Planning a picnic in Iceland is one of the best ways to enjoy the country’s wild beauty—black sand beaches, mossy lava fields, quiet fjords, and glacier-fed rivers all make unforgettable backdrops for an outdoor meal. But Iceland’s nature is powerful and unpredictable, so a little preparation goes a long way toward staying safe and comfortable.
Whether you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, The Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, Ourhotels.is is a great base for safe, scenic picnics in West Iceland.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 1: Check the Weather (and Then Check It Again)
Icelandic weather can change in minutes—from sunshine to wind, rain, or fog. Before you head out with your picnic basket, always check the forecast on vedur.is and road conditions on road.is.
From Hvítá Inn, you might be planning a riverside picnic near Borgarnes; from The Stykkishólmur Inn, maybe a coastal viewpoint; from Ísafjörður Inn, a quiet fjord-side spot. In all cases, strong wind or sudden rain can turn a relaxing picnic into a struggle. If high winds or heavy rain are forecast, ask the staff at Ourhotels.is for sheltered locations or indoor alternatives with a view.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 2: Dress in Layers and Stay Dry
Even in summer, it can be chilly by the sea or in the highlands. Dress in layers:
– A moisture-wicking base layer
– A warm mid-layer (wool or fleece)
– A windproof, waterproof outer layer
Gloves, a hat, and warm socks can make a big difference if the wind picks up during your picnic. Guests at Hvítá Inn often underestimate how cool it can feel near the Hvítá river, and coastal winds around Stykkishólmur or Ísafjörður can be surprisingly strong. Staying warm and dry is key to enjoying your meal outdoors.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 3: Respect the Ocean and Rivers
Iceland’s waters are beautiful but dangerous. Never turn your back on the ocean—“sneaker waves” can appear suddenly, especially on the west coast and around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula near The Stykkishólmur Inn.
For rivers, like those near Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, keep a safe distance from the edge, especially with children. Riverbanks can be slippery or unstable, and glacial rivers are extremely cold and fast-moving. Choose picnic spots well away from the waterline and avoid climbing on wet rocks.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 4: Protect the Fragile Nature
Iceland’s moss and vegetation are delicate and can take decades to recover from damage. When you head out from any Ourhotels.is property—Hvítá Inn, The Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn—stick to marked paths and durable surfaces like rocks, gravel, or grass that’s clearly used for walking.
Avoid stepping on thick moss or fragile plants, and never drive off-road to reach a picnic spot. Not only is off-road driving illegal in Iceland, it also leaves scars on the landscape that can last a lifetime.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 5: Secure Your Trash and Food
Wind is one of the biggest “thieves” in Iceland. Plastic bags, napkins, and packaging can blow away in seconds. Use reusable containers and keep everything weighted down or inside your backpack when not in use.
Always pack out all your trash, including food scraps. Birds and other wildlife can become dependent on human food, and leftover waste can spoil the pristine environment that makes Iceland so special. At Ourhotels.is locations, you’ll find proper waste and recycling facilities when you return from your picnic.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 6: Choose Safe Picnic Spots
Look for flat, stable ground away from:
– Cliff edges
– Steep slopes
– Loose rocks
– Unstable riverbanks
Around Stykkishólmur, many viewpoints are close to cliffs and rocky shorelines—beautiful, but not ideal for sitting right on the edge. In the Westfjords near Ísafjörður Inn, some fjord-side areas can be affected by rockfall or avalanches in certain seasons, so always follow local signs and advice. The team at Ourhotels.is can recommend tried-and-tested picnic spots that are both scenic and safe.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 7: Sun, Wind, and Midnight Light
Even on cloudy days, UV levels in Iceland can be stronger than you expect, especially near water or snow. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The wind can also dehydrate you quickly, so pack enough water for everyone.
In summer, the long evenings and midnight sun in West Iceland are perfect for late picnics. Just remember that “late” can easily turn into “very late” when it never gets dark—plan your return route in advance and make sure your phone is charged.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 8: Be Prepared for Emergencies
Before you leave Hvítá Inn, The Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, let someone know roughly where you’re going and when you plan to be back. Take:
– A fully charged phone
– A small first-aid kit
– Extra warm clothing
– A map or offline navigation
For longer outings, consider registering your travel plan on safetravel.is. In remote areas of the Westfjords or Snæfellsnes, mobile coverage can be limited, so don’t rely solely on your phone.
Iceland Picnic Safety Tip 9: Use Local Knowledge
One of the advantages of staying with Ourhotels.is is access to local insight. The staff at Hvítá Inn know the safest river viewpoints and sheltered spots near Borgarnes. The team at The Stykkishólmur Inn can point you to quiet coastal areas with great views of Breiðafjörður’s islands. At Ísafjörður Inn, you can get tips on fjord-side locations that avoid avalanche-prone zones and are suitable for families.
Ask about:
– Current weather and wind patterns
– Areas to avoid due to tides, waves, or road conditions
– Family-friendly picnic spots with easy access
Enjoying a Safe Picnic with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland
A picnic in Iceland can be a highlight of your trip—fresh air, dramatic scenery, and the freedom to pause and take it all in. By checking the weather, dressing properly, respecting the ocean and rivers, protecting nature, and using local advice, you can enjoy your outdoor meal safely.
From riverside views near Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, to island-dotted horizons near The Stykkishólmur Inn, to quiet fjords around Ísafjörður Inn, Ourhotels.is offers ideal bases for exploring West Iceland with a picnic basket in hand. With a bit of preparation and respect for the elements, your Iceland picnic will be as safe as it is unforgettable.
