✶ Field notes from people who live here — honest, local hotels in Iceland.
Field notes

Honest notes from people who live here.

Driving, weather, food, and what's actually open. Written by the team that runs the four hotels — and re-checked when conditions change.

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Topic
9 FEB

How to read Icelandic landscapes

Discover Iceland’s wild story written in rock, ice and water—from black basalt lava fields and U-shaped glacial valleys to fjords carved by…

4 FEB

How often should you refuel in Iceland?

Here’s a concise excerpt you can use: Exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes? Keep your tank at half at all times and top up…

19 FEB

How breakfast connects travelers

At Ourhotels.is properties—whether you’re watching the fjords wake at Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes or sipping coffee in the cozy dining room of…

5 MAR

Tipping and paying in Akureyri: card terminals, rounding up, and when cash is useful

Discover how easy it is to pay in Akureyri—from tapping your Visa or Mastercard almost anywhere to knowing when to carry a…

4 MAR

Storm-night plan: choosing sheltered campsites and the ‘wind direction’ trick

Camping Iceland’s wild Westfjords and West Iceland doesn’t mean surrendering to stormy nights. With a few savvy moves—pitching your tent behind low…

9 FEB

Why coffee culture is strong

Discover why a steaming cup of coffee is as quintessentially Icelandic as its glaciers and geysers. From Reykjavík’s bustling cafés to hidden…

10 MAR

Best Scenic Drives Near Ísafjörður

Discover Iceland’s dramatic Westfjords at your own pace—base yourself at the cosy Ísafjörður Inn (book via Ourhotels.is) and tackle three unforgettable drives:…

4 MAR

Eruption-area boundaries: how to avoid ‘lava curiosity’ traps and follow official hazard maps

Discover Iceland’s volcanic wonders without the risk: plan your journey using official hazard maps, steer clear of unstable lava fissures, and respect…

4 FEB

What “remote” really means in Iceland

Discover what “remote” truly means in Iceland—a land where winding roads slice through ancient lava fields, seabirds wheel against cliff faces, and…

5 MAR

How to handle pool etiquette at a local pool in Þórsmörk: showers, rules, and unspoken norms

After a day hiking Þórsmörk’s dramatic canyons and lush valleys, there’s no better way to unwind than soaking in the community’s geothermal…

11 MAR

How to Experience Iceland’s Northern Wilderness

Discover Iceland’s wild north with Ourhotels.is as your base—whether you choose the cozy Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords or the charming Hvítá…

19 FEB

Why every visit feels different

Discover the ever-changing magic of Westfjords & West Iceland, where each season unveils fresh adventures—from roaring spring waterfalls and 24-hour summer hikes…

11 MAR

Why the Westfjords Are Perfect for Iceland Nature Escapes

Discover Iceland’s wild Westfjords—towering fjords, cascading waterfalls and remote hiking trails—while cozying up at Ísafjörður Inn. From Arctic-fox spotting in Hornstrandir and…

4 MAR

Drone flight reality check for Akureyri: protected areas, seasonal closures, and ‘ask before you fly’

Akureyri’s stunning fjord vistas, snow-capped peaks and dancing Northern Lights make it a drone pilot’s paradise—but only if you play by the…

11 MAR

Exploring Iceland’s Arctic Fjord Villages

Discover the timeless charm of Iceland’s Arctic fjord villages on a 5–7-day adventure—spend 2–3 nights in each coastal hamlet, from kayak trips…

4 FEB

Why gravel roads are normal in Iceland

Iceland’s famous gravel roads aren’t just a means to get from A to B—they’re your ticket to remote waterfalls, hidden highland vistas,…

4 MAR

Photography in Keflavík Airport during winter: managing spray, wind, and changing light without rushing

Make the most of Keflavík’s dramatic winter light with a few simple tricks: shield your camera from coastal spray with a weather-sealed…

4 MAR

Drone compliance checklist: registration, restricted areas, and seasonal bird protections

Embark on the ultimate drone adventure in Westfjords & West Iceland—just follow our quick compliance checklist to fly worry-free. First, register your…

20 FEB

Why darkness feels calm

Discover the serene magic of Iceland’s Westfjords and West Iceland when the sun sets and a peaceful hush takes over. Far from…

10 MAR

The Most Beautiful Villages in the Icelandic Westfjords

Discover the Westfjords’ hidden gems—from the colorful streets of Ísafjörður and the waterfall-framed harbor of Flateyri to eco-focused Suðureyri and wildlife-rich Bíldudalur.…

11 FEB

Why nature never feels staged

Step into Iceland’s untamed beauty—where every waterfall, fjord and lava field writes its own story. From the thunderous roar of Gullfoss to…

11 MAR

Exploring Iceland’s Quiet Fjord Villages

Escape the crowds and uncover the true spirit of Iceland in its secluded fjord villages. Wind your way along narrow coastal roads…

12 MAR

Best Photography Adventures in the Westfjords

Discover Iceland’s wild Westfjords—the ultimate canvas for your lens. From the cascading tiers of Dynjandi and Europe’s western-most cliffs at Bjargtangar to…

20 FEB

Why nature leads the way

Discover the untamed beauty of Westfjords and West Iceland—where roaring waterfalls, dramatic fjords and lush valleys set the pace for adventure. After…

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