Activities in Borgarfjörður

Into the Glacier offers access to the largest ice tunnel in the world located high on Langjökull Glacier. There you will have an opportunity to explore the glacier and see it from the inside.  In 2010, a bold vision became a reality: drilling a tunnel into the glacier to unveil its mesmerizing 'blue ice'. What started as a dream rapidly transformed into the creation of the first and largest glacier ice tunnel. This endeavor has not only allowed us to explore the glacier but also to study and learn from its history, contributing to our understanding of melting glaciers.  Explore Iceland's wonders with Into the Glacier. Journey deep into Langjökull glacier, home to the world's largest ice tunnel. Our guided tours offer a unique experience, revealing the glacier's stunning beauty and rich history.  We offer:  Our Classic Into the Glacier Tour  With pickup from Reykjavík  Into the Glacier and Snowmobile Combo  Into the Glacier & Northern Lights Tour  Private Tours 

Experience nature from its core by bathing in the geothermal baths at Krauma. The hot water originates in Europe’s most powerful hot spring Deildartunguhver, at a temperature of 100°C (212°F). The hot water is cooled through a heat exchanger to achieve the perfect bathing temperature. The geothermal water is very rich in various minerals as well as algae. The main minerals are iron, aluminium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur, which are all very common in Icelandic soil.  Krauma offers five relaxing natural geothermal baths, a cold tub to get your blood circulation going, Krauma has two saunas, an infrared cell and a steam bath. Relaxation room where you can rest by the fireplace while listening to soothing music.    Opening hours: Every day from 11:00-21:00

Led by a knowledgeable local guide in English, this year-round tour begins with a short ride from the Hotel Húsafell to the trailhead in the remote Icelandic Highlands. On this 2-hour tour we enjoy a relaxed walk among natural wonders not found in many guidebooks, including the spectacular two-tiered waterfall Langifoss. We’ll also learn about Iceland’s renewable energy practices, cross an icy stream of glacial meltwater and see the site to Ok jökull, Iceland’s first glacier claimed by climate change. The highlight of our excursion is a serene soak in the recently completed Húsafell Canyon Baths, a surreal hot spring paradise that must be seen to be believed. Enjoy half an hour of relaxing, recharging and breathing in the pure Icelandic air before heading back to Hotel Húsafell.  While the tour is not technically demanding, it does require the participant to walk un-aided over uneven terrain as well as down 64 steps to the canyon floor to reach the baths.  Please contact for tours and booking information.

Reykholt is one of Iceland's most renowned historical sites where some of the finest works of Old Icelandic literature were written. Snorrastofa, a cultural - and medieval centre, founded in memory of Snorri Sturluson,and situated in his ancient homestead at Reykholt. Snorrastofa manages various research projects and provides reception and information for travelers, historical exhibitions, guided tours and lectures. Books on history and culture, Icelandic handicraft and souvenirs are available in the shop. Guest accommodation for scholars and facilities for conferences and gatherings Concerts in the church of Reykholt.  Opening hours Weekdays: Saturdays: Sundays: May 1st - August 31st: 10:00-17:00 10:00-17:00 10:00-17:00 1st September - April 30th: 10:00-17:00 Closed Closed Open on request during winter weekends.

Want to get to know the Icelandic horse? The Visiting HorseFarm at Sturlu-Reykir (route 518) is a good place to do so. It specializes in welcoming those who just want to meet this world-famous breed in a friendly environment. Visiting HorseFarm is run by the couple Hrafnhildur and Jóhannes who have been practicing horsemanship all their lives in Borgarfjörður. They offer horse rides, stablevisit, natural hotspring, homebaked ryebread, coffee and hot chocolate. Open daily from 10:00 to 15:00. Please contact for tours and booking information.

Hailed as the mightiest of Iceland's caves, its diversity and grandeur is unrivalled. This makes for an experience not to be forgotten. Just shy of 1600 meters / 5250ft, the cave features amazing colours and lava formations that lurk in the depths of the earth. We offer a family friendly tour that all generations can enjoy, thanks to our all new signature walkway and feature lighting. For those who desire more physical activity we offer a half day tour to the caves end.  Caves are often dark, tight and uninviting places; how ever this is not the case in Víðgelmir lava cave. What used to be slow traveled rugged terrain is now easy and enjoyable. Leading from one great hall to the next our path is lit slightly flowing through this magical underworld.

