Eating outdoors in Iceland can be magical: wide open landscapes, fresh air, and views that make even a simple sandwich feel special. But the Icelandic elements are powerful, and staying safe and comfortable takes a bit of planning—especially if you’re exploring the west of Iceland and using Ourhotels.is as your base.
Whether you’re picnicking by a waterfall, grilling near the coast, or enjoying a simple meal outside your room at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, a few smart habits will help you eat outdoors safely and enjoy every moment.
Iceland’s Weather: Beautiful, but Unpredictable
Even in summer, Iceland’s weather can change quickly. Sunshine can turn to wind and drizzle in minutes, and temperatures drop fast in the evening.
– Dress in layers: A base layer, warm mid-layer, and windproof/waterproof shell are ideal.
– Always pack a hat and gloves: Even in July, they can make the difference between a cozy outdoor meal and cutting it short.
– Watch the wind: Strong gusts can blow away lightweight items and make open flames dangerous.
Guests at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, just a short drive from Borgarnes, often use the inn as a comfortable base to check the forecast, prepare food, and then head out for a picnic by the river or nearby viewpoints. Returning to a warm room and hot shower after a chilly outdoor meal is part of the charm.
Food Safety in Iceland’s Cool Climate
Iceland’s cool temperatures help, but food safety still matters:
– Keep cold foods cold: Use a small cooler bag with ice packs for dairy, meat, and fish.
– Don’t leave food out too long: Even in cool weather, aim to eat perishable foods within 1–2 hours.
– Choose sturdy foods: Hard cheeses, cured meats, smoked fish, nuts, and dense bread (like rúgbrauð) travel well and stay fresh longer.
– Seal everything: Use airtight containers or bags to keep out moisture, sand, and curious birds.
If you’re staying at Stykkishólmur Inn, you can easily stock up at local shops in town, prepare simple picnic meals in your room, and then head out to enjoy them with a view over Breiðafjörður’s islands. The inn’s central location makes it easy to pop back to store leftovers safely or grab extra supplies.
Safe Cooking and Grilling Outdoors
Cooking outdoors in Iceland is rewarding, but it must be done carefully:
– Respect fire bans and local rules: In dry conditions, open fires may be restricted. Always check signs and local advice.
– Use designated areas: Many picnic spots and campsites have marked cooking or grilling areas.
– Never light fires on moss: Icelandic moss is fragile and burns easily, and damage can last for decades.
– Secure your stove or grill: Strong winds can tip over equipment; set up in a sheltered spot and never leave flames unattended.
– Extinguish completely: Use plenty of water and make sure everything is cold before you leave.
From Ísafjörður Inn, you can explore the dramatic Westfjords and find sheltered spots for outdoor meals with mountain and fjord views. Preparing your ingredients at the inn, then cooking in a safe, designated area outdoors, lets you enjoy the best of both worlds: Icelandic nature and a secure, comfortable base.
Respecting Nature While You Eat
Iceland’s landscapes are delicate. Eating outdoors safely also means protecting the environment:
– Pack out all waste: Take every bit of trash with you, including food scraps, napkins, and packaging.
– Don’t feed wildlife: Birds and animals can become dependent on human food and may get sick.
– Stay on marked paths: When you look for a picnic spot, avoid trampling moss and fragile vegetation.
– Use toilets where available: If you’re far from facilities, follow Leave No Trace principles and stay well away from water sources.
Guests at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn often use their rooms to repack food into reusable containers and reduce single-use plastics before heading out. This simple step makes it easier to leave no trace in the places you visit.
Choosing the Best Outdoor Eating Spots in West Iceland
The west of Iceland offers countless places to enjoy a meal outdoors, from quiet riverbanks to harbor views:
– Around Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður area):
Enjoy riverside views, nearby hot springs, and gentle countryside landscapes. It’s easy to find a quiet spot for a picnic after exploring waterfalls and historic sites in the region.
– Near Stykkishólmur Inn:
The town’s harbor, viewpoints over Breiðafjörður, and nearby coastal paths offer scenic, wind-sheltered places to sit down with a simple meal. You can combine a boat tour with a picnic on shore before returning to the inn.
– From Ísafjörður Inn:
The Westfjords are perfect for more dramatic outdoor dining: fjord-side viewpoints, quiet beaches, and mountain lookouts. Always check conditions first—roads and trails can be challenging—and use the inn as a place to plan safely.
How Ourhotels.is Helps You Eat Outdoors Safely
Staying with Ourhotels.is in west Iceland gives you a safe, comfortable base for your outdoor food adventures:
– Plan and prepare indoors: Use your room at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn to pack food, check the weather, and choose safe locations.
– Store food properly: Keep perishables in your room’s fridge (where available) and only take what you need for the day.
– Warm up after: After a windy picnic or a chilly evening meal outside, you can return to a warm bed, hot shower, and a relaxing atmosphere.
– Local knowledge: Staff can often point you to nearby picnic spots, viewpoints, and safe areas to enjoy food outdoors, as well as advise on current conditions.
By combining simple safety habits with the comfort and convenience of Ourhotels.is, you can enjoy eating outdoors in Iceland with confidence. Prepare your meals at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, head out into the wild beauty of west Iceland, and savor every bite—knowing you’re staying safe, respecting nature, and coming home to a cozy place at the end of the day.
