Borgarnes Travel Guide

Borgarnes Travel Guide, Iceland

Borgarnes is a charming coastal town in western Iceland, located about 75 kilometers (47 miles) north of Reykjavik. Known for its stunning landscapes, historical significance, and welcoming community, Borgarnes serves as a great base for exploring the natural wonders of West Iceland. Here’s a complete guide to help you make the most of your visit to Borgarnes:

Overview

• Location: West Iceland, on a peninsula in Borgarfjörður.
• Population: Approximately 1,800 residents.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for mild weather and long daylight hours. Winter (November to March) for Northern Lights.

Getting There

• By Car: A one-hour drive from Reykjavik on Route 1, which crosses the scenic Hvalfjörður Tunnel.
• By Bus: Scheduled buses connect Borgarnes to Reykjavik and other towns in West Iceland.
• By Air: Closest international airport is Keflavik International Airport (Reykjavik). From there, drive or take a bus to Borgarnes.

Top Attractions

1. The Settlement Center (Landnámssetur Íslands)

• A museum dedicated to Iceland’s Viking history and the Saga of Egil Skallagrímsson.
• Features interactive exhibits, a guided audio tour, and historical storytelling.
• A great starting point to learn about Iceland’s early settlers.

2. Borgarnes Waterfront and Old Town

• Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront, which offers beautiful views of Borgarfjörður Bay.
• Visit the old town area with traditional Icelandic architecture and small local shops.
• Enjoy the tranquility and watch seabirds in their natural habitat.

3. Skallagrímsgarður Park

• A lush park named after the famous Viking settler, Skallagrímur Kveldúlfsson.
• Perfect for a picnic, short hike, or to enjoy the scenery of the Icelandic countryside.
• Includes sculptures, walking paths, and picnic areas.

4. Borgarnes Swimming Pool

• A modern swimming complex with geothermal pools, hot tubs, and a sauna.
• Great for relaxation, especially in the colder months.
• Open year-round and offers family-friendly facilities.

5. Hafnarfjall Mountain

• A popular hiking destination just outside Borgarnes.
• The hike offers panoramic views of the bay, Borgarfjörður, and surrounding landscapes.
• Suitable for experienced hikers; weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared.

Day Trips from Borgarnes

1. Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls

• A one-hour drive from Borgarnes to see these stunning waterfalls in Borgarfjörður.
• Hraunfossar consists of a series of streams flowing through lava fields, while Barnafoss is a fast-flowing, narrow waterfall with a tragic folklore history.

2. Reykholt and Deildartunguhver

• Visit the historical town of Reykholt, home to Iceland’s famous medieval poet, Snorri Sturluson.
• Stop by Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and marvel at the steam rising from the ground.

3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• A scenic 1.5-hour drive to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature."
• Explore charming fishing villages, black sand beaches, and the Snæfellsjökull glacier.

4. Þingvellir National Park

• A two-hour drive to the UNESCO World Heritage site and a key part of the Golden Circle.
• Explore the geological rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and learn about Iceland’s historical parliament.

Outdoor Activities

1. Hiking

• Numerous trails around Borgarnes, including shorter walks like the Skallagrímsgarður Park and more challenging hikes like Hafnarfjall.
• Nearby Glymur Waterfall, the second-highest in Iceland, is a stunning hike for those who want a full-day adventure.

2. Horseback Riding

• Ride the iconic Icelandic horse with local tour operators.
• Explore the countryside on guided horseback tours, which are available for all skill levels.

3. Kayaking and Whale Watching

• Kayak tours are available in the Borgarfjörður Bay, offering a unique way to explore the coastline.
• Whale-watching tours are popular in West Iceland, particularly in summer.

4. Geothermal Baths

• Several natural hot springs are within a short drive from Borgarnes.
• Visit Krauma, a geothermal spa with pools filled by water from Deildartunguhver hot spring.

Local Cuisine

• Fish and Seafood: Fresh seafood is a staple, with local fish dishes often featured in restaurants.
• Icelandic Lamb: Icelandic lamb, known for its flavor, is widely served, especially in stews or roasted dishes.
• Rye Bread (Rúgbrauð): A traditional dark bread, sometimes cooked in geothermal hot springs.
• Local Delicacies: Try Icelandic specialties like hákarl (fermented shark), skyr (yogurt-like dairy product), and pylsa (Icelandic hot dogs).

Where to Eat

• The Settlement Center Restaurant: Known for traditional Icelandic dishes and local seafood, with a cozy atmosphere.
• Englendingavík Café: A waterfront restaurant with a variety of seafood, soups, and sandwiches.
• Matstofan: A local favorite offering traditional Icelandic dishes and pastries.
• Blómasetrið Kaffi Kyrrð: A quaint café known for coffee, cakes, and a cozy atmosphere.

Accommodation

• Hotel Borgarnes: A comfortable and centrally located hotel with views of the bay.
• Guesthouse Hvítá: A countryside guesthouse offering a cozy and budget-friendly stay.
• Icelandair Hotel Hamar: A golf resort hotel with geothermal outdoor hot tubs and beautiful mountain views.
• Blómasetrið Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse located above a flower shop with a friendly vibe.

Practical Tips

• Weather: The weather can change rapidly, so always dress in layers, bring waterproof gear, and check the forecast before outdoor activities.
• Currency: Icelandic Krona (ISK). Credit cards are widely accepted.
• Language: Icelandic, but English is commonly spoken.
• Safety: Borgarnes is safe, but always be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas due to unpredictable weather.
• Local Customs: Be mindful of respecting Icelandic nature, stay on marked paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Events and Festivals

• Borgarnes Music Festival (June): A local celebration of Icelandic music with performances from local artists.
• Icelandic National Day (June 17): Join the celebrations in Borgarnes, featuring parades, music, and traditional food.
• Christmas Market (December): A cozy market with local crafts, gifts, and festive treats.

Travel Tips

• Northern Lights: Visit in winter for a chance to see the Northern Lights, but remember that visibility depends on weather conditions.
• Daylight Hours: In summer, expect almost 24-hour daylight, while winter has limited daylight hours—plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Rental Car: A rental car is recommended for flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.