Winter in Iceland is magical: snow-dusted mountains, dancing northern lights, and crisp, clear air. But that same winter beauty also demands extra care on the road. If you’re planning a self-drive trip in Iceland between October and April, it’s essential to understand how to drive safely in changing conditions—especially in West Iceland, where Ourhotels.is has comfortable bases like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn.
Below are practical, local-style winter driving tips to help you travel safely and confidently.
Driving in Icelandic winter conditions
Icelandic winter roads can change from clear and dry to icy and windy within minutes. You might start your day on bare asphalt near Borgarnes and end it on snow-covered roads in the Westfjords. Always assume conditions will change and plan with flexibility.
Before you set off each day, check:
– Road conditions: road.is (Vegagerðin – the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration)
– Weather forecast: vedur.is (Icelandic Met Office)
Both sites are updated frequently and are your best friends for safe winter driving in Iceland.
Choose the right car and equipment
For winter driving in Iceland, a suitable vehicle and proper tires are crucial.
– Prefer a 4×4 or AWD: Especially if you’re heading to Snæfellsnes, the Westfjords, or more remote areas.
– Winter tires: All rental cars should have winter tires in season; confirm this when you pick up your car.
– Ground clearance: Helpful on snowy or slushy roads, particularly if you’re driving towards Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords.
– Emergency gear: Keep warm clothing, a charged phone, snacks, water, and a scraper/brush in the car.
If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður or Stykkishólmur Inn, the staff can help you assess whether your vehicle is suitable for the day’s planned route.
Adjust your speed and distance
Speed limits in Iceland are maximums, not targets—especially in winter.
– Drive slower than the posted limit when roads are icy, snowy, or wet.
– Increase following distance significantly; icy roads mean much longer braking distances.
– Brake gently and early; avoid sudden steering or acceleration.
– Use lower gears on downhill stretches to maintain control.
On the way from Borgarnes to Stykkishólmur, for example, you may encounter stretches of black ice even when the weather looks calm. Taking it slow is not just safer—it also lets you enjoy the scenery.
Watch for black ice and changing surfaces
Black ice is one of the biggest hazards in Icelandic winter driving. It’s a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that often forms:
– On bridges
– In shaded areas
– Near rivers and the coastline
– Early in the morning and after sunset
If the road looks slightly shiny or “wet” when temperatures are around or below 0°C, assume it might be icy. Keep your movements smooth and avoid sudden braking or turning.
Respect wind and weather warnings
Strong winds can be more dangerous than snow. In some areas, wind gusts can make it difficult to keep control of your car or even damage car doors if opened carelessly.
– Always check wind speed on vedur.is, not just temperature and precipitation.
– If there are travel warnings or road closures, do not attempt to drive.
– Open car doors with two hands and hold them firmly, especially in exposed areas like Snæfellsnes or the Westfjords.
If you’re staying at Ísafjörður Inn, it’s common for locals to adjust plans around wind and snow. Ask the reception for the latest local advice—they know the roads and typical trouble spots well.
Use daylight wisely
In mid-winter, daylight hours are short. In West Iceland and the Westfjords, you may only have a few hours of good light.
– Plan your driving for daylight as much as possible.
– Start early and aim to arrive at your next hotel before dark.
– Avoid long, unfamiliar routes late in the day.
A good strategy is to use your base—such as Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn—for shorter day trips, returning before nightfall. This way, you enjoy the winter landscape without the stress of long night drives.
Stay on marked roads and respect closures
Iceland’s winter landscapes can be tempting, but it’s vital to stay on open, marked roads.
– Never drive on closed roads; they are closed for safety reasons.
– Do not attempt mountain passes or remote routes if they’re marked as difficult or impassable on road.is.
– Avoid off-road driving at all times—it’s illegal and damages fragile nature.
In the Westfjords, for example, some roads can close suddenly due to snow or avalanche risk. When you’re based at Ísafjörður Inn, check each morning which routes are open and safe.
Know when to stop or change plans
One of the most important winter driving skills in Iceland is flexibility.
– If conditions worsen, turn back or find a safe place to wait it out.
– Don’t feel pressured to “stick to the plan” if the weather disagrees.
– Use your hotel as a safe, warm base and adjust your itinerary.
Staff at Ourhotels.is properties, including Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, are used to helping guests re-plan routes around storms or closures. They can suggest alternative sights, safer routes, or even cozy “stay-in” days when the weather is wild.
Local tips for West Iceland and the Westfjords
– Around Borgarfjörður and Hvítá Inn: Expect mixed conditions—wet roads, occasional ice, and snow in higher areas. Bridges and river valleys can be especially icy.
– Around Stykkishólmur Inn on Snæfellsnes: Coastal winds and sudden squalls are common. Road surfaces can change quickly from dry to icy, especially near the north coast of the peninsula.
– Around Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords: Roads can be narrow with steep sides and tunnels. Snow, ice, and wind are frequent in winter, so extra caution and a suitable vehicle are essential.
Drive rested and take breaks
Winter driving requires more concentration. Make sure you:
– Get enough sleep before long drives
– Take regular breaks to rest and enjoy the views
– Stay hydrated and keep some snacks in the car
Using Ourhotels.is locations as stepping stones—Borgarfjörður to Stykkishólmur to Ísafjörður—helps you break your journey into manageable, enjoyable segments rather than rushing long distances in one day.
Enjoy Iceland’s winter safely
With the right preparation, winter driving in Iceland can be a rewarding part of your adventure. You’ll have the freedom to chase the northern lights, explore quiet fjords, and discover small towns at your own pace.
By checking the weather and road conditions, choosing the right car, driving slowly and carefully, and using comfortable bases like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you can experience the best of Iceland’s winter while staying safe on the road.
Ourhotels.is is here to be your warm, welcoming stop between winter journeys—so you can focus on the beauty outside, knowing you have a cozy place to return to at the end of each day.
