Borgarnes is a small town steeped in culture and the history of Icelandic Vikings. Located on a peninsula at the shore of Borgarfjordur, and counting just over 2,000 inhabitants, it makes for a charming detour or a home base for exploring West Iceland.
Borgarnes is a historical settlement serving as a cultural hub and an essential commerce center for a large part of West Iceland. The town, while modest in size, has deep roots in Iceland's Viking history and a strong cultural heritage.
Borgarnes is home to several of Iceland’s national forests with some of the tallest birch trees in the country. The surrounding parks and mountains also offer excellent hiking opportunities. Staying in Borgarnes is also a great way to explore West Iceland, and you'll find plenty of hotels and accommodations in Borgarnes to make it a convenient and relaxing home base.
Read on for our best tips for visiting Borgarnes and the surrounding area.
Key Things to Know About Borgarnes, Iceland
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Borgarnes is tied to the epic Egil’s Saga and Iceland’s Viking past, with local museums bringing these stories to life.
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Borgarnes is a great place to rest, recharge, and enjoy the fjord views on your way to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and other destinations in West Iceland.
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Nestled by Borgarfjorfur, the town offers breathtaking views of mountains, coastline, and nearby landmarks like Hafnarfjall Mountain.
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With around 2000 residents, Borgarnes is cozy yet full of character, offering cafés, a scenic waterfront, and a relaxing swimming pool.
History of Borgarnes
Borgarnes features prominently in Iceland's rich tapestry of sagas, including one of the best-known — Egil's Saga. Authored around the 13th century, it combines history and legend to depict the life story of a warrior poet, Egill Skallagrimsson. It is a seminal work that offers deep insights into the societal norms, culture, and values of early Icelandic and Viking societies.
Egill's heroic feats, complex individuality, and tumultuous relationships form the center of the narrative. His farm, Borg a Myrum, gave the town of Borgarnes its name.
Borgarnes has a long history as a fishermen’s village. It has grown substantially in the 20th century along with the boom of Iceland’s infrastructure. It has since become an essential gateway to the northern and western parts of Iceland and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
How to Get to Borgarnes
Borgarnes is located approximately 46.5 miles (75 kilometers) north of Reykjavik and is easily accessible by the famous Ring Road (Route 1). If you plan to rent a car in Iceland and drive from the capital, the journey includes passing through a 3.7-mile (6-kilometer) long tunnel beneath the fjord of Hvalfjordur.
For a more scenic route, turn onto Route 47 to enjoy the sight of the beautiful Hvalfjordur Fjord. This route is ideal if you also want to hike to the second-tallest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, which is nestled in the fjord.
Self-Drive Road Trip Itineraries that Include Borgarnes
Discovering Borgarnes on a self-drive tour is a great way to choose an itinerary that suits your interests and lets you get the most out of your road trip.
Check out these options that include Borgarnes:
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1-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle — Discover Iceland’s best sights on this summer self-drive Ring Road tour, featuring hidden gems like Borgarnes.
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10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland — Take two unforgettable weeks and experience the very best that Iceland has to offer.
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10-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland — Chase the northern lights and hit up Borgarnes along the way on this 10-day tour.
Top Guided Tours to Borgarnes
Another great option to visit Borgarnes without worrying about driving is to join one of the many guided tours. Our top recommendations that stop in Borgarnes include:
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Private 8-Hour Into the Glacier Ice Caving Tour —Step inside the ice cave tunnels of Iceland's second-largest glacier, Langjokull Glacier, before visiting Borgarnes and some of its most spectacular waterfalls.
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Private 10-Hour Silver Circle Tour with Krauma Baths — Explore the Silver Circle in comfort and style, experience geothermal bathing at Krauma Spa, and visit Borgarnes all in one day.
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Private 10-Hour Borgarfjordur Silver Circle Tour in West Iceland — Immerse yourself in West Iceland's natural beauty and history by visiting powerful waterfalls, ancient lava fields, and hot springs.
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Silver Circle and Krauma Baths Tour in West Iceland — Discover the hidden gems of West Iceland on this full-day Silver Circle tour of stunning landscapes, rich history, and geothermal relaxation at Krauma Spa near Borgarnes.
Things to Do in Borgarnes
Borgarnes may be a small town, but it rewards curious travelers with a laid-back atmosphere, fascinating heritage sites, and easy access to some of West Iceland’s most scenic spots.
Here are some of the top activities to enjoy during your visit:
Visit the Settlement Center
Learn about Iceland’s early settlers and heroic sagas through two interactive exhibitions of the Settlement Center, including one dedicated to Egil’s Saga. For an immersive experience, consider booking a guided tour of the Settlement & Egils Saga Exhibition.
Chase Waterfalls and Hot Springs
Borgarnes is rich in natural wonders. Take a scenic drive to the nearby Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls, then head to Deildartunguhver, Europe's highest-flowing hot spring, in the historic settlement of Reykholt.
Relax at Krauma Geothermal Spa
Unwind in warm geothermal baths of Krauma Spa fed by Deildartunguhver’s natural hot waters, with views of the surrounding countryside.
