Get to know the Town of Borgarnes
Borgarnes is a charming town along the Borgarfjörður fjord in western Iceland, about 70 kilometers from Reykjavík. This quiet, peaceful town seems to be balancing a combo of history, natural beauty, and modern facilities, making it a great stop for those taking a tour up Iceland's west coast.
Facts & Figures
The town of Borgarnes is an hour's drive away from Reykjavik and an entrance to the west. It has about 3700 residents, making it one of the largest settlements in this area. The Borgarfjordur area is known for its beautiful landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and lush green valleys. Borgarnes also holds an important historical background since it forms a big part of the Egils Saga, among the most famous Icelandic Sagas.
History of Borgarnes
Borgarnes brings together the charm of a rich history from the Settlement Era of Iceland. The area was first settled by Skallagrímur Kveldúlfsson, one of the original settlers of Iceland, whose story is accounted for in the Egils Saga. The town itself grew in importance as a trading post at the beginning of the 20th century, serving the surrounding agricultural areas. Today, Borgarnes pays respect to its history with various landmarks such as the Borgarnes Settlement Center, which provides further information about the town and its history, and where Viking settlers first settled in this region.
Things to do in Borgarnes
One of the best attractions is the Borgarnes Settlement Center, exciting exhibitions about the Settlement history of Iceland and the Egils Saga. It is a very good base to explore Iceland's Viking heritage in depth. Afterwards, the visit to Borgarnes swimming pool is very welcome for relaxation, with geothermal heated pools in the stunning surroundings and view of the fjord.
The nearby area of Borgarfjörður is a real treat for nature lovers, with a host of hiking trails and various scenic spots of interest, including Hraunfossar - which has several beautiful waterfalls. Also Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe, is just a 30 minute drive away.
The town also houses a number of art and cultural attractions. Galleries and shops selling handmade crafts are available to visitors.
How to Get to Borgarnes
Getting to Borgarnes from Reykjavík really is as easy as pie: just head northbound on Route 1 for about 70 kilometers until you reach the town. At an average speed, this should take about an hour and can be made even more scenic with a 45 minute detour into the fjord Hvalfjörður on Road 47.
For those using GPS, the coordinates are 64°32'40.9"N 21°54'34.2"W
Services in Borgarnes
For a town its size, Borgarnes has a surprising number of services for travelers. There are several filling stations in town, including N1 and Orkan, to refuel on your way to catch the rest of the region. You will also find several grocery stores, such as Bonus and Nettó, where you can stock up on supplies. For those staying a little longer, a service offered at many guesthouses and hostels is a laundry service, handy for those on extended journeys.
For the relaxation seeker, Borgarnes' swimming pool is a sweetheart among outsiders: outdoors, there are hot tubs, pools, and a sauna heated by natural geothermal energy. There are a number of shops and pharmacies, not to mention a local health clinic that resides in the town area.
Restaurants in Borgarnes
As for dining, Borgarnes has a number of brilliant restaurants and cafes. Highly recommended is the Settlement Center Restaurant, while its menu bases on traditional Icelandic ingredients, adding a modern twist. Other local favorites are Englendingavík in a historic house by the sea, with fresh seafood and local dishes, and Geirabakarí Kaffihús, which is low-key, very popular, and locally owned, where one can enjoy Icelandic pastries with coffee and a view over the fjord.
Where to Stay in Borgarnes
Borgarnes has many different types of accommodation, from homely guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Hotel Borgarnes is fully equipped with all modern amenities and has a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside. Down at Blómasetrið Guesthouse, follow a cozier atmosphere amidst the town's center. There is also a Borgarnes campsite for campers who want to stay closer to nature; the facilities are open from May to September.
How to Spend a Day in Borgarnes
It would be a perfect start to a day in Borgarnes by first visiting the Borgarnes Settlement Centre to take in Icelandic history and then leisurely spend an hour or two at the Borgarnes swimming pool because of its optimal fjord views. For lunch, try either The Settlement Center Restaurant or Englendingavík for some local cuisine. In the afternoon enjoy a walk along the coast or go explore the surrounding Borgarfjörður area, full of glorious waterfalls and hiking trails. End your day on a scenic drive or snug up in one of the town's cozy cafés.
Can You See the Northern Lights in Borgarnes?
Yes! Borgarnes is an excellent spot to view the Northern Lights because of the winter months between September and April. You would probably be surprised how much light even the smallest towns emit, so head outside the town to increase your chances of spotting the aurora borealis. And don't forget to check the aurora forecast about the aurora.
If you are determined to make the Northern Lights a part of your Iceland adventure, your best bet is to join our experienced guides on a Northern Lights Hunt.