Exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes is unforgettable—but for travelers who eat gluten-free, finding safe and satisfying meals can be just as important as seeing waterfalls and glaciers. The good news is that Iceland is increasingly gluten-free friendly, and with a bit of planning you can enjoy everything from hearty local dishes to fresh seafood without worry.
Ourhotels.is is proud to welcome gluten-free guests across the west of Iceland, with three comfortable bases for your adventure: Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes), Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. Each location offers easy access to nature, small-town charm, and helpful staff who understand the needs of gluten-free travelers.
Gluten-Free Dining in Iceland: What to Expect
Icelanders are generally very aware of food allergies and intolerances, and gluten-free options are becoming more common in cafés, bakeries, and restaurants. In many places you’ll find:
– Clearly marked gluten-free items on menus
– Staff who understand “glútenlaust” (gluten-free) and can explain ingredients
– Naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled fish, lamb, potatoes, and salads
Supermarkets such as Bónus, Krónan, and Nettó often carry gluten-free bread, crackers, pasta, and snacks. If you’re staying at one of the Ourhotels.is properties, you can easily stock up and keep your favorites on hand for day trips.
Gluten-Free Stays in West Iceland with Ourhotels.is
West Iceland is ideal for road trips, hot springs, and coastal views—and Ourhotels.is inns are well placed for exploring while keeping gluten-free dining manageable.
Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes)
Hvítá Inn is a cozy countryside base close to Borgarnes, a convenient stop on the way from Reykjavík to the west and north. Here, you’re surrounded by rivers, lava fields, and historic sites, and you’re also within reach of shops and restaurants that can cater to gluten-free diets.
At Hvítá Inn, the team can help you:
– Identify gluten-free options at breakfast and nearby eateries
– Plan day trips to attractions like Hraunfossar and Deildartunguhver with food stops in mind
– Find local supermarkets where you can pick up gluten-free bread, snacks, and ingredients
Staying here gives you the best of both worlds: peaceful nature and practical access to gluten-free supplies in Borgarnes.
Stykkishólmur Inn – Gateway to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Stykkishólmur Inn sits in the charming fishing town of Stykkishólmur, a perfect base for exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula—often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its mix of cliffs, beaches, lava fields, and mountains.
Seafood is a highlight in Stykkishólmur, and many dishes are naturally gluten-free when prepared simply. Staff at Stykkishólmur Inn can:
– Point you toward local restaurants that understand gluten-free needs
– Help you communicate dietary requirements in Icelandic if needed
– Suggest naturally gluten-free local specialties, such as grilled fish, potatoes, and fresh salads
With a comfortable stay at Stykkishólmur Inn, you can enjoy the region’s beauty and cuisine while feeling confident about your gluten-free choices.
Ísafjörður Inn – Gluten-Free Friendly Base in the Westfjords
Ísafjörður Inn places you in the heart of the Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most remote and spectacular regions. While the area feels wild and far from everything, Ísafjörður town itself has a surprisingly good selection of cafés and restaurants, many of which are familiar with gluten-free diets.
From Ísafjörður Inn, you can:
– Explore dramatic fjords and quiet villages, knowing you have gluten-free options back in town
– Ask the inn’s staff for recommendations on where to find gluten-free meals and groceries
– Enjoy simple, hearty Icelandic dishes that are naturally gluten-free after checking how they’re prepared
This makes Ísafjörður Inn a reassuring base for gluten-free travelers who want to experience Iceland’s wilder side without sacrificing comfort or safety around food.
Tips for Gluten-Free Travelers in Iceland
To make the most of your trip, consider a few simple strategies:
– Learn key phrases: “Glútenlaust” (gluten-free) and “Ég má ekki borða glúten” (I cannot eat gluten) can be very helpful.
– Communicate clearly: Let restaurant staff know if you have celiac disease or a strong intolerance, and ask about cross-contamination.
– Carry snacks: Especially in rural areas, having gluten-free bars, nuts, or crackers from Reykjavík or larger towns is useful between meals.
– Use your hotel as a hub: At Ourhotels.is properties, ask staff for local advice—they know which nearby places are most accommodating for gluten-free guests.
Why Choose Ourhotels.is for a Gluten-Free Trip to West Iceland
Ourhotels.is focuses on comfort, location, and friendly service, making it easier for gluten-free travelers to relax and enjoy their time in Iceland. By staying at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, you benefit from:
– Local knowledge about gluten-free dining and shopping
– Convenient access to both nature and town services
– Staff who are used to welcoming international guests with different dietary needs
Whether you’re tracing the coastline of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, soaking in hot springs near Borgarfjörður, or driving the winding roads of the Westfjords, you can enjoy your journey with the confidence that gluten-free options are within reach.
Plan your stay with Ourhotels.is, let the team know about your gluten-free needs in advance, and focus on what matters most: experiencing the best of Iceland’s west—its landscapes, culture, and flavors—without compromising your diet.
