Borgarfjörður Eystri Travel Guide: A Wild Landscape of Mountains, Puffins and Legends
Tucked away among the colourful mountains of Austurland (East Iceland), Borgarfjörður Eystri is a small village with unforgettable character. Famous for its puffins, spectacular hiking trails, rich folklore and welcoming local community, the fjord is the perfect place to slow down and experience a quieter side of Iceland. Borgarfjörður Eystri is also part of The Fjord Way, a scenic travel route connecting the unique fjords and communities of Austurland. From outdoor adventures and local food to culture, wellness and unique places to stay, here’s everything you need to start planning your visit to Borgarfjörður Eystri.
The ideas in this guide are intended as inspiration for travelling from spring through autumn, roughly from late April to early October. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly, and road access and travel conditions may vary with the weather and season. Opening times and availability for accommodation, restaurants, museums, activities and other services can also vary throughout the year, particularly outside the main summer season. Always check current road conditions before setting out, and check opening times and availability directly with individual businesses and attractions before you visit.
The Puffin Capital
Borgarfjörður Eystri is especially famous for its puffins. During the summer months, visitors have the opportunity to experience these charismatic seabirds at remarkably close range while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery surrounding the village.
But puffins are only part of the experience. Spectacular landscapes, local arts and culture, peaceful surroundings and a welcoming community make Borgarfjörður Eystri a memorable destination whether you come for wildlife, outdoor adventures or simply to slow down and enjoy the fjord.
Photographer: Ester Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Things to See and Do in Borgarfjörður Eystri
There is plenty to discover in Borgarfjörður Eystri, but there is no need to rush. Spend time watching puffins by the harbour, follow hiking trails into the colourful mountains or wander through the village and discover its stories and folklore. Take it slowly, enjoy the local food and let the peaceful surroundings set the pace.
1. Puffin Adventures
Experience the wild landscapes around Borgarfjörður Eystri with Puffin Adventures. Their trips combine wildlife encounters with breathtaking scenery, dramatic cliffs and some of East Iceland's most impressive puffin habitats. It is a great way to experience the area from a different perspective while discovering more of the nature and wildlife that make Borgarfjörður Eystri so special.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
2. Fjord Bikes
For those looking for a little more adventure, Fjord Bikes offers mountain biking experiences through the spectacular landscapes surrounding Borgarfjörður Eystri. Cycling through this remote part of East Iceland gives you a completely different perspective on the fjord, taking you through open landscapes surrounded by mountains and untouched nature. It is an exciting way to combine outdoor adventure with the scenery the area is famous for.
Photo: Fjord Bikes
3. Visit Hafnarhólmi
One of the absolute highlights of Borgarfjörður Eystri is Hafnarhólmi, an exceptionally accessible puffin colony where visitors can observe the birds in their natural environment.
Locals have cared for Hafnarhólmi and its birdlife for decades, creating viewing areas that make it possible to enjoy the colony while respecting the wildlife. For anyone visiting Borgarfjörður Eystri during puffin season, Hafnarhólmi should be high on the list.
Photographer: Ester Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
4. Discover Hafnarhús
While visiting Hafnarhólmi, stop by Hafnarhús for freshly brewed coffee, refreshing drinks or a light meal. The welcoming space also offers art, photography and handcrafted souvenirs, making it a lovely place to slow down after watching the puffins and take home something connected to your visit to Borgarfjörður Eystri.
Photographer: Ester Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
5. Discover the Mountains: Stórurð, Dyrfjöll and Víknaslóðir
The mountains surrounding Borgarfjörður Eystri are among the most spectacular in Iceland, with colourful ridges, unusual rock formations, deep valleys and sweeping views across the fjords and coastline.
One of the area's most famous hiking destinations is Stórurð, a remarkable landscape of enormous boulders, turquoise pools and dramatic mountains beneath Dyrfjöll. The name means "The Giant Boulders", and the landscape feels almost otherworldly. The hike is one of the region's signature outdoor experiences and is particularly rewarding in good weather.
Above Stórurð rise the distinctive peaks of Dyrfjöll, whose dramatic shape is one of the defining landmarks of Borgarfjörður Eystri. The mountains take their name from a distinctive opening between the peaks, creating a striking landscape that can be admired from several hiking routes in the area.
For travellers with more time, Víknaslóðir — the Trails of the Inlets — offers an extensive network of hiking routes through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes of the Eastfjords. The trails connect Borgarfjörður Eystri with abandoned farms, hidden bays, colourful mountains and dramatic coastal scenery, making this one of Iceland's finest areas for multi-day hiking.
Together, Stórurð, Dyrfjöll and Víknaslóðir showcase the extraordinary variety of the landscape around Borgarfjörður Eystri. Whether you're looking for a memorable day hike or a longer adventure, the area offers opportunities to explore far beyond the village.
Photographer: Sigtryggur Ari Jóhannsson
6. Visit KHB Brewery
Discover another side of the local community at KHB Brewery and Distillery. Built around a passion for local craft and production, it offers visitors another way to experience the character and creativity of Borgarfjörður Eystri.
After a day spent exploring the mountains, trails and coastline, raising a glass in the village is a fitting way to celebrate the journey. Skál!
Photographer: Austen Sheer
7. Dive Into Local History
Borgarfjörður Eystri is also rich in stories, traditions and folklore.
Lindarbakki is one of the village's most distinctive sights. This small and picturesque turf house has attracted many visitors with its traditional appearance and connection to the area's history.
Nearby, Álfaborg – the City of Elves is a distinctive landmark in the middle of the village and an important part of local folklore. Stories connected to elves and hidden people have long been associated with the area, adding another layer to the unique character of Borgarfjörður Eystri.
