Blind Hills
What are blind hills, and what do I need to keep in mind when approaching one?
Rey
Last Update há um ano
What Is A Blind Hill?
Blind hills are most often found on narrow, often gravel roads, which creates the potential for dangerous head-on collisions.
They are common on older country roads and even on some stretches of the Ring Road, so it’s important to know how to handle them safely.
Many of Iceland’s rural roads were built decades ago. These older roads often follow the natural terrain instead of being levelled out. The roads go up and over hills, which creates these blind spots. Road improvements are ongoing, but you’ll still find plenty of blind hills during your travels around Iceland, especially in the countryside.
How To Spot A Blind Hill
Blind hills are marked by a unique road sign.
The sign will be two-fold:
- A yellow triangle with a red outline and a black exclamation mark in the middle.
- Below that, a yellow square with a red outline and an image depicting two cars driving up opposite sides of a hill, with the word "Blindhæð" written underneath.
Please find an image of the sign for a blind hill at the bottom of this page.
Who Has The Right Of Way?
The roads at blind hills are designed in such a way that they get wider at the top, allowing two cars driving in opposite directions more space to safely pass each other.
If done correctly, no one should need to stop or yield to the other.
How To Safely Approach A Blind Hill
Slow down early. As you notice the blind hill sign, and start to approach it, always reduce your speed as you get closer.
Keep right. Stay as far to the right side of the lane as possible, in case another car is coming from the opposite direction. This should provide enough space for both cars to pass without a problem.
Never overtake. Passing another vehicle is extremely dangerous on a blind hill.
Be prepared to stop. You may need to react quickly if there’s a car, sheep, or even a cyclist just over the crest.
Tip For Tourists Renting A Car In Iceland
