Why Iceland feels alive

February 20, 2026 · Travel Tips

photographer: Héloïse Delbos :

Why Iceland Feels Alive

Iceland’s dramatic landscapes pulse with energy—from bubbling hot springs to thundering waterfalls. In the Westfjords and West Iceland, every fjord, glacier and lava field seems to breathe. Staying with Ourhotels.is puts you right at the heart of this living tapestry.

Stay Where the Action Is

Choose Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður for river views after a day exploring lava caves. If you head north to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, The Stykkishólmur Inn offers colorful harbor charm. And in Ísafjörður, Ísafjörður Inn provides cozy rooms tucked into a mountain amphitheater. Wherever you land, Ourhotels.is has the perfect base.

What to Do

  • Hike the rugged trails of Snæfellsjökull National Park
  • Soak in natural pools by the Hvítá river at Truck Inn
  • Join a boat tour to puffin colonies off the Westfjords coast
  • Chase waterfalls such as Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
  • Drive the scenic Westfjords ring road for jaw-dropping fjords

When to Go

Summer (June–August) brings the midnight sun and lush valleys. Winter (November–March) offers Northern Lights dances across the sky. Shoulder seasons—spring and autumn—mean fewer crowds and vibrant color shifts.

What to Pack

  • Waterproof, windproof jacket and pants
  • Layered clothing: thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers
  • Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
  • Swimwear for geothermal pools
  • Camera and extra batteries (cold drains power fast)
  • Daypack, reusable water bottle, and snacks

How Long to Stay

Plan for at least 5–7 days to truly feel Iceland’s rhythms in Westfjords and West Iceland. This allows time for immersive day trips, relaxed mornings in cozy inns, and the chance to chase both sunrise and sunset under the wide Arctic sky.

Iceland’s living landscape invites exploration, and Ourhotels.is is your gateway to unforgettable stays. Ready to experience a land that feels truly alive? Book your journey today at Ourhotels.is and let the adventure begin!