Traveling through West Iceland isn’t just about dramatic fjords, hot springs, and endless summer light—it’s also about the people who call this region home. When you respect local communities, your trip becomes richer, more authentic, and more sustainable for everyone. At Ourhotels.is, we’re proud to be part of these communities, with welcoming stays at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. Here’s how you can travel kindly and responsibly while enjoying the best of West Iceland.
Start by learning a little about Icelandic culture before you arrive. A few Icelandic words—like “takk” (thank you) and “góðan daginn” (good day)—go a long way in showing respect. Ourhotels.is staff are always happy to share simple phrases and local customs when you check in, whether you’re staying at Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur Inn in the charming harbor town, or Ísafjörður Inn in the heart of the Westfjords. Asking questions and showing curiosity is one of the easiest ways to connect with locals.
Respecting local communities also means supporting local businesses. Instead of relying only on big chains, choose family-run cafés, small bakeries, and local tour operators. Near Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you’ll find farms, greenhouses, and countryside restaurants that serve fresh, regional ingredients. In Stykkishólmur, you can enjoy seafood caught just offshore and browse small shops run by local artisans. Ísafjörður is known for its fishing heritage and creative food scene—ask the team at Ísafjörður Inn for recommendations on where to try traditional dishes and locally sourced specialties. Every króna you spend locally helps keep these communities vibrant year-round.
Be mindful of noise and behavior, especially in small towns and rural areas. Many Icelandic communities are quiet, with residents who work early hours or in seasonal jobs that depend on good rest. Keep voices low at night, avoid playing loud music outdoors, and follow any house rules at Ourhotels.is properties. At Hvítá Inn, where nature and open countryside surround you, sound travels far; in Stykkishólmur and Ísafjörður, narrow streets and close-knit neighborhoods mean that late-night noise can easily disturb others. Thoughtful behavior helps maintain a good relationship between visitors and locals.
Nature is deeply woven into daily life in West Iceland, so respecting the environment is also a way of respecting the community. Stay on marked paths, never drive off-road, and follow all signs about protected areas. Locals take great pride in their landscapes, from the rivers and lava fields around Borgarfjörður to the islands off Stykkishólmur and the dramatic fjords near Ísafjörður. Ourhotels.is encourages guests to follow “leave no trace” principles: take your litter with you, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave natural sites exactly as you found them. If you’re unsure about local rules, ask at reception—staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can guide you to responsible tour operators and less crowded viewpoints.
Driving and parking are another important part of respecting local life. Many West Iceland towns have narrow streets, limited parking, and areas reserved for residents. Park only in designated spaces, respect speed limits, and never block driveways or farm entrances. Around Borgarfjörður and Borgarnes, you’ll often share the road with farm vehicles and sometimes animals; patience and caution are appreciated by everyone who lives there. In Stykkishólmur and Ísafjörður, walking is often the best way to explore—leave your car at your Ourhotels.is inn and enjoy the town on foot.
Photography is a big part of any Iceland trip, but it’s important to be considerate. Always ask permission before photographing people, private homes, or farms. Many locals are happy to share their stories, but they also value privacy. From the cozy surroundings of Hvítá Inn to the colorful houses of Stykkishólmur and the working harbor in Ísafjörður, you’ll find plenty of beautiful scenes that don’t intrude on anyone’s personal space. When in doubt, a friendly question is the best approach.
Seasonality also shapes life in West Iceland. In winter, storms and darkness can make daily routines more challenging for residents; in summer, long days bring busy fishing seasons and tourism work. Respect opening hours, understand that not everything is available year-round, and be patient if weather changes your plans. The teams at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can help you adjust your itinerary in a way that works with local conditions, not against them.
Finally, give back where you can. This doesn’t have to be complicated—choosing locally owned accommodation like Ourhotels.is, tipping when appropriate, leaving positive reviews for small businesses, and sharing responsible travel tips with other visitors all make a difference. If you join tours recommended by Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, you’re more likely to support guides who respect both nature and community.
By traveling thoughtfully, you’ll experience a more genuine side of West Iceland. You’ll taste food grown and caught nearby, hear stories from people who have lived in these landscapes for generations, and enjoy a warm welcome that comes from mutual respect. Ourhotels.is—through Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn—invites you to be not just a visitor, but a considerate guest and a positive part of the communities you explore.
