Why self-drive suits Iceland perfectly

Why Self-Drive is the Perfect Way to Discover Iceland

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of hitting the open road in Iceland. From hidden waterfalls tucked behind mountains to sweeping coastal vistas, a self-drive itinerary lets you set your own pace, explore off-the-beaten-path gems and stop wherever and whenever you choose.

Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

With a car at your disposal, you can chase waterfalls at dawn, linger at black-sand beaches or veer off the Ring Road onto gravel tracks leading to remote highlands. Imagine watching the midnight sun in summer or chasing northern lights without a tour schedule holding you back.

When to Go

• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, lush landscapes, easier F-road access.
• Shoulder seasons (May & September): Fewer crowds, milder rates, chance of autumn colors or early snow.
• Winter (October–March): Northern lights, glacier caves, fewer tourists—but check road conditions.

What to Pack

• Layered clothing: wool base layers, fleece mid-layer, waterproof outer shell
• Sturdy hiking boots and extra socks
• Chargers, power bank and spare camera batteries
• Reusable water bottle and snacks for long drives
• Printed map or GPS with offline maps

How Long to Stay

For a full Ring Road experience, plan on 7–10 days. If you’re focusing on Westfjords & West Iceland, 4–6 days lets you explore dramatic fjords, geothermal pools and quaint fishing villages at a relaxed pace.

Where to Rest Your Head

After a day behind the wheel, unwind in warm comfort at Ourhotels.is. Nestled close to Borgarnes, Hvítá Inn is the perfect base to explore the stunning Borgarfjörður region and nearby hot springs. If you veer further north, Ísafjörður Inn offers cozy rooms overlooking the fjord—ideal for sampling fresh seafood and local charm.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

• Book in advance: secure your car rental and rooms via Ourhotels.is for the best rates.
• Fuel stops: plan ahead—some stretches have long distances between stations.
• Road conditions: check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website daily.
• Insurance: consider gravel protection and winter tire options for safety.

Ready to embark on the ultimate Icelandic adventure? Pack your bags, download your route and book your stays through Ourhotels.is. Your self-drive dream awaits!