Driving in Iceland is an adventure in itself, and for many visitors, that adventure includes gravel roads. These routes lead to waterfalls, hot springs, remote fjords, and quiet villages that most people never see from the Ring Road. Understanding how gravel roads work in Iceland will help you travel safely, protect your rental car, and enjoy the journey instead of stressing about it.
At Ourhotels.is, many of our guests arrive with questions about these roads—especially those staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. All three locations are perfect bases for exploring areas where gravel roads are common.
Gravel Roads in Iceland: What You Need to Know
Iceland’s road system is divided into paved roads (like most of Route 1, the Ring Road) and unpaved gravel roads, which are especially common in rural and highland areas. Even some numbered roads on the map can be gravel, so don’t assume a road is paved just because it has a number.
Gravel roads in Iceland can vary a lot:
– Some are wide and relatively smooth.
– Others are narrow, with loose stones and potholes.
– Many have no guardrails, especially in the Westfjords and mountain passes.
– Speeds can change quickly from paved to gravel sections.
You’ll often see a sign where the asphalt ends and gravel begins. This is your cue to slow down gently—sudden braking or turning on loose gravel is one of the main causes of accidents.
Why Gravel Roads Matter for Your Trip
Gravel roads affect:
– Driving time: Distances take longer than Google Maps suggests.
– Safety: Loose stones, dust, and changing surfaces require more attention.
– Rental cars: Many contracts have special rules about gravel damage and F-roads.
If you’re planning to explore beyond the main Ring Road—towards Borgarfjörður, Snæfellsnes, or the Westfjords—gravel roads will almost certainly be part of your itinerary. Staying at properties like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn gives you a comfortable base to return to after a day of exploring these routes.
Driving Tips for Icelandic Gravel Roads
To stay safe and relaxed on gravel:
1. Slow Down Gradually
When the surface changes from asphalt to gravel, ease off the accelerator and let your speed drop smoothly. Sudden braking can cause skidding.
2. Keep a Safe Distance
Gravel can fly up from the car in front of you and crack your windshield or paint. Leave extra space to reduce the risk of stone damage and to see better through dust clouds.
3. Avoid Sudden Movements
Steer gently and avoid sharp turns or quick lane changes. If you feel the car sliding, ease off the gas and steer calmly—don’t slam the brakes.
4. Watch for Loose Shoulders
The edges of gravel roads can be soft or uneven. Stay centered in your lane and avoid driving too close to the edge, especially on hills and in the Westfjords.
5. Use Lower Speeds on Hills and Curves
Many gravel roads have blind hills and tight corners. Slow down before the curve or hilltop so you’re prepared for oncoming traffic, sheep, or cyclists.
6. Respect Weather Conditions
Rain can create muddy, slippery surfaces; dry weather can mean dust and loose stones. In winter, gravel roads can be icy and are sometimes closed. Always check road.is and safetravel.is before you set out.
Gravel Roads Around Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður
Hvítá Inn, close to Borgarnes in Borgarfjörður, is surrounded by some of West Iceland’s most beautiful countryside. This region is a great introduction to gravel driving because many main roads are paved, with shorter gravel stretches leading to natural attractions.
From Hvítá Inn, you can easily reach:
– Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls – mostly paved access, with some smaller gravel side roads in the area.
– Hot springs and geothermal areas – often at the end of short gravel tracks.
– Quiet farm roads and river viewpoints – ideal for a gentle first experience on gravel.
Staying at Hvítá Inn means you can explore during the day and return to a peaceful riverside setting in the evening, with time to rest and plan the next day’s route. Ourhotels.is staff can help you choose routes that match your comfort level with gravel roads.
Gravel Roads on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – From Stykkishólmur Inn
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it has a bit of everything: mountains, lava fields, beaches, and fishing villages. Many main roads are paved, but some of the most interesting detours are on gravel.
From Stykkishólmur Inn, you can:
– Drive the main coastal roads on mostly paved surfaces.
– Take short gravel detours to viewpoints, lighthouses, and hidden beaches.
– Explore less-visited areas where you may share the road only with a few locals and some sheep.
Stykkishólmur itself is a charming harbor town with good services, making it a comfortable base for day trips. After a day of mixed paved and gravel driving, you can return to Stykkishólmur Inn, park the car, and enjoy the town’s restaurants and sea views.
Gravel Roads in the Westfjords – Around Ísafjörður Inn
The Westfjords are one of the most dramatic and remote regions in Iceland—and also one of the areas where gravel roads are most common. If you’re staying at Ísafjörður Inn, you’re perfectly placed to explore this wild landscape, but you should be prepared for more challenging driving.
In the Westfjords, you’ll encounter:
– Long stretches of gravel along fjords and over mountain passes.
– Narrow roads with steep drops and few guardrails.
– Changing conditions depending on weather and season.
From Ísafjörður Inn, you can explore:
– Nearby fjords and small villages, often connected by a mix of paved and gravel roads.
– Scenic viewpoints and hiking areas that require short gravel detours.
– Remote beaches and cliffs that reward careful, patient driving.
Many guests at Ísafjörður Inn choose to spend several nights in the area, giving themselves time to drive slowly, enjoy the scenery, and avoid rushing on gravel roads.
Car Types and Gravel Roads
Not every gravel road in Iceland requires a 4×4, but some do. F-roads (marked with an “F” on maps and signs) are mountain roads that are only for 4×4 vehicles and are usually closed in winter and spring. These roads often include river crossings and rough surfaces.
For most gravel roads around:
– Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður): A regular 2WD car is usually enough in summer, as long as you avoid F-roads.
– Stykkishólmur Inn (Snæfellsnes): Many attractions are reachable with a 2WD, with some optional gravel detours.
– Ísafjörður Inn (Westfjords): A 4×4 is recommended, especially if you plan to explore more remote areas or travel outside the summer months.
Always check your rental agreement to see where you’re allowed to drive and what kind of insurance you have for gravel damage.
Planning Your Trip with Ourhotels.is
Choosing the right base makes gravel-road travel much easier. Ourhotels.is offers comfortable stays in strategic locations across West and North Iceland, including:
– Hvítá Inn – Ideal for exploring Borgarfjörður, waterfalls, and gentle countryside gravel roads.
– Stykkishólmur Inn – Perfect for discovering the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with a mix of paved and gravel routes.
– Ísafjörður Inn – A great base for the Westfjords, where gravel roads are part of the adventure.
At each property, local staff can:
– Help you understand current road conditions.
– Suggest routes that match your driving experience.
– Recommend sights that are worth the gravel detour—and those that might be better skipped in poor weather.
Enjoying the Journey
Gravel roads in Iceland are not just obstacles; they’re often the paths that lead to the most memorable places. With the right preparation, a realistic schedule, and a comfortable place to stay each night, they become part of the experience rather than a source of stress.
By planning your route around welcoming bases like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn through Ourhotels.is, you can explore Iceland’s quieter corners at your own pace—safely, comfortably, and with time to enjoy every view along the way.
