Why time feels generous

February 20, 2026 · Travel Tips

photographer: Héloïse Delbos :

Why Time Feels Generous in Westfjords & West Iceland

When you arrive in West Iceland, the pace slows and every moment stretches like a soft Icelandic wool blanket. Ourhotels.is invites you to experience this gift of time with a stay at Hvítá Inn, nestled alongside the gentle currents of the Hvítá River. Here, hours feel like minutes of calm, and days unfold at your own leisurely pace.

Slow Mornings at Hvítá Inn

Wake up to birdsong and panoramic river views. After a hearty breakfast of local cheeses and rye bread, you have all the time in the world to explore Borgarfjörður’s hidden gems. Sip coffee on your private balcony. Stroll riverbanks. Feel how every second stretches just a little longer.

What to Do

  • Discover Hraunfossar & Barnafoss waterfalls – easy hikes with breathtaking scenery.
  • Relax in the Deildartunguhver hot springs, Europe’s most powerful.
  • Join a guided glacier walk on Langjökull or a river kayaking trip.
  • In the Westfjords, stay at Ísafjörður Inn and take a boat tour to see puffins, whales, and dramatic fjord cliffs.
  • Evening strolls along Stykkishólmur’s colorful harbor, if you choose The Stykkishólmur Inn for your coastal escape.

When to Go

Mid-June to early September offers nearly 24 hours of daylight and mild temperatures. For fewer crowds, consider May or late September—autumn hues paint the landscape, and the Northern Lights might dance overhead as days gently shorten.

What to Pack

  • Layered clothing – fleece, waterproof jacket, and thermal base layers.
  • Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots.
  • Swimsuit and quick-dry towel for natural hot springs.
  • Daypack, reusable water bottle, and binoculars for wildlife spotting.
  • Camera or smartphone with waterproof case to capture unhurried moments.

How Long to Stay

A minimum of 4 nights lets you unwind, explore at a relaxed pace, and savor hidden corners. For a deeper journey—exploring both Borgarfjörður and the Westfjords—plan 7 to 10 nights to fully embrace Iceland’s timeless magic.

Book Your Time-Expanding Getaway

Let time stretch in your favor. Reserve your room at Hvítá Inn or Ísafjörður Inn through Ourhotels.is and discover why every second in West Iceland feels like a generous gift. Book now for the slowest, richest moments of your life.