Photographer: Páll Guðmundur Ásgeirsson
8. Visit Búðin Village Store
Need supplies or some local advice? Búðin Village Store serves both residents and visitors, offering everyday essentials as well as useful tourist information. It is a good place to stop for information about local attractions, hiking trails and the surrounding area before heading out to explore more of Borgarfjörður Eystri.
9. Relax with a View
After a day of hiking, cycling or puffin watching, take some time to unwind at Musterið Spa. Relax and recharge while enjoying beautiful views over the fjord. The spa offers a unique bath throughout the year as well as a seasonal seaweed bath, creating an Icelandic wellness experience that fits perfectly after a day outdoors.
Photo: Blábjörg
10. Taste Local Flavors
Exploring Borgarfjörður Eystri is also an opportunity to discover local food.
Frystiklefinn serves homemade dishes using fresh local ingredients, with a menu combining Icelandic favourites and international flavours.
Álfakaffi is a friendly local café particularly known for its fish soup, while Já Sæll Grill & Bar, located in the village community hall, welcomes guests during the summer season.
Together, these stops give visitors sereval ways to enjoy a good meal and experience the relaxed atmosphere of the village after a day of exploring.
Photo: Blábjörg
11. Stay longer
Rather than rushing back out of the fjord, consider making Borgarfjörður Eystri your base for a night or two. Staying longer gives you more time for hiking, puffin watching, local food and exploring the village at a slower pace.
Blábjörg Resort offers several accommodation options, including guesthouse accommodation with shared facilities, hotel rooms with private facilities and luxury apartments.
Surrounded by the sea and mountains, an overnight stay is a great way to experience the peaceful character of Borgarfjörður Eystri beyond a quick day visit.
Photo: Blábjörg
Plan Your Visit to Borgarfjörður Eystri
Ready to explore Borgarfjörður Eystri? Discover more ideas and visit the Borgarfjörður Eystri community website for more detailed information for things to see and do, places to stay, food, hiking and experiences in Borgarfjörður Eystri and its surroundings, and add the fjord to your own Fjord Way itinerary.
Is Borgarfjörður Eystri worth visiting?
Absolutely. Borgarfjörður Eystri combines colourful mountains, excellent hiking, rich folklore and one of Iceland’s best known puffin watching areas. Its location away from the Ring Road also gives the village a peaceful atmosphere that makes the journey there part of the experience.
How do you get to Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Borgarfjörður Eystri is reached by road from Egilsstaðir, travelling north towards the coast before continuing into the fjord. The drive is incredibly scenic, with mountain views, coastline and impressive viewpoints along the way.
How far is Borgarfjörður Eystri from Egilsstaðir?
Borgarfjörður Eystri is around 70 kilometres from Egilsstaðir. It makes an easy day trip, although staying overnight gives you much more time to explore the hiking trails, village and surrounding landscape.
What is Borgarfjörður Eystri famous for?
Borgarfjörður Eystri is particularly famous for its puffins, hiking trails, colourful mountains and stories of elves and hidden people. The area also has a strong local culture and a small but lively community.
Where can you see puffins in Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Hafnarhólmi, by the harbour at Borgarfjörður Eystri, is one of the best known places in Iceland for seeing puffins up close. Viewing platforms and walkways make it possible to observe the birds while helping visitors keep a respectful distance.
When can you see puffins in Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Puffins are seasonal visitors to Borgarfjörður Eystri and are generally present during the spring and summer breeding season. If seeing puffins is one of the main reasons for your visit, check the latest local information before travelling.
What is there to do in Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Spend time watching puffins at Hafnarhólmi, explore the village, discover local folklore, enjoy local food or head into the mountains on foot. Borgarfjörður Eystri has an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from shorter walks to longer routes through the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Is Borgarfjörður Eystri good for hiking?
Yes. Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of East Iceland’s best hiking destinations. The Víknaslóðir trail network takes hikers through colourful mountains, secluded coves and valleys, with routes suitable for everything from day hikes to multi-day adventures.
How long should you spend in Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Borgarfjörður Eystri can be visited as a day trip from Egilsstaðir, but we recommend staying at least one night if your itinerary allows. Two or more days are even better if you want to explore the hiking trails and experience the village at a slower pace.
Can you visit Borgarfjörður Eystri without a 4x4?
You do not normally need a 4x4 to drive to Borgarfjörður Eystri in good summer conditions. As elsewhere in Iceland, weather and road conditions can change quickly, so always check current conditions before setting off.
When is the best time to visit Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Summer is a particularly popular time to visit, especially for puffin watching, hiking and long days outdoors. Outside the main summer season, the fjord becomes quieter and offers a different experience, although weather and road conditions should always be considered.
Where can you stay in Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Borgarfjörður Eystri offers several options for travellers who want to stay overnight, including guesthouses, cottages and camping. Staying locally is a great way to enjoy the village after day visitors have left and gives you more time for hiking and exploring.
What is the story behind the elves of Borgarfjörður Eystri?
Borgarfjörður Eystri has a particularly strong connection to Icelandic folklore and stories of elves and hidden people. Álfaborg, a distinctive rocky hill beside the village, is traditionally believed to be the home of the Queen of the Elves and is one of the best-known folklore sites in the area.
Is Borgarfjörður Eystri part of the Eastfjords?
Yes. Borgarfjörður Eystri is part of Austurland (East Iceland) and The Fjord Way, a travel route connecting the fjords and communities of East Iceland. It is a natural stop for travellers who want to venture beyond the Ring Road and experience the landscapes, villages and slower pace of the Eastfjords.