Borgarnes

A small coastal town and gateway to West Iceland, known for its historical settlement museum and proximity to Deildartunguhver hot spring and Hraunfossar waterfall. An excellent base for exploring Iceland's natural wonders.

Things to do

• Borgarnes Settlement Museum — Explore Viking-age settlement history and medieval turf houses through interactive exhibits showcasing daily life around 874 AD.
• Deildartunguhver Hot Spring — Visit Europe's most powerful hot spring with water reaching 64°C, located just 20 kilometers east and perfect for a short day trip.
• Hraunfossar Waterfall — Walk along the scenic cascading waterfalls where subterranean springs emerge from lava fields, situated near Deildartunguhver.
• Borg Estate Historic Site — Visit the former chieftain's residence and Iceland's first settler Skallagrímur's historical stronghold, now a working farm with cultural significance.
• Coastal Walks Along Borgarnes — Enjoy easy walking trails around town offering views of Borgarfjörður bay and the surrounding West Iceland landscape.
• Bifröst Volcano and Lava Fields — Explore ancient volcanic terrain and moss-covered lava formations in the nearby Bifröst area, showcasing Iceland's geological drama.

Food to try

• Fresh Arctic Char — Sample locally-caught arctic char prepared simply grilled or smoked, taking advantage of nearby freshwater rivers and coastal access.
• Icelandic Lamb Stew (Kjötsúpa) — Try this traditional comfort dish of slow-cooked lamb with root vegetables, commonly served in local restaurants during cooler months.
• Geothermal Bread (Rúgbrauð) — Taste sweet, dense rye bread traditionally baked using heat from geothermal hot springs, a regional specialty reflecting West Iceland's natural resources.
• Fresh Seafood at Local Restaurants — Enjoy daily catches including cod, haddock, and mussels prepared at family-run dining establishments featuring Icelandic culinary traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Geothermal Areas — Stay on marked paths near hot springs and geysers as the ground can be dangerously thin; locals take thermal safety seriously and expect visitors to follow guidelines.
• Settlement Heritage Pride — Borgarnes residents deeply value their Viking settlement history and the Settlement Museum—expect conversations about Iceland's early settlement period and Scandinavian roots.
• Weather-Ready Visits — Plan activities flexibly as West Iceland weather changes rapidly; locals recommend bringing waterproof gear year-round and checking conditions before day trips.
• Small-Town Etiquette — As a small community of around 2,000 people, Borgarnes values polite interaction; greetings and friendly acknowledgment are appreciated in shops and local establishments.