Experiencing Iceland’s midnight sun is like stepping into another world. For a few magical weeks each summer, the sun barely dips below the horizon, bathing the landscape in a soft golden glow all “night” long. If you’re planning a trip to West Iceland during this time, a bit of preparation will help you make the most of the endless daylight.
Here are some practical midnight sun travel tips, along with ideas for where to stay with Ourhotels.is, including Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn.
The midnight sun in Iceland: when and where
In West and Northwest Iceland, the midnight sun is at its strongest from early June to mid-July, with long bright evenings stretching from late May into August. Even when the sun technically sets, it never gets fully dark – more like a long, beautiful sunset that slowly becomes sunrise again.
Staying in the west gives you easy access to some of Iceland’s most dramatic coastlines and fjords under this unique light. Ourhotels.is properties are well-placed for exploring:
– Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes) – ideal for Golden Circle extensions and West Iceland countryside.
– Stykkishólmur Inn – a perfect base for the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Breiðafjörður bay.
– Ísafjörður Inn – in the heart of the Westfjords, where the midnight sun feels especially wild and remote.
Pack for sleep in daylight
The biggest challenge of the midnight sun is sleeping. Your body may not realize it’s “night” when the sky is still bright.
– Bring a good sleep mask, even though Ourhotels.is rooms have curtains to help block the light.
– Consider earplugs if you’re a light sleeper – long bright evenings can mean more activity outside.
– Keep a regular routine: go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time to help your body adjust.
At Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you’ll find comfortable rooms designed for rest, so you can recharge between long days of exploring.
Use the light to extend your sightseeing
The midnight sun is perfect for avoiding crowds and enjoying popular sights in peace.
From Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður:
– Explore Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls in the late evening when most tour buses are gone.
– Drive quiet country roads around Borgarfjörður, with soft light over rivers and farms.
– Visit Deildartunguhver hot spring or the historic Reykholt area after dinner, when the light is still beautiful.
From Stykkishólmur Inn:
– Take late-evening walks around Stykkishólmur’s harbor and viewpoint, watching the sun hover over Breiðafjörður’s islands.
– Use the long days to drive the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with fewer time constraints – Kirkjufell, Arnarstapi, and Djúpalónssandur are especially striking in the low golden light.
– Enjoy a quiet midnight stroll through town; the pastel sky makes everything feel surreal.
From Ísafjörður Inn:
– Head out for late hikes in the surrounding mountains, with views over the fjords glowing in the midnight sun.
– Explore nearby villages like Suðureyri or Flateyri in the evening, when the light reflects off the calm sea.
– Take advantage of the long days to drive the winding Westfjords roads without rushing.
Dress in layers – even at midnight
Even in summer, Iceland’s weather is unpredictable. The midnight sun doesn’t always mean warmth.
– Pack layers: base layer, light sweater or fleece, and a windproof/waterproof shell.
– Bring a hat and gloves for late-night coastal walks or boat tours.
– Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots are essential, especially around waterfalls and coastal paths.
All Ourhotels.is locations offer easy access to nature, so you’ll want to be ready to step outside at any hour when the light is at its best.
Plan flexible days, not strict schedules
With so much daylight, you don’t need to cram everything into the middle of the day.
– Use the brighter “nights” for scenic drives, photography, and quiet sightseeing.
– Save mid-day for relaxing, enjoying local cafés, or simply resting at your hotel.
– Check local conditions daily – weather and road conditions can change quickly, especially in the Westfjords.
At Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, the staff can help with local tips, current road information, and suggestions for less-crowded spots to enjoy the midnight sun.
Stay safe on the roads
The long light can tempt you to keep driving far later than you normally would.
– Set a “cut-off time” for driving, even if it’s still bright outside. Fatigue feels different when it never gets dark.
– Take regular breaks to stretch, hydrate, and rest your eyes.
– In more remote areas like around Ísafjörður Inn, watch for sheep on the roads, especially in the evening.
Capture the light – photography tips
The midnight sun is a dream for photographers, from casual smartphone users to professionals.
– Aim for the “golden hours,” which can last for many hours around midnight in June.
– Use the soft light to photograph waterfalls near Hvítá Inn, coastal cliffs around Stykkishólmur Inn, and dramatic fjord landscapes near Ísafjörður Inn.
– Bring a small tripod if you want sharper shots in lower light, especially around midnight and early morning.
Respect nature and local communities
The midnight sun can make it feel like time doesn’t exist, but it’s still important to be considerate.
– Keep noise down near residential areas, even if it looks like daytime.
– Stick to marked paths and respect fragile moss and bird nesting areas.
– Follow local guidelines for hot springs, beaches, and hiking trails.
Ourhotels.is focuses on comfortable stays that connect you with the surrounding nature while encouraging responsible travel in West Iceland and the Westfjords.
Why base yourself with Ourhotels.is for the midnight sun
Choosing locally rooted accommodation makes a big difference when you’re exploring under the midnight sun:
– Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður: A peaceful countryside base close to Borgarnes, ideal for waterfalls, hot springs, and quiet riverside walks in the late evening light.
– Stykkishólmur Inn: In one of Iceland’s most charming coastal towns, perfect for island views, boat trips, and exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula under endless skies.
– Ísafjörður Inn: In the heart of the Westfjords, surrounded by steep mountains and deep fjords, where the midnight sun feels truly wild and unforgettable.
By staying with Ourhotels.is, you can slow down, enjoy the long days, and experience the midnight sun in some of Iceland’s most beautiful regions – with comfortable rooms to return to whenever you finally decide it’s time to sleep.