Offering a wealth of information, the Settlement Center provides a wonderful insight into Iceland’s history. It also gives you the chance to put your visit into the context of the country’s past. The exhibitions recreate the fascinating drama of the sagas and the birth of this island nation. They also bring to life one of Iceland’s most important cultural treasures, Egils Saga.  

Location

Borgarnes Museum - Community Center, Archives and Library, Borgarnes, Iceland. Summer opening hours (June, July, August):Mondays - Fridays from 10:00 - 17:00Saturdays: 11:00 - 14:00Sundays: closed

The Hreppslaug Swimming Pool, built-in 1928 is run by the non-profit youth organization “Íslendingur”. Hreppslaug is preserved as a cultural heritage. Water from hot springs close by is led directly into the hot tubs and swimming pool. Closed for the winter

In the sports stadium, you will find both an outside and an inside swimming pool, hot tubs, a steam bath which is fed with steam straight from the Deildartunga hot spring, a children’s pool and water slides. All in all, an excellent health spa.   Opening hours:Week days:Saturdays:Sundays:All year round:06:30-22:0009:00-18:0009:00-18:00

A pleasant swimming pool, in close proximity to one of the most powerful hot springs in Europe, Deildartunga Spring. An outside pool, hot tub and a gym.  Opening hours: Summer (1/6 - 19/8): 09:00-18:00 all days   

Escape to indulgence in our two hot tubs and two swimming pools, each carefully set to different temperatures, catering to every preference. Unwind in our sauna with a breathtaking 180-degree view, perfectly positioned to overlook the tranquil pools.  Book your stay now and discover an extraordinary blend of sustainability, relaxation, and luxury. Join us in our commitment to a greener future while enjoying the ultimate in rejuvenation.

1-2 hour riding tours in beautiful surroundings on the banks of the Hvitá River, which is a glacial river flowing from Eiriksjökull Glacier. There are excellent facilities in a brand new riding arena which is specially designed for wheel chair users and the disabled. Horses of all capabilities. The riding school offers a 5-day course for children and teenagers during summer from Mondays to Fridays. Further information: gunna@fjeldstedhestar.iswww.fjeldstedhestar.is

One thing that makes us unique is that we take the time to give each rider a prep lesson in our large indoor arena before heading out on the trail for a scenic ride. This is to ensure that you're comfortable on your horse and prepared for your ride. For those who seek a private experience, we offer private tours that ensure you will be alone with your group and one or two guides.  Contact: louisa@hestaland.net / +354 841 7854

The scenic 9-hole course in Húsafell is a member of the Golf Federation of Iceland. Designed by Hannes Thorsteinsson, the course features fairways that border two crystal-clear streams and a birch forest. You'll play over the Kaldá and Stuttá rivers and take in some stunning panoramas of the beautiful surrounding area including glacier-topped mountains. Try a round of golf under the midnight sun for the ultimate Icelandic golfing experience.  The first tee is below the swimming pool. Green fees are paid in the pool house, activity centre or the hotel.  Further information: golf@hotelhusafell.is     

We offer two types of outdoor experiences, where you get to know different aspects of our beautiful farm.  The ever-popular GOATWALK with the  Hobbit-goats Gandalf, Frodo, Sam and friends. The Goatwalk is a one hour-long easy walk along a riverbank in the company of friendly tamed goats. It is suitable for individuals or  groups who like animals and outdoor activities and want to experience something completely different. The second one is the experience: ALONG THE CAIRN PATH. It is in the spirit of Meet the locals  – with the farmer as a storyteller on the settlement farm Gufuá. A 2 hours walk at a comfortable walking speed, designed for groups. Extremely fun and informative entertainment where the farmer opens the door to his farm and looks at the past, the present and the future.

Soffia´s Toy Museum consists of Óskar Elínar Jóhannesdóttur toy collection and the toy collection formerly found at Iðnó, in addition to toys donated by patriots. The museum is open to everyone who enjoys old toys but we ask guests not to touch the pieces found in the museum. Donations to further the museum are greatly appreciated.

The Agricultural Museum of Iceland presents the agricultural heritage and seeks to explain the history of Icelandic agriculture. The museum has an extensive collection of farm artifacts. For example, the first horse-driven equipment and the first tractors imported to Iceland, as well as the more modern artifacts of current times. The museum has Iceland´s largest collection of farm machinery which goes back to 1880. The visitor center for birdlife in Andakill is part of the museum. The museum offers guidance to the history of Hvanneyri, agricultural education and information on agriculture in Iceland today, beside visit to Hvanneyri church, one of the beautiful old churches in the countryside. Opening hours: Open daily 15th May - 15th September from 11-17 During wintertime (16th of September - 14th of May) opening hours are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 13-17 and upon request.

