How to read Icelandic landscapes
February 9, 2026 · Travel Tips
Understanding Icelandic Landscapes
From sweeping fjords to volcanic plateaus, Iceland’s scenery tells a story written in rock, ice and water. Learning to read these landscapes can deepen your adventure and connect you to centuries of geological drama.
Volcanic Clues
Look for dark lava fields and layers of pumice—evidence of eruptions both ancient and recent. Smooth, black basalt columns often point to dramatic cooling of lava flows. These formations stand in stark contrast to the emerald moss that slowly reclaims the rock.
Glacial Footprints
Carved valleys, moraines and glacial rivers mark the slow movement of ice across the land. A U-shaped valley signals past glacial passage, while glacial silt gives rivers a milky blue-green hue. Visiting places like Hvítá in Borgarfjörður near Hvítá Inn makes these features impossible to miss.
Fjords and Coastlines
Iceland’s fjords are carved by ancient ice and sculpted by the tides. In the Westfjords, vertical cliffs meet calm inlets where you can spot seabirds. A stay at Truck Inn on the banks of the Hvítá river puts you right at the heart of these dramatic shorelines.
Practical Tips for Landscape Explorers
When to Go
- Summer (June–August) for midnight sun and green highlands
- Shoulder seasons (May & September) for fewer crowds and aurora sightings
What to Pack
- Layered clothing and waterproof outerwear
- Sturdy hiking boots and wool socks
- Binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
How Long to Stay
Plan for at least 3–5 days to explore multiple regions comfortably. Combine a few nights at The Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with a couple of nights at Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords for a perfect balance of mountains, coasts and charming towns.
Enhance Your Iceland Adventure
Staying with Ourhotels.is means handpicked locations, friendly service and easy booking. Whether you’re tracing lava flows near Hvítá Inn or watching puffins from the cliffs by Truck Inn, we’ll help you find the perfect basecamp. Book now at Ourhotels.is and start reading Iceland’s landscapes one step at a time.