Your guide to Borgarfjörður Eystri, Iceland
Borgarfjörður eystri is the most northern of East Iceland’s fjords. With around 100 inhabitants, the region is pretty remote, but that’s part of its charm. Venture to this untouched paradise for hiking, spotting puffins, and immersing yourself in the local folklore.
Borgarfjörður eystri is an absolute dream if you’re outdoorsy. It’s often called one of the best hiking spots in Iceland, and for good reason. You’ll find about 27 marked routes in the area.
One of the most popular hikes is to Stórurð, AKA ‘The Giant Boulders’. It’s like stepping into a fairytale world of turquoise ponds and massive rocks nestled under the Dyrfjöll mountains.
If you're a puffin lover, you’re in luck! About 10,000 pairs of puffins nest here every summer, making Borgarfjörður a known puffin hotspot.
The region is also said to be home to a large population of elves, often called the ‘hidden people’. According to local folklore, the fjord gets its name from Álfaborg, a rocky hill where the Icelandic elf-queen is believed to live.