The Icelandic Goat Centre at Háafell is working towards protecting and maintaining the goat stock in Iceland. Visitors receive a warm welcome from the goats, which are very people-friendly. You'll get to learn about the Icelandic goat breed and story of the farm.  Toilet facilities available. Local Food store. Goat products, bath products, creams, soaps, leather and handcrafts. Open June 1st - August 31st from 11:00 to 18:00 and upon request. For groups contact geitur@geitur.is 

Ullarselið is a store set up by individuals interested in the utilisation of wool and other natural Icelandic material. The new and old ways of handling this material are used, especially techniques of processing wool by hand. The shop selection places emphasis on a variety of hand-made items, e.g. articles which have been combed, spun, knitted, matted, woven, and check-woven. Opening hours from 15th May - 15th September: 11:00-17:00 During winter the Wool Hut is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 13:00 to 17:00.

Hafnarfjall in Hvalfjörd is a popular outdoor spot where walking and running enthusiasts take advantage of it. The mountain offers the possibility of different hiking trails, whether it is hiking up to "Steini", hiking to the top and back or going seven peaks. With the presence of the Borgarfjörður Touring Association, access to parking has been greatly improved and markings have been installed on top of the mountain. An information sign has been put up at the parking lot showing different walking paths, what to watch out for and so on. Hafnarfjall has been best known for the strong winds that road users on the Vesturland road have felt over the years. The hiking trails around the area are well known by Borgarfjörður locals. Many people use the old highway that runs from the parking lot down to road no. 50 that runs on the Hvitá River. The possibilities for a large group of outdoor enthusiasts are great, as you can walk on level ground, hike up the steep slopes of Hafnarfjal, but also enjoy outdoor activities into the canyons and along the rivers found in the area. The view at the "Stein" and the view at the higher point is spectacular, but at seven peaks hiking the view is varied and the person can see widely the fantastic surroundings. Area: Hvalfjörður.  Road number to the starting point: By the highway nr. 1.   Difficulty level: Hard/difficult. Length: 15.31 km/ 9,51 miles.  Elevation: 1010 meters /3313 ft elevation.  Markings: The first part of the route has been marked, from the parking lot up to the first part.  Duration: 4hours and 30 minutes.  Route type: Small and big rocks, grass and mixed substrate.  Obstacles on the way: Steps and wades.  Services in the area: There are trash bins at the parking area.  Illumination: No illumination.  Season: Temporary closures (due to being closed during the winter months).   GPS coordinates to the starting pointupphaf: N64°30.8785 W021°53.4740  GPS coordinates to the ending point: N64°30.8785 W021°53.4740 

