A realistic ‘plan B’ day in Deildartunguhver when wind shuts down your original itinerary

March 5, 2026 · Travel Tips

photographer: Jan Brennenstuhl :

When the Wind Wins: Realistic Plan B in Deildartunguhver

So you woke up to gale-force gusts and the South Coast tour is off. No worries—Deildartunguhver and nearby gems offer a sheltered, relaxing day that turns a weather setback into a highlight. Nestle into the warmth of Iceland’s most powerful hot spring, explore lava tubes and waterfalls close by, and cap the evening with cozy comfort at Hvítá Inn via Ourhotels.is.

Morning: Soak and Savor

  • 7:30 AM: Slip on your swimsuit and head straight to Deildartunguhver’s thermal pools. The misty steam and calm pools feel like a hug from the earth.
  • 9:00 AM: Warm up further at Krauma Spa, just a 5-minute drive away. Enjoy geothermal baths and a barley steam sauna where you can watch the wind whip across the fields—still cozy inside.
  • Tip: Pack a microfiber towel, waterproof sandals, and a swimsuit; Krauma provides robes and towels if you prefer to travel light.

Midday: Discover Hidden Caves and Waterfalls

When the steam clears, stay mostly sheltered by venturing underground or close to cliffs.

  • Víðgelmir Lava Tube: One of Iceland’s largest lava caves. Guided tours last about 1 hour and take you through dramatic rock formations.
  • Hraunfossar & Barnafoss: These twin waterfalls spill through lava fields, and many viewing platforms have wind barriers. Spend 30–45 minutes here.
  • What to pack: Waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, and a good pair of gloves. A windproof layer makes all the difference when exploring outdoor gems.

Afternoon: Local Flavors and Warm Cafés

By lunchtime, wind-chill means it’s time for hearty soup and fresh brown bread. Pop into a local farm café near Reykholt—warm up with lamb stew and Icelandic rye bread baked in geothermal ovens.

If the wind really picks up, the nearby Settlement Center offers interactive exhibits about Snorri Sturluson and medieval Iceland—perfect for a cultural interlude indoors.

Evening: Rest Easy at Hvítá Inn

After a day of geothermal adventures, drive 20 minutes to Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður. Ourhotels.is has your back for simple, comfortable rooms—complete with soft beds, free Wi-Fi and homemade breakfast.

  • Relax in the lounge with panoramic views of the river valley.
  • Sample local beers on tap and freshly prepared fish dishes in the on-site bistro.
  • Unwind in the hotel’s reading nook or take an after-dinner stroll along the riverbank.

Plan the Perfect Weather-Proof Stay

  • How long: A full 8–10 hour day trip from Reykjavik or 1 night’s stay if you want to explore at a leisurely pace.
  • When to go: April–September for mild temperatures and extended daylight.
  • How to book: Secure your room at Hvítá Inn or Truck Inn via Ourhotels.is for the best rates and flexible cancellation.

Windy days don’t have to derail your Iceland adventure. Embrace geothermal escapes and cultural stops, then rest easy at one of our friendly inns. Ready for a weather-proof Icelandic getaway? Book your stay now through Ourhotels.is and turn every breeze into part of the journey!