summer. When you encounter single-lane bridges or narrow sections, slow down and be prepared to yield. If you’re unsure about a road—because of snow, ice, or steep grades—turn back or choose an alternative route. Iceland’s landscapes will still be there tomorrow; your safety comes first.
Staying at Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes, The Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn through Ourhotels.is gives you a natural rhythm to your journey: explore, drive, rest, repeat. Each inn offers a comfortable base close to nature, with staff who understand local roads and conditions. That combination of local knowledge and thoughtful planning turns remote driving from a challenge into a highlight of your trip.
By checking conditions, choosing sensible routes, and planning your overnights with Ourhotels.is, you can enjoy the freedom of Iceland’s remote roads with confidence—taking your time, stopping for photos, and arriving at each inn ready to relax and plan the next day’s adventure.
