Borgarvirki: A natural fortress in North Iceland
There are certain places in Iceland that spark our imagination. Natural monuments that are so visually unique that they can resemble something entirely different. Some have achieved international fame, while others remain a well-kept secret, known to only a select few travelers. If you’re looking for those off-the-beaten-path locations, you have to go to Borgarvirki, a striking natural wonder in North Iceland. This quiet landmark offers astonishing views, a touch of history and mystery, and a great stop for a campervan journey through this part of the country.
This region may not be as frequently visited as others, but it has plenty to offer, as well as several great places to stop and spend the night in your campervan.
Key Takeaways
- Borgarvirki is a volcanic plug located in the Northwestern Region of Iceland.
- Early Icelanders fortified and used it as a defensive stronghold.
- It’s possible to climb to the top, with amazing views of the surrounding area.
What’s Borgarvirki?
Borgarvirki is a volcanic plug that rises 177 meters (580 feet) above sea level on the Vatnsnes Peninsula. It’s a dramatic basalt formation shaped like a natural castle. A volcanic plug is an object created when magma hardens within a vent on an active volcano. In this case, the petrified magma has created steep walls, some of which reach up to 10 to 15 meters (33 to 49 feet) in height. On top, there’s a flat plateau or shallow depression, creating a structure that seems like a fortress built by human hand.
The early settlers of Iceland saw it and realized what a fantastic defensive structure it would be, so they fortified it even more. They built stone walls and a gateway, and it was likely used as a stronghold during the civil wars that took place in the 13th Century. These conflicts, known as the Age of the Sturlungs, were recorded in the Sturlunga Saga, one of the Icelandic sagas. Today, the remains of old dwellings, walls, and a water well can still be seen on Borgarvirki.
History is not the only draw to this place. It’s also getting an amazing 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, with an open plateau in front of you, mountains in the back, and the ocean nearby. Climbing to the top is quite easy. There’s a short and easy path that leads up from a parking area. It’s a fantastic place to spend some time enjoying a sense of solitude in the middle of Iceland’s raw beauty. And if you like photography, Borgarvirki offers great opportunities.
Where’s Borgarvirki and How to Get There?
Borgarvirki is in the southern part of the Vatnsnes Peninsula in North Iceland. It’s inside the Northwestern Region (Norðurland Vestra in Icelandic), one of the eight regions that make up Iceland. If you’re coming from Reykjavik, it’s a 218-kilometer (135-mile) drive, which usually takes 3 hours to make without stopping. The itinerary is quite easy to follow, though.
Start by heading north on Route 1 (the Ring Road), Iceland’s main highway. About 200 kilometers in (124 miles), turn left onto Route 716. You’ll see a sign on the crossroads pointing to Borgarvirki. Then, take Route 717, which leads to the volcanic plug. It’s a narrow gravel road manageable for most campervans, although a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially in wet conditions.
Parking is simple: There’s a small, free parking area at the base, just steps from the trail. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk uphill. It’s not a hard climb and almost everyone can make it.
Where to Stay in Borgarvirki and Nearby
There are no designated camping areas at Borgarvirki, and it’s not allowed to free camp there. But fear not, there are several well-equipped sites nearby where you can spend the night.
Hvammstangi Camping
Distance: 33 km (20 miles) from Borgarvirki.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, electricity hookups, washing machine, swimming pool, and a playground for kids.
Open: May to September.
This site is located just outside Hvammstangi, one of the main towns in the region. There’s a grassy flat area to park your campervan and you’re really close to the town’s center, with shops, a restaurant, museums, galleries and other services.
Illugastaðir Camping Ground
Distance: 39 km (24 miles) from Borgarvirki.
Facilities: Basic toilets, running hot and cold water, and electricity.
Open: June 20 to April 30.
Tucked along the Vatnsnes coast, this site feels like a secret hideaway. The area is famous for the large colonies of seals that live there, so it’s a great place if you want to see them. The camping is open all year, but the traffic closes between the beginning of May and late June due to eider nesting in the area. It has great views of the ocean, and it’s simple, peaceful, and pure Iceland.
Hunavellir Guesthouse
Distance: 39 km (24 miles) from Borgarvirki.
Facilities: Campervan parking with electricity, plus access to toilets, showers, and a small café.
Open: Year-round.
Just off Route 1, this family-run hotel doubles as a camper-friendly stop. The parking area is small but tidy, with power hookups to keep your van charged. If not, you can always rent a room in the hotel. Inside, the café serves hot soup and coffee. The showers are modern, and the staff’s warmth makes it feel like home.
Glaðheimar Cottages
Distance: 45 km (28 miles) from Borgarvirki.
Facilities: Cottages, toilets, showers, electricity, children’s playground, and swimming pool.
Open: Year-round.
In Blönduós, this site blends cottage charm with a spacious camping area. You can rent one of the cozy cabins, with space for 3, 4, or 8 people. There’s also a guesthouse with double or twin rooms with private bathrooms, towels, and bed linen. It’s also close to the town’s center, which has shops and restaurants.
Sæberg Hostel and Camping
Distance: 43 km (26.7 miles) from Borgarvirki.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, dorms, private rooms, a geothermal hot tub, Wi-Fi, and a kitchen.
