Exploring the Icelandic Highlands is one of the most unforgettable adventures you can have in the country – but it also requires a bit of planning. The region is wild, remote, and largely untouched, which is exactly what makes it so magical. To help you make the most of your journey, here are some essential Highlands travel tips, along with ideas on how to base yourself comfortably in West Iceland with Ourhotels.is while you explore.
The Highlands are only accessible a few months of the year, usually from late June to early September, when the F-roads (mountain roads) are open and conditions are safe enough for travel. Always check road conditions on road.is and weather forecasts on vedur.is before you set off. Conditions can change quickly, and a sunny morning can turn into fog, rain, or even snow at higher elevations.
A proper 4×4 vehicle is essential for most Highland routes. Many F-roads involve gravel, steep hills, and sometimes river crossings. Never attempt a river crossing if you’re unsure of the depth or current, and never drive off-road – it’s illegal and causes long-lasting damage to fragile nature. If you’re not comfortable driving yourself, consider guided Highland tours that depart from West Iceland towns and villages.
Packing smart will make your Highlands trip far more enjoyable. Even in summer, temperatures can be low, and windchill is real. Dress in layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer (like fleece or wool), and a waterproof, windproof outer shell. Good hiking boots, warm socks, gloves, a hat, and a buff or scarf are highly recommended. Don’t forget a refillable water bottle, snacks, a power bank, and a physical map or offline navigation – mobile coverage can be patchy in the Highlands.
Because the Highlands are so remote, it’s wise to base yourself in comfortable, well-located accommodation in West Iceland and take day trips or multi-day excursions from there. Ourhotels.is offers several great options that make planning your Highlands adventure easier, while also letting you explore some of Iceland’s most beautiful coastal and countryside areas.
Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes, is an excellent starting point if you’re coming from Reykjavík and heading inland. This area is rich in history, hot springs, and lava fields, and it’s a convenient base for exploring interior routes towards the Highlands. After a long day of driving gravel roads and hiking, returning to a cozy inn with comfortable beds and a peaceful riverside atmosphere makes all the difference. Staying at Hvítá Inn also gives you easy access to Borgarfjörður’s attractions, such as Hraunfossar waterfalls and the Deildartunguhver hot spring, perfect for a more relaxed day between Highland adventures.
If you’re planning to combine Highlands travel with exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the northern Westfjords, The Stykkishólmur Inn is a strategic and scenic choice. Stykkishólmur is a charming town with colorful houses, a beautiful harbor, and ferry connections further north. From here, you can join tours or drive to Highland access points while still enjoying the comfort of a coastal town in the evenings. The Stykkishólmur Inn, part of Ourhotels.is, offers a welcoming base where you can recharge, enjoy local restaurants, and plan the next leg of your journey with reliable Wi-Fi and local knowledge at hand.
For those heading further into the wild Westfjords and combining that with Highland routes in the north and interior, Ísafjörður Inn is a great option. Ísafjörður is the largest town in the Westfjords, surrounded by dramatic mountains and fjords. Staying at Ísafjörður Inn allows you to experience one of Iceland’s most remote regions while still having the comfort and services you need before or after tackling more challenging Highland routes. It’s an ideal place to rest, reorganize your gear, and enjoy the unique culture and nature of the Westfjords.
When traveling in the Highlands, safety should always come first. Let someone know your travel plans and expected return time, and consider registering your trip with safetravel.is. Bring extra food, water, and warm clothing in your vehicle, and keep your fuel tank topped up whenever you can – gas stations are few and far between in remote areas. Respect all signs and closures; if a road is marked as closed, do not attempt to drive it.
The Highlands are also a place where responsible travel matters. Stay on marked trails, pack out all your trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife or fragile moss. Use designated campsites if you’re camping, and follow local guidelines about where you can and cannot stay overnight. By traveling thoughtfully, you help preserve this unique landscape for future visitors.
One of the best ways to enjoy the Highlands is to combine rugged daytime adventures with comfortable nights in well-located accommodation. With Ourhotels.is, you can create an itinerary that balances exploration and relaxation: start your journey at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður near Borgarnes, continue to The Stykkishólmur Inn as you explore Snæfellsnes and nearby Highland routes, and finish in the dramatic Westfjords at Ísafjörður Inn. This way, you experience both the raw interior and the stunning coasts of West Iceland, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
By planning ahead, driving safely, and choosing the right bases with Ourhotels.is, your Highlands trip can be both adventurous and relaxing. The combination of wild landscapes by day and warm, welcoming inns by night is what turns a good Iceland trip into an unforgettable one.
