Driving in Iceland in winter can be magical: snow-dusted mountains, frozen waterfalls, and crisp, clear air. But it also demands preparation. If you’re planning to rent a car and explore West Iceland in the colder months, a bit of knowledge goes a long way toward keeping your trip safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
At Ourhotels.is, many of our guests arrive by rental car, especially those staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes), Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords. Here are the winter car rental essentials we recommend to everyone.
First, always choose a car that’s suitable for Icelandic winter conditions. Look for a vehicle with good ground clearance and winter tires as standard. In many cases, a 4×4 is the best option, especially if you’re heading toward the Westfjords and Ísafjörður Inn, where roads can be snowier and more remote. When booking your stay through Ourhotels.is, you can often coordinate your car rental at the same time, making it easier to match your vehicle to your planned route.
Before you drive off, take a few minutes to inspect the car. Check that the winter tires are in good condition, the windshield wipers work well, and that there’s an ice scraper and snow brush in the vehicle. Ask the rental company how to use the car’s lights, fog lights, and any 4×4 or driving modes. In winter, you’ll rely on these features a lot, especially when driving between Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður and Stykkishólmur Inn, where you may encounter changing weather and road surfaces.
Weather and road conditions can change quickly in Iceland, so staying informed is essential. Before each drive, check the official road conditions and weather forecasts. This is particularly important if you’re planning to drive from Stykkishólmur Inn to Ísafjörður Inn, as the route can include mountain passes and coastal roads that are more exposed to wind, snow, and ice. Ourhotels.is staff are always happy to help you interpret local forecasts and suggest the safest travel times.
Pack a small winter “car kit” to keep in the vehicle. Include warm layers, gloves, a hat, a reflective vest, a flashlight, a power bank for your phone, and some water and snacks. Even though the main roads to Hvítá Inn and Stykkishólmur Inn are well-traveled, it’s wise to be prepared in case you need to wait for a snowplow or assistance. In the Westfjords, where Ísafjörður Inn is located, distances between services can be longer, making a basic emergency kit even more important.
Driving style matters as much as equipment. In winter, slow down and increase your following distance. Black ice can be hard to see, especially at dawn and dusk. Use gentle steering, braking, and acceleration to avoid skidding. If you’re not used to winter driving, consider planning shorter daily routes—such as a relaxed drive from Reykjavík to Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður—so you can get comfortable with the conditions before tackling longer journeys to Stykkishólmur or Ísafjörður.
Fuel and charging planning is another winter essential. If you’re driving a petrol or diesel car, don’t let the tank drop too low, particularly when heading toward more remote areas like the Westfjords. For electric or hybrid vehicles, plan your charging stops in advance and allow extra time in cold weather. The team at Ourhotels.is can help you identify convenient fuel and charging points near Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn.
One of the biggest advantages of staying with Ourhotels.is properties in winter is local knowledge. At Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, staff can advise you on the best times to drive to nearby attractions like Hraunfossar and Deildartunguhver in winter conditions. At Stykkishólmur Inn, you can get up-to-date tips on road conditions around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, including which routes are most scenic and safe on a given day. In Ísafjörður, the team at Ísafjörður Inn can share insights on Westfjords winter driving, from tunnel etiquette to which mountain roads are open or closed.
Finally, build flexibility into your itinerary. Winter in Iceland rewards those who are willing to adapt. If the weather turns, consider staying an extra night at Hvítá Inn, exploring the cozy cafés of Borgarnes, or enjoying the peaceful harbor atmosphere around Stykkishólmur Inn instead of pushing on in poor conditions. In Ísafjörður, a “weather day” can turn into a memorable experience of local culture, museums, and restaurants, all within walking distance of Ísafjörður Inn.
With the right car, proper preparation, and a flexible mindset, winter driving in Iceland can be one of the highlights of your trip. By combining a well-chosen rental vehicle with comfortable, well-located stays at Ourhotels.is properties—Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn—you’ll be ready to experience the best of West Iceland’s winter landscapes safely and confidently.
