Driving Iceland’s mountain roads is one of the most memorable ways to experience the country’s wild interior—glacier views, lava fields, endless horizons—but it also demands respect and preparation. With the right knowledge, you can cross these highland routes safely and enjoyably, using comfortable bases like Ourhotels.is properties to rest and plan each leg of your journey.
Iceland’s mountain roads, often marked with an “F” (F-roads), are usually gravel, rough, and sometimes involve river crossings. They are only open in summer and early autumn, and conditions can change quickly. Before you set off, always check road and weather information on safetravel.is and road.is. These sites will tell you if a route is open, what kind of vehicle is recommended, and whether any warnings are in place.
A proper 4×4 is essential for most mountain roads. Even if a smaller car is technically allowed, it may not be safe or comfortable. Choose a vehicle with good ground clearance and make sure your rental company permits driving on F-roads. Reduce your speed on gravel to avoid skidding and stone damage, and keep both hands on the wheel—loose surfaces can pull the car unexpectedly. If you’re not used to driving on gravel or in remote areas, consider taking a day or two to practice on easier roads while staying at a convenient base like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes. From there, you can explore gentler highland edges and get a feel for Icelandic conditions before committing to more demanding routes.
River crossings are one of the biggest challenges on Iceland’s mountain roads. Never attempt a crossing in a small car or a vehicle not designed for it. If you’re unsure, don’t cross. Water levels can rise quickly after rain or warm weather, and what was safe in the morning may be dangerous in the afternoon. Always stop, get out, and inspect the crossing on foot from a safe vantage point. Look for the shallowest, calmest line, usually downstream of where others have crossed. Engage 4×4, drive slowly and steadily in first or second gear, and never change gear mid-stream. If other drivers are waiting, watch how and where they cross and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Turning back is always better than getting stuck.
Weather is another key factor. Even in summer, the highlands can be cold, windy, and foggy. Pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, food, and plenty of water. Mobile coverage can be limited, so don’t rely solely on your phone. Download offline maps and let someone know your planned route and expected arrival time. A good strategy is to plan your mountain crossings between comfortable overnight stops. For example, you might start your journey from Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, where you can enjoy the calm countryside and good access to the Ring Road, then head west and north, using The Stykkishólmur Inn as a base to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and nearby highland tracks that are less remote but still dramatic.
Planning your days around daylight is also important. In summer, Iceland’s long days give you plenty of time to drive slowly and safely, but in late summer and early autumn, darkness returns quickly. Aim to finish your mountain driving well before nightfall so you’re not navigating rough tracks in the dark. This also gives you time to relax in the evening, review the next day’s route, and enjoy local food and scenery. On the Westfjords side of your journey, Ísafjörður Inn makes an ideal base. From there, you can explore some of Iceland’s most rugged coastal and mountain landscapes without the pressure of long, continuous driving days. The Westfjords’ roads can be steep and winding, with sudden weather changes, so having a comfortable place to return to each night makes the adventure much more enjoyable.
Respecting road signs and closures is essential. If a road is marked closed, do not attempt to drive it, even if the barrier looks easy to bypass. Closures are there for your safety and to protect fragile nature. Off-road driving is strictly illegal in Iceland and can cause permanent damage to moss and soil that take decades to recover. Always stay on marked tracks and parking areas. This way, you help preserve the landscapes you came to see.
Fuel planning is another part of safe highland travel. Gas stations can be far apart, especially once you leave the Ring Road. Fill up whenever you have the chance and keep an eye on your range. Many travelers find it helpful to break their route into manageable segments between towns and inns. For example, you might start from Hvítá Inn, explore the interior or the highland edges, then continue to The Stykkishólmur Inn for a night on the coast, before heading north and eventually making your way to Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. This kind of staged itinerary lets you enjoy both the wild interior and the dramatic coastline without rushing.
If you’re new to Iceland or to mountain driving, consider mixing guided tours with self-drive days. Stay at one of the Ourhotels.is locations, join a local highland or super-jeep tour for the most challenging routes, and then use your own car for easier roads and sightseeing. This approach gives you the best of both worlds: the freedom of self-drive and the security of expert guidance where it matters most.
Above all, patience and flexibility are your best tools. Conditions may force you to change plans, skip a road, or take a longer way around. With comfortable bases like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, The Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you can adjust your route without stress, enjoy local towns and nature, and wait for better weather or road conditions. Crossing Iceland’s mountain roads safely isn’t about conquering the landscape—it’s about traveling with it, at its pace, and returning each evening to a warm, welcoming place to rest.
By preparing well, respecting the elements, and planning your journey around reliable stays with Ourhotels.is, you can experience Iceland’s highlands and mountain roads in a way that is both safe and unforgettable.
