Borgarnes

A gateway town connecting the capital region to Northwest Iceland, Borgarnes sits at the beginning of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and offers insight into Icelandic Viking history through its museum. The town provides convenient access to both coastal attractions and inland geothermal areas.

Things to do

• Settlement Exhibition — Explore Iceland's Viking Age history through artifacts and interactive displays at this museum housed in a turf-roofed building overlooking Borgarnes.
• Borgarnes Circle Walk — A scenic 3-4 km loop trail around the peninsula offering coastal views and access to historical Viking settlement sites.
• Deildartunguhver Hot Spring — Visit one of Iceland's most powerful hot springs, located about 20 km away, where geothermal water flows at 97°C and supplies heat to surrounding areas.
• Hraunfossar Waterfall — Witness a dramatic cascade of water flowing from lava fields into the Hvítá river, situated approximately 35 km east of Borgarnes.
• Snæfellsjökull Glacier Viewing — Drive toward the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to view the iconic glacier-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth.
• Eldborg Volcanic Crater — Hike to the summit of this 64-meter crater formed about 5,000 years ago for panoramic views of lava fields and surrounding landscape.

Food to try

• Fresh Arctic Char — Savor locally caught Arctic char prepared simply with Icelandic butter and herbs, showcasing the pristine waters surrounding the region.
• Icelandic Lamb Stew — Try a traditional slow-cooked lamb stew with root vegetables and herbs, a staple comfort food reflecting Iceland's pastoral heritage.
• Rye Bread from Geothermal Heat — Taste hneaðbökur, Icelandic geothermal rye bread baked overnight using steam from hot springs, reflecting Borgarnes' geothermal proximity.
• Fresh Local Seafood Soup — Sample fish soup made with daily catches from nearby coastal waters, typically prepared with cream and served with crusty bread.
• Icelandic Dairy Products — Enjoy skyr (thick yogurt) and local cheeses from regional farms, staples of Icelandic cuisine available at local markets.

Local customs & good to know

• Viking Heritage Pride — Locals deeply value Iceland's Norse settlement history; respectful engagement with historical sites and museums demonstrates appreciation for this cultural foundation.
• Small-Town Hospitality — Borgarnes follows the Icelandic custom of friendly informality; visitors will find locals helpful and approachable despite the town's modest size.
• Respect for Nature and Geothermal Resources — The community's relationship with geothermal energy is central to daily life; visitors should exercise caution and respect near hot springs and thermal areas.
• Seasonal Awareness — Icelanders plan activities around dramatic seasonal changes; summer offers midnight sun while winter brings dark afternoons, affecting dining times and attraction accessibility.