Húsafell offers diverse and fascinating hiking trails where dense forests, spectacular ravines, waterfalls, glaciers, fauna and bird life as well as cultural markings making the area so attractive. A map with different hiking trails accessible in the area is available at Hotel Húsafell's building and website.   Húsafell is one of the most popular holday places in Iceland, but recently became defined as a residential area too. There are numerous activities around the area that will suit everyone's preferences whether it is hikings, glacier tours or cave exploring, golf. dip in geothermal water and even wild life /animal life observation (different bird and foxes). The beginning of hiking trail is at Hotel Húsafell and there is a large information sign below the hotel. The routes are: Bæjargil, Oddaleið, Kiðárbotnar, Háifoss, Hraunfossar and Kaldárbotnar.  About each route:  Húsafell-Bæjargil - The hiking trail is a beautiful route where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the history of the area, tranquility and views. The hiking trail is clearly visible, marked in sections and is a busy route for visitors to Húsafell.  The Húsafell-Oddaleið hiking trail is a beautiful route where watery rivers make their mark on the hiking trail. The route is well clear, marked and a busy route by the visitors of Húsafell.  The hiking trail of Húsafell - Kaldárbotnar holds magnificent views of Langjökull glacier and Strútur, while the river Geitá lies close to the route. You walk along the main road, into Kaldadalsvegur, walk into Húsafellsskógur and back. The Húsafell-Kiðárbotnar route runs on the same route as Oddaleið and then enters Húsafells airport and onto the main road.  The Húsafell-Hraunfossar/Háifoss route runs on the old road, from Húsafell church up to Reyðafellsskógur. From there you can cross the highway and onto the roadside, all the way to the parking lot at Hraunfossar. A viewing platform at Háifoss can be found in Reyðafellsskógur. Hotel Húsafell is the central building in the area where many services are provided, accommodation, restaurant, mini-market, bistro and information center. It is also very well known for its high quality standards.  Area: Húsafell, Borgarbyggð Road number to the starting point: Hálsasveitarvegur (nr. 518), Borgarbyggð. Húsafell.  Level of Difficulty (blue route): Oddaleið - Easy path Kaldárbotnar - Easy path Hraunfossar - Easy path Háifoss - Challenging Bæjargil - Challenging (even though the path is clear, it can be moderately difficult walking on it. Requires basic skills and it for individuals in good walking shape. Less than four hours in length.  Kiðárhlaup - Easy path Length:  Oddaleið: 4.3km / 2.67 miles Kaldárbotnar: 10.7km/ 6.64 miles Hraunfossar: 9.3km / 5.77 miles Háifoss: 6km / 3.72 miles Bæjargil: 6.4km / 3.97 miles Kiðárhlaup: 2.5km / 1.55 miles Elevation: Going up Bæjargil is 450 meters /1476,37 feet Marking: Stakes can be found in Oddaleið route and there are markings also on Bæjargil route. No stakes on Kaldárbotnar, Hraunfossar and Háifoss routes.  Duration (approximately): Oddaleið - 2 hours Kaldárbotnar - 3 hours and 30 minutes Hraunfossar - 3 hours and 30 minutes Háifoss - 2 hours and 30 minutes Bæjargil - 2 hours Kiðárhlaup - 1 hour Route type: There are small rocks on most hiking trails, but Oddaleið also has a lava substrate. On the way in Bæjargil, there are large rocks that need to be crossed. Asphalt substrate is on the way to Kiðárhlaup and Hraunfossar. Obstacles on the way: There are steps on most trails except on Kiðárhlaup. Services in the area: Hotel Húsafell provides services to guests Illumination: No illumination Season: The hiking trails are open all year round GPS coordinates starting and finishing point: N64°41.9304 W020°52.2730

While visitors are welcomed by the majestic and 4 million years old Hafnarfjall mountain, at the same time they can admire the imponent Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance. Hvítá river runs along Borgarnes coastline and across Borgarvogur bay, you can have an overlook of the historic, Borg á Mýrum.  Borgarnes is the l argest urban centre in Borgarfjörður, with around 3.800 inhabitants. The town is a well-known resting place for domestic and foreign tourists, but even if you are travelling around the country and passing through Borgarnes, it is worht a visit, as there are many services available, whether it is in the form of accommodation, refreshments or activities and also many resting stops with beautiful views, information signs on the history of Borgarnes and about the ecosystem of Borgarvogur.  Borgarnes is on the beaten track, either if you are driving in the direction to Snæfellsnes or driving south to Reykjavík or north to Akureyri. Numerous hiking trails can be encountered in Borgarnes. From new walking paths, with access for carriages and wheelchairs, to hidden paths that are hidden in many places in between the residential areas of Borgarnes, all with different substrates, design and accessibility.  The hiking trail is connected to the campsite, sports ground and service area but it should be noted that it is needed to walk across highway no. 1 and there is no underpass or brigde. Skallagrímsgarður, Vigdísarlaut, Granastaðir, Vesturnes, Suðurnes, Miðnes, Bjössaróló , Hlíðartúnshús and Hjálmaklettur are some examples of fun areas connected to the hiking trail around Borgarnes.  Area: Borgarnes, Borgarbyggð  Address of the starting point: Brákarbraut 15, Borgarnes Level of difficulty: Easy. Length: 9.89km/6.14 miles. Elevation: 50-100 meters/164-328 ft.  Markings: No markings. Duration: 2 hours. Route type: Mud and small rocks substrates. Obstacles on the way: Several small steps are on some paths.  Services in the area: Services around the area and in the camping site in Granastaðir, Borgarbyggð information center. Illumination: Part of the route is illuminated. Season: The hiking trail is open all year round.  GPS coordinates starting point: N64°53523 W021°923 GPS coordinates finishing point: N64°53523 W021°923