Understanding Icelandic weather is key to enjoying your trip, especially in the wild and wonderful west of Iceland. The island sits where cold Arctic air meets warmer Atlantic systems, so conditions can change quickly—sometimes dramatically—within a single day. That’s part of the magic, but it also means a bit of preparation goes a long way.
Iceland has four distinct seasons, yet each can bring a mix of sun, rain, wind, and even snow—sometimes within a few hours. In winter, you can expect short days, dancing northern lights, crisp air, and occasional storms. Temperatures are often milder than many visitors expect, usually hovering around freezing along the coast, but wind and humidity can make it feel colder. In summer, long days and the midnight sun create ideal conditions for exploring waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and coastal villages in the west, with temperatures typically between 10–15°C, sometimes warmer on calm, clear days.
The west of Iceland, where Ourhotels.is properties are located, often experiences slightly milder coastal conditions than the highlands but can still be very changeable. A sunny, calm morning can turn into a windy, rainy afternoon, and then clear again by evening. This is why Icelanders often say, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes.” When you stay with Ourhotels.is, reception teams are used to these quick shifts and can help you read local forecasts, adjust your plans, and choose the best times of day to visit nearby attractions.
Wind plays a major role in how the weather feels. A strong Atlantic breeze can turn light rain into sideways showers and quickly chill exposed skin, even in summer. Layered clothing is more important than heavy clothing: a base layer to keep you dry, a warm mid-layer like wool or fleece, and a waterproof, windproof shell. Sturdy, waterproof shoes are essential for exploring the western fjords, cliffs, and lava fields. Ourhotels.is staff are happy to advise what to wear for specific excursions, whether you’re heading to a glacier lookout, a coastal hike, or a hot spring.
Daylight also changes dramatically through the year. In winter, especially from November to January, days are short, with long twilight hours that create a soft, atmospheric light for photography. This is also prime northern lights season when skies are clear. Guests at Ourhotels.is often appreciate being able to step straight from their room into the fresh night air to scan the sky for auroras, then return quickly to warmth and comfort. In summer, the nearly endless daylight means you can plan flexible itineraries—starting later in the day, avoiding crowds at popular spots, or enjoying late-evening walks by the ocean.
Rain is common but usually comes in light or moderate showers rather than long, heavy downpours. Having a light waterproof jacket or shell in your daypack makes it easy to keep exploring in changing conditions. The western region offers many indoor and sheltered options—museums, cozy cafés, geothermal pools—so you can simply shift your plans if the weather briefly turns. The team at Ourhotels.is can suggest weather-friendly alternatives nearby, from scenic drives to hot springs that are especially magical in mist and drizzle.
Snow is most likely from late autumn through early spring. Coastal areas in the west are often snow-dusted rather than deeply covered, but roads can still become slippery. Always check driving conditions and local warnings, especially in winter months. Staying at Ourhotels.is gives you a reliable home base where you can monitor updated conditions, ask for driving tips, and adjust your route safely. If a storm is forecast, it’s often best to plan shorter excursions or enjoy the facilities and views around your hotel until conditions improve.
The best way to embrace Icelandic weather is to view it as part of the experience, not an obstacle. Mist over the mountains, fast-moving clouds, sudden shafts of sunlight, and wind-whipped seas all create the dramatic landscapes visitors come to see. With flexible plans and the right gear, every kind of weather offers something unique—sharp, clear days for photography, soft grey skies for moody seascapes, or snowy evenings for hot-tub soaks under the open sky.
Ourhotels.is is here to help you navigate it all. From offering local insight on the day’s forecast to suggesting the best nearby spots for the conditions, our hotels in west Iceland give you both comfort and confidence as you explore. By understanding Icelandic weather—and having a knowledgeable local team on your side—you’ll be able to travel safely, stay comfortable, and fully enjoy the ever-changing beauty of this remarkable part of the world.