Open: April to September.
Perched near the coast, this hostel offers a rare treat: a hot tub fed by natural springs. The camping area is compact but flat, with power and water nearby. You can also stay inside the hostel in a shared or private room. There’s also a laundry, but it is charged separately.
Skagaströnd Camping Ground
Distance: 66 km (41 miles) from Borgarvirki.
Facilities: Toilets, washing machine, electricity, and a small play area.
Open: May to September.
In the fishing village of Skagaströnd, this site offers basic amenities for a campervan stay. The pitches are level, with power hookups and clean facilities, as well as a play area for kids.
The Weather at Borgarvirki
The north of Iceland has a subarctic climate, and it can be quite cold in winter. The location of Borgarvirki, rising in the middle of a plateau, is exposed, and the wind chill is a factor to consider. Here’s what you can expect in each season.
Spring (April and May)
Expect chilly days, averaging 0-7°C (32-45°F), with occasional snow or rain. The landscape starts to wake up after the winter slumber, with patches of green peeking through the snow, but winds can be strong.
Summer (June to August)
The best time for campervan travel, with mild temperatures of 10-15°C (50-59°F) and extended daylight hours. Rain showers pop up, but the days are long and inviting, ideal for exploring the area.
Autumn (September and October)
Cooler at 5-10°C (41-50°F), with shorter days, but the land around Borgarvirki get a beautiful golden color. It’s common to have rain and wind, and the first days of snow can arrive by mid-October.
Winter (November to March)
The temperatures drop and move between -5 and 5°C (23-41°F), with snow covering the basalt walls. Daylight shrinks to a few hours, but if the sky is clear, there are chances to see the Northern Lights. Traveling can be complicated, as many roads close if the weather is too harsh. Always check the road conditions before setting out.
What to Wear at Borgarvirki
As the weather changes so much it's mostly unpredictable; it’s important to dress appropriately to go to Borgarvirki. The best way to do it is by wearing layers. This way, you can adapt easily to the changes.
- Waterproof jacket and pants: Rain can show up all of the sudden, so you’ll want to stay dry.
- Warm fleece or sweater: Even in the warmer months, the temperature can drop without notice.
- Sturdy hiking boots: The paths leading to the summit are rocky and uneven.
- Hat and gloves: Shields against the wind, even in summer.
- Thermal base layers: Extra warmth for colder seasons.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: In the summer, the sun can be surprisingly strong. In winter, the reflection on the snow can burn your skin or damage your eyes.
What to See and Do Near Borgarvirki
One of the best things about visiting Borgarvirki is that it can be conveniently added to a larger itinerary through this part of Iceland. And there’s a lot to see in this region.
Hvítserkur
This is one of the most visited and photographed natural monuments in the Vatnsnes Peninsula. Its’ a 15-meter (49-foot) basalt stack rising from the sea that resembles a dragon drinking from the ocean. The local legends say that is a petrified troll. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a place where many seabirds, like fulmars and gulls, live.
Icelandic Seal Centre
In this museum, located in Hvammstangi, you can learn about seal biology and the region’s fishing heritage. It’s small but engaging, with exhibits on local seal colonies. Afterward, take a walk to the shore—seals often lounge on rocks, especially in summer, or can be seen swimming playfully.
Vatnsnes Peninsula Coastal Drive
A 70-km (43-mile) loop from Borgarvirki along Route 711, passing by cliffs and black-sand beaches. The road is narrow but paved, winding through the coast. There are viewing points to see seals and sea birds.
Kolugljúfur Gorge
About 40 km (25 miles) south of Borgarvirki, this canyon hosts the Kolufossar waterfalls, along the Víðidalsá River. A short walk from the parking area leads to a viewpoint from where there’s a great view of the water plunging over rugged cliffs. It’s less crowded than most southern falls, but it’s still worth a visit.
Gauksmýri Horse Farm
The Icelandic horse is, probably, the nation’s most beloved animal. They’re known for their friendly behavior and unique gait. In this farm, you can book a ride through the surrounding fields, enjoying a fun activity while connecting with Icelandic culture. The farm’s café serves homemade cake, too.
Travel Tips
- Fuel Up: Stations can be sparse in this region. Fill up your tank in towns like Hvammstangi or Blönduós to avoid running low.
- Cash: Carry 100-300 ISK coins for campsite showers; cards aren’t always accepted.
- Drive Safely: Route 711 is paved, but the road leading to Borgarvirki is gravel and can be slippery in wet conditions.
- Food and Water: Pack meals and snacks; Hvammstangi has the nearest shop, 30 km away.
- Connectivity: Cell phone signal can be low or nonexistent in some spots, so bring a printed map or download them on your phone to use them offline.
- Leave No Trace: Take all trash with you; keep Borgarvirki clean for the next traveler.
Conclusion
There are places that seem like a secret unknown to travelers, but that rewards everyone who visits them. Borgarvirki is one of them: it’s a portal to Iceland's wildest side, while also connecting with the country’s history. It’s a great stop to add to an itinerary through North Iceland, with excellent options to park your campervan for the night nearby. Let this place surprise you. You won’t regret it.