Driving in West Iceland is an unforgettable experience – sweeping lava fields, glittering fjords, and… sheep. Lots of sheep. If you’re exploring the region and staying with Ourhotels.is – whether at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords – you’re almost guaranteed to meet a few woolly locals on the road.
Knowing what to do when a sheep is on the road is an important part of safe and respectful travel in Iceland. Here’s how to handle it calmly and safely.
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### Why Are There So Many Sheep on Icelandic Roads?
In summer, Icelandic sheep roam freely in the countryside. Farmers release them to graze in the highlands and valleys, and they often wander across or along the roads. This is especially common on smaller country roads near:
– **Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður** – surrounded by farmland and river valleys
– **Stykkishólmur Inn** – with access to scenic coastal and inland routes on Snæfellsnes
– **Ísafjörður Inn** – in the heart of the Westfjords, where sheep and narrow roads go hand in hand
Being prepared helps you stay safe and protect both animals and your rental car.
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### What to Do When You See a Sheep on the Road
1. **Slow Down Early**
As soon as you spot a sheep near or on the road, gently reduce your speed. Don’t slam the brakes unless absolutely necessary – just ease off the accelerator and brake smoothly.
2. **Stay Calm and Patient**
Sheep can be unpredictable, especially if lambs are nearby. They may suddenly run across the road, even if they seem to be moving away. Give them time and space.
3. **Keep a Safe Distance**
Don’t drive right up to the animal. Stay far enough back that you can stop safely if it changes direction. If there are lambs on one side and the mother on the other, expect them to cross.
4. **Do Not Honk Aggressively**
A gentle tap on the horn can sometimes encourage a sheep to move, but loud or repeated honking can panic them and cause them to run in unexpected directions. Use the horn sparingly, if at all.
5. **Pass Slowly and Carefully**
When the road is clear and the sheep have moved to the side, pass them at a very low speed. Be ready to brake again – they can suddenly dart back onto the road.
6. **Watch for More Sheep**
Where there is one sheep, there are often more. After passing, continue driving slowly and keep scanning the roadside.
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### Extra Tips for Driving Safely Around Sheep in West Iceland
– **Expect sheep on rural roads**
Around **Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður**, you’ll find beautiful river landscapes and farmland. This is prime sheep country, so drive especially carefully on gravel roads and blind hills.
– **Take your time on scenic routes**
When staying at **Stykkishólmur Inn**, many guests explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The views are stunning, but don’t rush. Slower driving not only keeps you safe around sheep, it also lets you enjoy the coastline and mountains.
– **Be extra cautious in the Westfjords**
Near **Ísafjörður Inn**, roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes without guardrails. Combine that with sheep on the roadside, and it’s essential to drive slowly, especially around bends and on mountain passes.
– **Follow the speed limits**
Speed limits in Iceland are set with animals, weather, and road conditions in mind. On gravel roads, the limit is usually lower – and for good reason.
– **Avoid sudden swerving**
If a sheep runs into the road, your instinct might be to swerve. Try to brake in a controlled way instead. Swerving sharply can be more dangerous, especially on narrow or gravel roads.
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### Why This Matters: Safety, Respect, and Responsibility
Sheep are an important part of Icelandic culture and farming. Hitting one can be traumatic, cause serious damage to your car, and may result in costs and paperwork with the farmer and rental company.
By driving carefully:
– You protect yourself and your passengers
– You respect local farmers and their animals
– You help keep Iceland’s countryside peaceful and safe for everyone
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### Staying with Ourhotels.is and Exploring Safely
Ourhotels.is properties are perfectly placed for exploring some of the most beautiful – and sheep-filled – regions of West Iceland:
– **Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður**
Ideal for exploring waterfalls, hot springs, and green valleys where sheep graze freely.
– **Stykkishólmur Inn – Stykkishólmur**
A cozy base for discovering the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with its mix of mountains, lava fields, and coastal farms.
– **Ísafjörður Inn – Ísafjörður**
In the dramatic Westfjords, where winding roads, deep fjords, and free-roaming sheep create a truly wild Icelandic experience.
Our staff are always happy to share up-to-date tips on road conditions, local driving habits, and what to expect on nearby routes. If you’re unsure about a drive, just ask at reception before you head out.
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Traveling in West Iceland means sharing the road with nature. When a sheep steps into your path, take it as a reminder to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the landscape. With a bit of patience and care, you’ll stay safe, protect the animals, and make the most of your stay with Ourhotels.is.
