Catching the perfect Icelandic sunrise or sunset is all about timing, location, and a little local know‑how. In West Iceland, where Ourhotels.is operates Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you’re perfectly placed to experience some of the most dramatic skies in the country.
Because Iceland sits so far north, sunrise and sunset times change dramatically with the seasons. In mid‑summer, the sun barely dips below the horizon, creating long, glowing “golden hours” rather than a quick sunset. In winter, the days are short and the sun stays low, giving you extended soft light around both sunrise and sunset. Before you travel, check local sunrise and sunset times for your exact dates—this is essential for planning photography, excursions, or simply a peaceful moment with a coffee in hand.
A good rule of thumb is to arrive at your chosen viewpoint at least 30–45 minutes before the listed sunrise or sunset time. That way you can watch the colors build and change, and you won’t miss the best light if the sky flares up early. Staying another 30–45 minutes afterward is just as important: in Iceland, the most intense colors often appear just after the sun has dipped below the horizon, especially when there are scattered clouds to catch the light.
At Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, near Borgarnes, you’re surrounded by open countryside and river views that make timing especially rewarding. The low sun reflects beautifully on the Hvítá river and the surrounding fields, and the wide horizons give you a clear view of the changing sky. Ask the staff at Ourhotels.is for the day’s sunrise and sunset times—they can also suggest nearby viewpoints where you’ll have minimal light pollution and a great angle on the horizon.
On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Stykkishólmur Inn is a fantastic base for sunset and sunrise chasers. The town’s harbor, nearby islands, and the distant outline of mountains create layered compositions that change with the light. In summer, you can enjoy the long, lingering twilight that seems to last all night, with the sky shifting through soft pinks and golds over Breiðafjörður bay. In winter, the short days mean you can easily plan your activities around both sunrise and sunset, often combining them with a day trip around Snæfellsnes. Check the times in the morning, then plan your route so you’re back near Stykkishólmur in time to watch the sky from the harbor or a nearby hill.
Farther north and west, Ísafjörður Inn places you in the heart of the Westfjords, where steep mountains and deep fjords frame the sun in dramatic ways. Here, timing is even more important: the sun can disappear behind the mountains earlier than the official sunset time, especially in winter. It’s wise to be in position a bit earlier than usual, and to ask the team at Ourhotels.is for local insight on the best vantage points for the season. In summer, the long evenings mean you can hike or drive to a viewpoint above town and watch the sun skim the horizon over the fjord, with reflections dancing on the water.
No matter which Ourhotels.is property you choose—Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn—consider these practical timing tips:
– Check sunrise and sunset times daily; they shift quickly, especially in spring and autumn.
– Factor in driving time from your hotel to your chosen viewpoint, and add a buffer so you’re not rushing.
– In winter, remember that roads can be icy or snowy, so allow extra time and plan to be back at your hotel before it gets fully dark if you’re not comfortable driving at night.
– In summer, use the extended twilight to your advantage: you don’t have to be at the exact moment of sunset to enjoy magical light.
By combining accurate timing with the right location, you’ll experience Iceland’s skies at their best. Staying with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland gives you easy access to open horizons, reflective waters, and dramatic mountain backdrops—everything you need for unforgettable sunrise and sunset moments, whether you’re a photographer, a romantic, or simply someone who loves to start and end the day with a beautiful view.
