Alexandra
Iceland's resident, publisher
3 Best ski resorts in Iceland and 5 off-piste skiing locations in Iceland


Skiing in Iceland
Skiing in Iceland offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with pristine slopes, breathtaking landscapes, and uncrowded ski resorts. The ski season typically from November to May, and guests can select from a variety of ski areas, including Hlíðarfjall, Bláfjöll, and Akureyri. Skiing in Iceland also provides the opportunity to combine winter sports with other activities, such as whale watching, Northern Lights tours, and visits to geothermal pools. With a welcoming local community and exceptional facilities, Iceland is a perfect destination for ski enthusiasts looking for adventure and a true Nordic experience.


1. Ski resorts in Iceland
  • Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort
  • Bláfjöll Ski Resort
  • Skálafell Ski Resort
2. Off-piste skiing in Iceland
2.1. Popular off-piste skiing locations
2.2. Safety tips for off-piste skiing
3. Ski touring in Iceland
3.1. Popular ski touring locations
3.2. Benefits of ski touring in Iceland
4. Best time to visit Iceland for skiing

1. Ski resorts in Iceland
Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort, located in the northern city of Akureyri, is a premier destination for skiing in Iceland. With stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains, this resort boasts 7 lifts and over 20 ski runs for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
The resort's terrain includes groomed slopes, off-piste areas, and a terrain park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. Visitors can also take lessons from the ski school for all ages and abilities. Hlíðarfjall is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great destination for a winter vacation with loved ones.
In addition to skiing, visitors to Hlíðarfjall can enjoy additional winter activities, such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights tours. The resort also offers a range of dining choices, including a cozy café and a restaurant with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort is a must-visit destination for any skiing enthusiast traveling to Iceland. With its stunning scenery, welcoming community, and exceptional facilities, this resort is a true winter wonderland that should not be missed.

Bláfjöll Ski Resort, situated just a short drive from Reykjavik, is the largest ski resort in Iceland. With 16 lifts and over 20 ski runs, this resort provides a great variety of terrain for skiers of all levels.
The resort's slopes offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, providing a truly unique and picturesque setting for skiing. The terrain includes groomed runs, moguls, and off-piste opportunities, as well as a terrain park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
Visitors to Bláfjöll Ski Resort can also take advantage of the ski school, offering lessons for both children and adults, as well as rental equipment and a repair shop. The resort also offers a range of dining options, including a café, restaurant, and bar.
In addition to skiing, visitors to Bláfjöll can also enjoy other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and even heli-skiing. The resort is also conveniently located near Reykjavik, allowing for easy access to the city's vibrant culture and nightlife.
Bláfjöll Ski Resort is a fantastic destination for skiing enthusiasts visiting Iceland. With its vast terrain, stunning scenery, and exceptional facilities, this resort offers an unforgettable winter experience for skiers of all levels.

Skálafell Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing in Iceland, located just a short drive from the capital city of Reykjavik. With six lifts and nine runs, this resort provides a more intimate skiing experience compared to the larger resorts in the country.
Despite its smaller size, Skálafell offers a great variety of terrain for skiers of all levels, including groomed runs, moguls, and off-piste areas. The resort also includes a terrain park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers, as well as a ski school offering lessons for children and adults.
Visitors to Skálafell Ski Resort can also enjoy other winter activities, such as snowmobiling and Northern Lights tours, and take advantage of the resort's cozy café and restaurant.
What sets Skálafell apart from other ski resorts in Iceland is its unique location on the slopes of Mount Esja. The mountain provides a breathtaking backdrop for skiers, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and ocean.

If you're looking for a more intimate and relaxed skiing experience in Iceland, Skálafell Ski Resort is definitely worth a visit. With its stunning scenery, exceptional facilities, and range of winter activities, this resort offers a true winter wonderland experience for all.

2. Off-piste skiing in Iceland
2.1 Popular off-piste skiing locations in Iceland

Iceland is a mecca for adventurous skiers and snowboarders looking for off-piste terrain. Off-piste skiing in Iceland offers a unique and exhilarating experience, with untracked powder, breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of exploring new terrain.

Here are some of the most popular off-piste skiing locations in Iceland:
  1. Þríhnúkagígur: This remote area located in the north-central part of the country offers a variety of off-piste terrain, including steep chutes and open bowls.
  2. Hornstrandir: This remote peninsula in the Westfjords region of Iceland provides access to incredible backcountry skiing with untracked powder and stunning coastal views.
  3. Súlur: This mountain, located just outside of Akureyri, offers a range of off-piste terrain for skiers of all levels. The terrain includes steep chutes, open bowls, and tree runs.
  4. Snæfellsjökull: This glacier-capped volcano on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a unique off-piste skiing experience with incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
  5. Fimmvörðuháls: This area, located in the south of Iceland, offers a challenging backcountry skiing experience with steep chutes, exposed ridgelines, and incredible views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.
When skiing off-piste in Iceland, it's important to take safety precautions, such as traveling with a guide or experienced partner, carrying the necessary equipment (including an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe), and being aware of local weather and snow conditions. With proper preparation and planning, off-piste skiing in Iceland can be an unforgettable and thrilling experience for any adventurous skier or snowboarder.

