Borgarnes is a picturesque coastal town with a proud Viking heritage. It’s set on a peninsula and commands beautiful views across the Borgarfjörður fjord. Stroll around the quaint town centre, visit the fascinating local history museum and explore Snaefellsnes National Park.
Things to do in Borgarnes
The Borgarnes town centre will charm you with its colourful houses and steeple-topped churches. Enjoy lunch at a cosy café and stroll around the lively harbour. The family-friendly outdoor swimming pool on the western side of the peninsula is a great place to enjoy the summer sunshine.
Gear up for outdoor adventures in Snaefellsnes National Park. Borgarnes is a popular base to explore the national park, which is perched on the western end of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Discover dramatic landscapes ranging from shimmering glaciers to rocky lava fields. Explore the park on foot or saddle up for a horseback riding tour. Black-sand beaches and towering cliffs fringed the coastal areas of the park. There’s a good chance to spot orcas, as well as humpback, sperm, minke and pilot whales.
Learn about the Vikings that first landed in Iceland at the Settlement Centre. Housed in a converted warehouse overlooking the harbour, the museum is packed with fascinating exhibits. Don’t miss the section on Viking Age storyteller and poet, Egil Skallagrímsson. He’s one of Iceland’s most famous historical figures and wrote the legendary Egil’s Saga. Enjoy traditional Icelandic dishes like lobster tails and mashed fish at the onsite restaurant.
Getting around Borgarnes
Borgarnes is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in West Iceland, a one-hour drive from Reykjavik. Cars offer the freedom to visit Borgarnes and explore the region at your own pace. Reykjavík Airport is a one-hour drive away.