Borgarfjörður Eystri

A remote and peaceful coastal village renowned for its puffin colonies, colorful turf-roofed houses, and dramatic clifftop scenery. The village is accessible via scenic mountain pass and offers excellent hiking, birdwatching, and authentic Icelandic village atmosphere.

Things to do

• Puffin watching at Álftangi — Observe Atlantic puffins in their natural breeding habitat from May to August along the dramatic coastal cliffs just north of the village.
• Hiking to Dyrfjöll mountain — Trek the popular trail up this distinctive twin-peaked mountain for panoramic views of the fjord, coastline, and surrounding wilderness.
• Explore turf-roofed heritage houses — Wander through the village to admire and photograph the distinctive colorful Icelandic turf-roofed cottages that define Borgarfjörður's character.
• Birdwatching at coastal cliffs — Spot arctic terns, razorbills, kittiwakes, and other seabirds nesting on the dramatic basalt cliffs surrounding the village.
• Visit Lindarbakki viewpoint — Walk to this accessible hilltop overlook for sweeping views of the village, harbor, and surrounding mountains.
• Kayaking in Borgarfjörður bay — Paddle through calm waters to explore the fjord's geology, spot marine wildlife, and experience the landscape from a unique vantage point.
• Photography of mountain passes — Drive or hike the scenic route through the Eyjafjarðaralsdalur pass to capture dramatic Icelandic landscapes and seasonal light.

Food to try

• Fresh Arctic char from local rivers — Sample locally-caught Arctic char prepared simply to highlight the clean, delicate flavor characteristic of pristine Icelandic waters.
• Puffin meat dishes — Try traditional Icelandic puffin prepared as a local specialty, often available during summer months in village restaurants.
• Lamb stew with root vegetables — Enjoy hearty traditional Icelandic lamb soup made with locally-sourced lamb and seasonal vegetables reflecting rural farming heritage.
• Fresh seafood at local restaurants — Eat locally-caught fish and shellfish prepared by family-run establishments that source directly from the surrounding waters.
• Rye bread baked in geothermal heat — Taste traditional Icelandic rye bread, sometimes baked using natural geothermal warmth characteristic of Iceland's volcanic landscape.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit during puffin season May-August — Plan your trip between spring and early autumn when puffins are present and weather is most stable for hiking and outdoor exploration.
• Respect private property and nesting birds — Stay on marked trails and maintain distance from nesting areas to protect wildlife and respect local conservation efforts.
• Embrace slow travel pace — Allow extra time for your journey as the mountain pass road is narrow and winding; the village itself rewards leisurely exploration rather than rushed visits.
• Support local small businesses — Patronize family-run guesthouses, restaurants, and shops to sustain the village economy and receive authentic local insights.