2.2 Safety tips for off-piste skiing in Iceland
Off-piste skiing in Iceland offers a unique and exhilarating experience, but it's important to take safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some safety tips for off-piste skiing in Iceland:
  1. Plan ahead: Before heading out, research your route and familiarize yourself with the terrain and local weather conditions. Check for avalanche forecasts and ensure you have the proper equipment, including an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe.
  2. Hire a guide: Consider hiring an experienced guide who knows the local terrain and can provide valuable safety advice. They can also help you navigate the terrain and make informed decisions about when and where to ski.
  3. Travel in groups: Always ski with a partner or group and stay within sight and hearing distance of each other. If an avalanche occurs, having a partner or group can increase the chances of survival.
  4. Know how to use your equipment: Practice using your avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe before heading out on your trip. It's important to know how to use your equipment properly in case of an emergency.
  5. Be aware of changing conditions: Weather and snow conditions can change quickly in Iceland, so be aware of any changes and adjust your plans accordingly. Avoid skiing in areas with unstable snowpacks or where the risk of avalanches is high.
  6. Respect the environment: Off-piste skiing can have a significant impact on the environment, so be sure to respect the local terrain and wildlife. Stay on designated trails and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the incredible off-piste skiing opportunities that Iceland has to offer while minimizing risks and ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

3 Ski touring in Iceland
Ski touring in Iceland offers a unique and rewarding experience for adventurous skiers. With vast stretches of untracked terrain, breathtaking scenery, and a relatively unspoiled environment, Iceland is a top destination for ski touring enthusiasts.

3.1 Here are some popular ski-touring locations in Iceland:
  1. Troll Peninsula: This mountain range in the north of Iceland offers a range of ski touring terrain, from gentle slopes to steep couloirs. The area is known for its deep powder and stunning coastal views.
  2. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve: This remote wilderness area in the Westfjords region of Iceland is a popular destination for ski touring. The area offers untracked terrain, stunning fjord views, and the opportunity to see arctic foxes and other wildlife.
  3. Langjökull Glacier: Iceland's second-largest glacier is a popular destination for ski touring. The area offers a unique opportunity to ski on a glacier, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  4. Eyjafjallajökull Volcano: This active volcano on the south coast of Iceland offers a unique ski touring experience, with the opportunity to ski on the slopes of an active volcano. The area offers incredible views of the surrounding glaciers and the coast.
Ski touring in Iceland requires experience and proper equipment, including ski-touring boots, skis with touring bindings, and skins. It's also important to be prepared for changing weather conditions and to have the necessary safety equipment, including avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes.
The benefits of ski touring in Iceland are many, including the opportunity to explore untracked terrain, challenge oneself physically and mentally, and connect with nature in a unique and meaningful way. With proper planning, preparation, and safety measures, ski touring in Iceland can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

3.2 Benefits of ski touring in Iceland
Ski touring in Iceland offers a range of benefits for adventurous skiers, including:
  1. Untracked terrain: Ski touring in Iceland offers the opportunity to explore vast stretches of untracked terrain with the freedom to ski where you want when you want.
  2. Stunning scenery: Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, from towering mountains and glaciers to stunning coastal vistas. Ski touring in Iceland offers the chance to experience this scenery up close and in a unique and intimate way.
  3. Physical challenge: Ski touring requires physical fitness, endurance, and mental toughness, making it a rewarding challenge for those who enjoy pushing themselves to their limits.
  4. Connection with nature: Ski touring in Iceland offers a chance to connect with nature in a meaningful and immersive way, away from the crowds and noise of urban life.
  5. Adventure: Ski touring in Iceland offers a sense of adventure and exploration, with the thrill of discovering new terrain and experiencing the unknown.
  6. Sustainable tourism: Ski touring in Iceland offers a sustainable and low-impact form of tourism with a focus on respecting and preserving the local environment and culture.
Overall, ski touring in Iceland offers a unique and rewarding experience for those who are willing to venture off the beaten path and explore the rugged and unspoiled terrain of this beautiful country.

Best time to visit Iceland for skiing
The best time to visit Iceland for skiing depends on your personal preferences and the type of skiing you plan to do. Here are some facts to know:
  1. Snow conditions: The winter months of December through March generally offer the best snow conditions for skiing in Iceland, with ample snowfall and cold temperatures. However, snow conditions can vary from year to year, so it's important to check the current snow conditions before planning your trip.
  2. Daylight hours: Iceland experiences long hours of darkness during the winter months, with only a few hours of daylight each day. This can limit the amount of skiing you can do during daylight hours and can also affect the quality of the skiing experience.
  3. Northern Lights: The winter months also offer the best chance to see the Northern Lights, which can be a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
  4. Crowds: The winter months can be less crowded than the summer months, offering a quieter and more intimate skiing experience.
Overall, the best time to visit Iceland for skiing is typically between December and March, when the snow conditions are generally the best. However, it's important to consider other factors, such as daylight hours and crowds, as well as your personal preferences for temperature and weather conditions.

In conclusion, Iceland is a unique and exciting destination for skiers looking to explore new terrain and experience stunning natural beauty. From the ski resorts of Hlíðarfjall, Bláfjöll, and Skálafell to the off-piste skiing locations and ski touring routes, Iceland offers a range of options for skiers of all levels and interests. Whether you're looking for a challenging physical and mental adventure or a chance to connect with nature and explore the unknown, Iceland has something to offer. And with its sustainable and low-impact tourism practices, Iceland is also a great choice for those who want to travel responsibly and protect the environment. So why not plan your next skiing adventure in Iceland? With its breathtaking scenery, unique culture, and endless possibilities for exploration, Iceland is sure to provide a memorable and rewarding skiing experience.

Made on
Tilda