Exploring Iceland’s countryside is one of the most rewarding travel experiences in the world—towering mountains, black sand beaches, roaring waterfalls, and quiet fishing villages all within a few hours’ drive. But this fragile landscape needs careful protection. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable trip while helping to preserve Iceland’s nature and culture for generations to come.
Staying with Ourhotels.is is a simple way to start. Our locally run inns in West Iceland—Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords—are perfectly placed for slow, responsible exploration of the countryside.
**1. Travel Slowly and Stay Local**
Responsible travel in Iceland begins with slowing down. Instead of racing around the entire Ring Road in a few days, focus on one region and get to know it well.
West Iceland is ideal for this:
– Base yourself at **Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður**, just a short drive from Borgarnes. From here you can explore hot springs, lava fields, waterfalls, and historic sites without long daily drives.
– Spend a few nights at **Stykkishólmur Inn** and discover the Snæfellsnes Peninsula at a relaxed pace—walk the harbor, take a boat tour among the islands, and visit small villages along the coast.
– Continue north to **Ísafjörður Inn** in the Westfjords, where dramatic fjords, quiet hiking trails, and bird cliffs are all within reach.
By staying longer in each place, you reduce driving emissions, support local businesses, and experience a more authentic side of Icelandic life.
**2. Respect Iceland’s Fragile Nature**
Iceland’s moss-covered lava fields, geothermal areas, and black sand beaches are beautiful but extremely delicate. Footprints can last for decades, and off-road driving can permanently scar the landscape.
To explore responsibly:
– Always stay on marked paths and trails, even if it means a slightly longer walk.
– Never drive off-road—this is illegal in Iceland and causes long-term damage.
– Avoid stepping on moss or fragile vegetation; it can take many years to recover.
– Keep a safe distance from cliffs, hot springs, and powerful waves, especially at beaches like Djúpalónssandur or Rauðisandur.
The staff at **Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn** can point you to well-marked hiking routes and safe viewpoints, so you can enjoy the scenery without harming it.
**3. Follow Local Guidelines and Seasonal Rules**
Conditions in Iceland change quickly with the seasons. Some roads, trails, and mountain passes are only safe in summer, while winter brings snow, ice, and limited daylight.
To travel safely and responsibly:
– Check road conditions daily at road.is and weather forecasts at vedur.is.
– Respect seasonal closures of roads, hiking areas, and bird nesting sites.
– Ask your hosts at Ourhotels.is for up-to-date local advice before heading out.
In Borgarfjörður, for example, the team at **Hvítá Inn** can advise you on safe access to waterfalls like Hraunfossar and Barnafoss in different seasons. In the Westfjords, the staff at **Ísafjörður Inn** can help you plan routes around fjords and mountain passes that match the weather and your driving experience.
**4. Support Local Communities and Culture**
Responsible travel is not only about nature—it’s also about people. When you stay in locally run accommodation, eat at neighborhood restaurants, and join small-scale tours, you help keep rural communities vibrant.
During your stay:
– Choose family-run guesthouses and inns like **Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn**.
– Dine in local cafés and restaurants, trying Icelandic fish, lamb, and seasonal produce.
– Join small-group tours with local guides for hiking, boat trips, or cultural experiences.
– Visit museums and cultural centers in towns like Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur, and Ísafjörður to learn about Icelandic history and daily life.
Ourhotels.is works closely with local partners in each area, so you can easily find authentic experiences that benefit the communities you’re visiting.
**5. Minimize Waste and Use Resources Wisely**
Iceland’s countryside has limited waste and recycling facilities, especially in remote areas. A little preparation goes a long way:
– Bring a reusable water bottle—tap water in Iceland is exceptionally clean and safe to drink.
– Carry a reusable coffee cup and shopping bag to reduce single-use plastics.
– Pack out all your trash if bins are full or unavailable.
– Take short showers and be mindful of energy use, especially in winter.
At Ourhotels.is properties, you’ll find clear information on recycling and responsible water and energy use. By following these guidelines at **Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn**, you help reduce the environmental footprint of your stay.
**6. Drive Carefully and Share the Roads Respectfully**
Many of Iceland’s most beautiful areas are reached by narrow, winding roads. Responsible driving protects both people and wildlife:
– Keep to speed limits and slow down on gravel roads.
– Watch for sheep and birds near the roadside, especially in summer.
– Use designated parking areas and never stop in the middle of the road for photos.
– If you’re unsure about driving conditions, ask your hosts for advice before setting out.
From **Hvítá Inn**, you can reach attractions like Deildartunguhver and Reykholt on well-maintained roads, while the routes around **Stykkishólmur Inn** and **Ísafjörður Inn** may include narrower coastal roads that reward careful, unhurried driving.
**7. Experience Nature Quietly and Thoughtfully**
Part of traveling responsibly is recognizing that Iceland’s countryside is a living environment, not just a backdrop for photos.
As you explore:
– Keep noise levels low, especially in small villages and natural areas.
– Give wildlife space—use binoculars or a zoom lens instead of approaching animals.
– Take time to simply sit, listen, and observe rather than rushing from one “must-see” spot to another.
The peaceful surroundings of **Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður**, the harbor views from **Stykkishólmur Inn**, and the fjord landscapes around **Ísafjörður Inn** are perfect for slowing down and connecting with nature in a more meaningful way.
**8. Choose Responsible Accommodation in West Iceland**
Where you stay shapes how you experience Iceland. Ourhotels.is focuses on comfort, local character, and responsible practices in some of the country’s most beautiful regions:
– **Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður, near Borgarnes)** – A welcoming base for exploring waterfalls, hot springs, lava caves, and historic sites in West Iceland.
– **Stykkishólmur Inn (Snæfellsnes Peninsula)** – Ideal for discovering charming coastal villages, dramatic coastlines, and the gateway to Breiðafjörður’s islands.
– **Ísafjörður Inn (Westfjords)** – Perfect for accessing remote fjords, hiking trails, and the unique culture of Iceland’s northwest.
By choosing Ourhotels.is, you support local hospitality and gain access to insider tips that help you explore Iceland’s countryside more responsibly and enjoyably.
Exploring Iceland’s countryside responsibly doesn’t mean sacrificing adventure—it means traveling in a way that keeps this extraordinary landscape wild, welcoming, and unspoiled. With thoughtful choices, local stays, and a slower pace, your journey through West Iceland can be both unforgettable and sustainable.
