Iceland’s lava fields look otherworldly—endless black rock, soft green moss, and steam rising in the distance. They’re also among the country’s most fragile landscapes. If you’re staying with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland, you’re perfectly placed to explore these volcanic wonders responsibly, whether you’re based at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords.
Respecting Icelandic lava fields isn’t complicated, but it does require a bit of awareness. Here’s how to enjoy them fully while helping to protect them for future travelers.
Icelandic lava fields: beautiful, young, and fragile
Many of the lava fields you’ll see in West Iceland are geologically young. They’re still slowly being colonized by moss, tiny plants, and hardy lichens. That soft, bright-green moss that looks so inviting to walk or lie on can take decades—sometimes centuries—to grow back if damaged.
From Hvítá Inn, you’re close to the lava landscapes of Borgarfjörður and the inland highlands. Around Stykkishólmur Inn, you can easily reach the dramatic lava fields of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Guests at Ísafjörður Inn can explore the stark, rugged volcanic terrain of the Westfjords. In all of these places, the same simple rules apply.
Stay on marked paths and roads
The most important way to respect Icelandic lava fields is to stay on designated trails and roads:
– Do not drive off-road, even “just for a photo.” Tire tracks can scar lava and moss for decades. Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland and heavily fined.
– Follow marked hiking paths. Trails are placed to minimize impact on the most sensitive areas.
– If there’s no clear path, walk on durable surfaces like bare rock or gravel, not on moss or delicate vegetation.
If you’re unsure where it’s safe to walk near your accommodation, ask the staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn. They know the local terrain and can point you to scenic routes that are both beautiful and sustainable.
Don’t step on the moss
The moss that covers many lava fields is one of Iceland’s most iconic sights—and one of its most vulnerable:
– Moss cushions can be several decades old. A single footprint can crush them permanently.
– Once damaged, moss may not recover in your lifetime.
– Jumping, lying, or writing names in the moss for photos causes long-lasting scars.
It’s tempting to wander out into a mossy field for that perfect shot, but the most respectful choice is to admire it from the path. You’ll still get stunning photos, and you’ll leave no trace behind.
Leave rocks, lava, and plants where they are
Lava fields are not just empty rock—they’re living ecosystems and natural archives of Iceland’s volcanic history:
– Don’t take lava rocks, moss, or plants as souvenirs. Removing them slowly degrades the landscape.
– Avoid stacking rocks or building cairns. These can mislead hikers and disturb the natural look of the area.
– If you see loose stones, leave them where they are unless you’re on a clearly maintained path where moving a rock is necessary for safety.
If you want a keepsake, photos and memories are the best souvenirs. Many guests at Ourhotels.is also enjoy buying locally made crafts or artwork inspired by Icelandic nature instead of taking anything from the land itself.
Follow local guidance and seasonal rules
Conditions in Iceland change quickly, and some areas are more sensitive at certain times of year:
– Respect any closures or warning signs around lava fields. These may be in place to protect nesting birds, fragile ground, or areas recovering from damage.
– In winter, snow can hide cracks and unstable lava. Stick to marked winter trails and ask your hotel for up-to-date advice.
– Weather can turn lava fields into slippery, hazardous terrain. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.
The teams at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can help you plan day trips that match the season and weather, suggesting routes where you can safely enjoy lava landscapes without putting yourself—or the environment—at risk.
Be mindful with drones and photography
Iceland’s lava fields are incredibly photogenic, but responsible photography matters:
– Fly drones only where it’s allowed and always follow local regulations. Avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors.
– Don’t step off the path just to “improve” your angle. With a bit of creativity, you can capture dramatic shots from the trail.
– Avoid climbing on fragile lava formations for photos. Some lava is sharp, brittle, and unstable.
If you’re unsure about good, responsible photo spots near your Ourhotels.is stay, ask at reception. Staff often know viewpoints that are both safe and spectacular.
Pack out everything you bring in
Lava fields can feel wild and untouched—help keep them that way:
– Take all your trash with you, including tissues, food wrappers, and bottle caps.
– Don’t leave organic waste like fruit peels; they decompose slowly in Iceland’s cool climate and spoil the natural look.
– Use toilets before you head out. If you must go in nature, follow Leave No Trace principles and stay far from water sources.
All Ourhotels.is locations—Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn—provide waste bins and often local tips on where to find facilities along popular routes.
Choose responsible tours and activities
If you’d like a deeper experience of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, consider guided tours:
– Look for operators who clearly emphasize nature protection and follow Icelandic environmental rules.
– Ask how they minimize impact on lava fields and sensitive areas.
– Many tours from West Iceland focus on geology, history, and folklore, helping you understand why these landscapes are so important to protect.
Ourhotels.is staff can recommend trusted local guides from each inn, whether you’re exploring the lava tubes and waterfalls near Borgarfjörður, the dramatic coastlines of Snæfellsnes, or the remote wildness of the Westfjords.
Making your stay part of the solution
By choosing to stay with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland, you’re already supporting local communities that live alongside these lava fields every day. A few simple habits during your visit make a real difference:
– Plan your routes with local advice from Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn.
– Stay on paths, protect the moss, and leave everything as you found it.
– Share what you’ve learned with other travelers—respect is contagious.
Iceland’s lava fields are more than a backdrop for photos; they’re living, evolving landscapes that tell the story of fire, ice, and time. Treat them with care, and you’ll not only have a richer experience—you’ll help ensure that the next guests at Ourhotels.is can enjoy the same unspoiled beauty you did.
