Iceland’s wild weather is part of what makes the country so unforgettable—but it also deserves respect. Storms here can be powerful, fast‑moving, and very different from what many visitors are used to. With a bit of preparation and the right base, you can stay safe, comfortable, and still enjoy your trip, even when the wind howls outside.
At Ourhotels.is, safety and comfort go hand in hand. Our locations in West and Northwest Iceland—Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes), Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords—are all well‑placed, cozy bases for riding out rough weather while still experiencing the magic of Iceland in every season.
Storms in Iceland often bring strong winds, heavy rain or snow, and rapidly changing road conditions. Before heading out, always check the official weather forecast at vedur.is and road conditions at road.is. These two sites are essential for safe travel in Iceland and are updated frequently. If a storm warning is in place, it’s often wiser to adjust your plans, explore locally, or simply enjoy a relaxing day indoors.
Staying in the Borgarfjörður area, Hvítá Inn is a great example of a safe, central base. Located close to Borgarnes and within reach of popular sights like Hraunfossar and Deildartunguhver, it allows you to explore on calmer days and retreat quickly when the weather turns. If conditions worsen, you can settle in with a warm drink, enjoy the views over the surrounding countryside, and wait for the skies to clear. Our staff can help you interpret weather alerts, suggest safe activities, and advise whether it’s a good idea to drive or stay put.
On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Stykkishólmur Inn offers a sheltered harbor town atmosphere that feels especially cozy during storms. Stykkishólmur is known for its colorful houses, dramatic seascapes, and easy access to Snæfellsnes highlights when the weather allows. When strong winds or heavy seas roll in, it’s the perfect time to slow down: explore the town on foot if it’s safe, visit local museums, or simply relax at the inn. Ourhotels.is staff can help you plan flexible day trips around the peninsula, choosing the safest routes and best timing based on the latest forecasts.
Farther north, Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords places you in one of Iceland’s most dramatic regions—where weather can be especially intense in winter. Here, respecting storm warnings is crucial. When conditions are good, you can explore fjords, mountains, and small fishing villages; when a storm hits, Ísafjörður itself becomes a charming, walkable town to enjoy from the safety of solid ground. Our team at Ísafjörður Inn can help you understand local conditions, from avalanche warnings to road closures, and suggest indoor activities, local restaurants, and cultural experiences to enjoy until it’s safe to venture farther.
No matter which Ourhotels.is property you choose, a few simple habits will help you stay safe during Icelandic storms:
– Always check vedur.is and road.is before driving, and recheck during the day.
– Follow local advice from your hotel staff; they know the area and how storms typically behave.
– Keep your travel plans flexible—build in extra time so you can wait out bad weather.
– If you’re driving, rent a suitable vehicle for the season and conditions, and never attempt closed or impassable roads.
– Pack warm, waterproof layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes so you can move safely even in sudden wind or snow.
Storm days don’t have to ruin your trip. They can become some of your most memorable moments in Iceland: watching the clouds race over Borgarfjörður from Hvítá Inn, listening to the wind sweep across the harbor in Stykkishólmur, or feeling the deep calm of the Westfjords from Ísafjörður Inn. With Ourhotels.is as your base, you can experience Iceland’s powerful nature up close—safely, comfortably, and with local support whenever you need it.
