Exploring Icelandic caves is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the raw power of Icelandic nature. From ancient lava tubes to glittering ice caves, each region offers something different—and staying in the right place makes it much easier to explore safely and comfortably. That’s where Ourhotels.is comes in, with welcoming inns perfectly placed for cave adventures in West Iceland and the Westfjords.
Iceland’s caves are formed in two main ways: through volcanic activity (lava caves) and through glacial movement (ice caves). Lava caves are usually accessible year-round and reveal layers of volcanic history in their rock formations. Ice caves, on the other hand, are seasonal, constantly changing, and require guided tours for safety. Both types offer a unique look beneath Iceland’s dramatic surface.
A great starting point for cave exploration in West Iceland is Borgarfjörður, an area rich in lava fields, hot springs, and underground wonders. Staying at the Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (close to Borgarnes) puts you within easy reach of some of the region’s most fascinating lava caves. From here, you can join guided tours into nearby lava tubes, where you’ll walk through tunnels formed by flowing magma thousands of years ago. After a day underground, returning to the comfort of Hvítá Inn—with its peaceful countryside surroundings and easy access to the Ring Road—makes the experience feel complete.
If you’re interested in combining cave exploration with coastal scenery and island views, Stykkishólmur is an ideal base. The Stykkishólmur Inn, part of Ourhotels.is, sits on the edge of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes. This area is home to famous lava fields and the legendary Snæfellsjökull glacier, under which there are natural caves and lava formations that have inspired stories and literature for centuries. From Stykkishólmur Inn, you can join day tours that explore the peninsula’s lava caves, dramatic cliffs, and black-sand beaches, then return to a cozy harbor town known for its calm atmosphere and beautiful sunsets over Breiðafjörður Bay.
For travelers who want to go further off the beaten path, the Westfjords offer a wilder, more remote cave experience. Ísafjörður, the region’s main town, is a perfect hub for exploring sea caves, coastal rock formations, and hidden inlets carved by the ocean over millennia. Ísafjörður Inn gives you a comfortable base in the heart of this dramatic fjord landscape. From here, you can join local tours that combine boat trips, hiking, and visits to coastal caves and cliffs, where you might spot seabirds and seals along the way. After a day of adventure, Ísafjörður Inn offers a warm, relaxed place to unwind and plan your next outing.
When exploring Icelandic caves, safety and preparation are essential. Always go with a certified guide, especially for ice caves or remote lava systems. Wear sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, gloves, and a hat, and never enter a cave without proper lighting and safety equipment. Many tours provide helmets and headlamps, and your guide will explain how to move safely on uneven, sometimes slippery surfaces. Weather in Iceland can change quickly, so it’s wise to base yourself in comfortable, well-located accommodation that allows flexibility in your plans.
Ourhotels.is makes it easy to plan a cave-focused itinerary across West Iceland and the Westfjords. You can start your journey at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður for nearby lava caves and hot springs, continue to The Stykkishólmur Inn to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s volcanic landscapes, and then head north to Ísafjörður Inn to experience the remote beauty and coastal caves of the Westfjords. Each inn offers a welcoming atmosphere, local knowledge, and convenient access to guided tours, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure rather than worrying about logistics.
By combining thoughtful planning, local guidance, and comfortable stays with Ourhotels.is, you can explore Icelandic caves in a way that’s safe, memorable, and deeply connected to the landscapes around you. Whether you’re walking through ancient lava tunnels near Borgarnes, discovering the volcanic mysteries of Snæfellsnes from Stykkishólmur, or venturing into the wild fjords around Ísafjörður, Iceland’s caves offer a journey into the heart of the island—and Ourhotels.is is there to welcome you at the end of each day.
