The ‘one-lane bridge’ practice loop near Reykjavík: how to get comfortable early in your trip

Get Comfortable with One-Lane Bridges Early

Driving in Iceland is one of the best ways to see its raw beauty, but those narrow, one-lane bridges can feel intimidating at first. Just outside Reykjavík, there’s a perfect practice loop that helps you build confidence before you head deep into Westfjords or West Iceland. When you finish a day of driving, you can return to a cozy room at Ourhotels.is—perhaps at the charming Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes—to rest up and get ready for tomorrow’s adventure.

Why the Practice Loop Matters

One-lane bridges are everywhere in Iceland. Learning how to approach, slow down, and yield will make your journey smooth and stress-free. This practice loop:

• Starts on well-marked roads close to Reykjavík
• Includes multiple bridge types—wooden, concrete, and steel
• Has clear signs for priority rules
• Allows you to turn around easily and repeat tricky spots

How to Find the Loop

From Reykjavík, drive north on Route 1 and take the exit toward Mosfellsbær. Follow local signs for the Reykjadalur trail and you’ll spot the small turnoff leading to the practice bridges. The entire loop is less than 30 km, so you’ll be back in town in under an hour—plenty of time to explore downtown cafés or head on to your next Ourhotels.is property.

When to Go

For the easiest conditions, plan your practice drive between late May and early September. Days are long, weather is generally milder, and roads are clear of winter ice. If you travel in shoulder seasons (April or October), check local forecast updates and pack a set of winter tires—many rental companies include them automatically.

What to Pack

• Layered clothing: waterproof shell, fleece, and a warm hat
• Good hiking shoes (terrain can be muddy near riverbanks)
• Snacks and water—gas stations are sparse outside Reykjavík
• Camera or smartphone for scenic shots along the way
• Printable or offline map in case of limited mobile signal

How Long to Stay

We recommend spending at least two nights in the Reykjavík area. That gives you time to practice the loop, explore the city’s cultural highlights, and then make a relaxed drive to West Iceland. From Reykjavík, the Borgarfjörður region is about an hour away—perfect for an overnight stay at the welcoming Hvítá Inn, part of the Ourhotels.is collection.

Extend Your Road-Trip Comfort

Once you’ve mastered one-lane bridges, continue westward toward the stunning Westfjords. Consider stopping at the Truck Inn at Hvítá for hearty meals and rustic charm, or head north for the Ísafjörður Inn if fjord views are calling. Each property in the Ourhotels.is collection offers clean, cozy rooms—ideal for unwinding after a day behind the wheel.

Ready for your Icelandic road-trip confidence boost? Book your stay via Ourhotels.is today and make your driving adventure as smooth as those one-lane bridges you’ll now cross with ease!