Hike Hafnarfjall Mountain
Explore trails up this striking mountain just outside Borgarnes, offering panoramic views over West Iceland.
Explore National Forests
Wander through the nearby forests of Vatnshorn, Nordtunga, Selskogar, Stalpastadir, and Jafnaskard, where some of Iceland’s tallest birch trees grow among native conifers.
Go Horse-Riding
Experience horseback riding in Borgarnes and discover the region’s peaceful landscapes from a unique perspective. Icelandic horses are known for their friendly nature and smooth gait, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
Day Tours to Borgarnes
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1-Hour Settlement & Egils Saga Exhibition Tour in Borgarnes — Immerse yourself in Iceland's rich history with a visit to the Settlement & Egils Saga exhibition in Borgarnes
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1.5-Hour Horse-Riding Tour of Borgarnes — Experience riding an Icelandic horse through the fantastic scenery of Borgarnes.
Where to Stay in Borgarnes
Image from Hraunsnef Country Hotel.
There are excellent options for accommodations in Borgarnes and the surrounding area, suitable for a range of budgets. Whether you’re looking for a hotel, a cottage, or a cozy rustic guesthouse, the town has much to offer.
Here are some of the most popular choices in Borgarnes:
- The Hraunsnef Country Hotel is an Old Norse-themed hotel with many hidden gems in its immediate vicinity waiting to be discovered. With a farm onsite where you can meet, feed, and admire a range of animals, it is a great way to get a taste of local life in the Icelandic countryside.
- Hotel Hamar is located just a few minutes away from the Borgarnes Center and is an excellent choice for golfers eager to take on the hotel's 18-hole golf course.
- Englendingavik Guesthouse is a beautiful guesthouse on the Borgarnes waterfront, less than a mile (1.2 kilometers) away from the town center.
Top FAQs about Borgarnes
To make your trip preparation a breeze, here are a few more frequently asked questions about Borgarnes.
What makes Borgarnes unique compared to other Icelandic towns?
Borgarnes is a small but historically rich town with strong connections to Viking history, beautiful coastal views, and a peaceful atmosphere. Unlike many tourist-heavy areas, it offers a more relaxed and authentic Icelandic experience.
Is Borgarnes a good place to stop on a road trip?
Borgarnes is a popular stop on Iceland’s Ring Road due to its convenient location between Reykjavik and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It's a great place to fuel up, grab a meal, and explore some historical sites before continuing your journey.
Are there any hot springs or geothermal pools in Borgarnes?
Borgarnes has a local swimming pool with geothermal hot tubs, a steam bath, and water slides. While not a natural hot spring, it’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring.
What are some family-friendly activities in Borgarnes?
Families can enjoy the Settlement Center Museum, the local swimming pool, and nearby hiking trails that are also great for kids. Additionally, Hafnarfjall Mountain and the surrounding areas offer outdoor fun for all ages.
What are the dining options in Borgarnes?
In Borgarnes, you’ll find cozy cafés, family-run restaurants, and farm-to-table spots serving everything from Icelandic lamb and fresh seafood to international favorites.
Is it true that Borgarnes smells like waffles?
Many visitors have reported catching the delightful scent of waffles in the air while walking around Borgarnes. This is thanks to a local bakery and cafés that frequently bake fresh waffles, especially in the mornings. The combination of crisp Icelandic air and the cozy smell of warm waffles makes for a unique and charming experience.
What role does Borgarnes play in Iceland's infrastructure?
Borgarnes serves as a major junction and gateway to the northern and western parts of Iceland, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Its strategic location makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring these regions.
Are there any notable events or festivals in Borgarnes?
While specific events may vary annually, Borgarnes hosts local cultural events and festivals celebrating Icelandic traditions, including the Borgarnes Seaside Festival in July and a festival of lights in winter.
What is the climate like in Borgarnes?
Borgarnes experiences a subarctic climate characterized by cool summers and cold winters. Weather can be unpredictable, so visitors are advised to dress in layers and be prepared for varying conditions.
When is the best time to visit Borgarnes?
The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:
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Summer (June – August): Ideal for road trips, hiking on Hafnarfjall Mountain, and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather is milder, and all attractions are easily accessible.
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Winter (November – March): Great for those who want to experience Iceland’s winter beauty, including northern lights and the snowy views of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Be prepared for shorter daylight hours and possible road closures.
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Spring and Fall (April – May, September – October): These seasons offer fewer tourists, lower prices, and a mix of winter and summer scenery. September is particularly good for seeing the northern lights while still having relatively mild weather.
Your Journey to Borgarnes Awaits
Borgarnes is a captivating destination steeped in the rich history of Icelandic Vikings. This charming small town offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and serene beauty, making it one of the best towns to visit in Iceland and an ideal stop on any road trip.
With its welcoming atmosphere and access to both natural and historical sites, Borgarnes invites you to slow down and experience Iceland beyond the usual tourist trail. Come for a few hours, stay for a few days, and enjoy an authentic Icelandic experience filled with scenic walks, engaging museums, and warm local hospitality.
Begin planning your adventure to West Iceland today and discover the hidden gems of this remarkable region.
