Iceland’s dramatic landscapes come with equally dramatic weather, and strong winds are a normal part of life here—especially in the west. With a little preparation and local knowledge, you can enjoy every moment of your trip safely and comfortably.
At Ourhotels.is, our team lives with this weather every day, and we’re always happy to help you understand the forecast, plan your route, and adjust your plans if needed. Whether you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you’ll find staff who know the local conditions and can guide you.
Strong winds in Iceland can affect driving, walking near the coast, and even simple things like opening car doors. Before you head out, always check the weather at vedur.is and road conditions at road.is. If you’re unsure how to read the warnings, just ask at reception—our staff at all Ourhotels.is locations are used to explaining the color codes and what they mean in practical terms.
If you’re driving, take extra care with:
– **Car doors:** Hold them firmly when opening, especially in exposed parking areas. Sudden gusts can damage doors or injure you.
– **Bridges and mountain passes:** These can be much windier than the surrounding area. Ask our team at Hvítá Inn or Stykkishólmur Inn which routes are safest on windy days.
– **Light vehicles and roof boxes:** High winds can make driving unstable. If the forecast is bad, it may be safer to delay your trip and enjoy a relaxed day at the hotel instead.
Around the coast, the wind can make waves and spray much more powerful than they appear from a distance. In Stykkishólmur and Ísafjörður, it’s tempting to get close to the water for photos, but always keep a safe distance from the shoreline and never turn your back on the sea in stormy conditions. Our staff can recommend safe viewpoints where you can enjoy the power of nature without putting yourself at risk.
Clothing makes a big difference. A windproof outer layer, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable even when the wind picks up. At Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you might be heading out to explore waterfalls and hot springs; at Stykkishólmur Inn, you may be joining a boat tour; and at Ísafjörður Inn, you could be hiking or exploring fjords. In all cases, dressing for wind and sudden changes in weather will help you enjoy your day.
One of the advantages of staying with Ourhotels.is is having a safe, cozy base when the weather turns wild. If the wind becomes too strong for comfortable travel, you can:
– Spend time in our lounges with a book or a hot drink
– Ask reception for nearby short walks or viewpoints that are safe in current conditions
– Use the time to plan the next days of your trip with local advice
At Hvítá Inn, you’re perfectly placed to explore Borgarfjörður when conditions are calm, and to retreat quickly if the wind picks up. Stykkishólmur Inn offers a charming harbor town atmosphere, where you can enjoy cafés, museums, and views even on windy days. Ísafjörður Inn gives you access to the wild Westfjords, but also a sheltered town with culture, restaurants, and indoor activities when nature shows its rougher side.
The key to staying safe in heavy Icelandic winds is flexibility: listen to local advice, be willing to change your plans, and respect weather warnings. By doing so, you’ll not only stay safe—you’ll also experience Iceland the way locals do, working with nature rather than against it.
Ourhotels.is is here to help you make the most of your trip, in all kinds of weather. Wherever you stay—Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn—you’ll have a knowledgeable team ready to guide you, so you can enjoy Iceland’s powerful landscapes with confidence and peace of mind.
