B
orgarvirki is an interesting stop on the small ‘loop’ connecting it to Hvitserkur and Kolugljufur. If you’re not in too much of a hurry, it’s worth pulling off Route 1 here to see these 3 places.
Borgarvirki is a natural basalt citadel located on the Vatnsnes peninsula in northern Iceland. It stands 177 meters above sea level and reaches a height of 10-15 meters.
A work of nature or man?
Although at first glance it looks man-made, one only needs to get closer to judge that it is nevertheless a work of nature. Borgarvirka offers a wide panorama of much of the region. There is a peephole at the top that helps locate key landmarks and nearby tourist attractions.
Because of its distinctive basalt volcanic columns, the early Vikings actually used Borgarvirki as a fortress. In the center is a depression about 5-6 meters deep and stone walls with openings facing east. Part of the walls and the entrance were reconstructed in 1949-1950. The site also contains the ruins of two human habitats, and a freshwater well.
Surroundings of Borgarvirki
Borgarvirki is close to several other tourist attractions.
The area is best known for the rock formation Hvítserkur – a beautiful coastal rock said to resemble an elephant. The beaches off Hvitserkur are also a great place to watch seals. Many colonies rest on the rocks here and play in the cool waters.
South of Borgarvirki you will find the canyon of the small, but very nice and easily accessible Kolugljufur – Giant Kola Canyon
Slightly farther southwest, on the west side of Road 722, you’ll also find the unusual Kattarauga pond, whose surface holds two natural floating islands.
Borgarvirki – tips and practical information
A staircase leads to the top of the citadel. Although the view from the top is truly beautiful, use extreme caution when climbing the stairs. The rocky debris is conducive to trips and falls.
There is a parking lot next to the “fortress”.
Borgarvirki is located on road 717, in northern Iceland.
To get here you need to take the road 1 north about. 35 km southwest of Blonduos (Blönduós). Take road 716 and then head north on road 717. After about 10 km after leaving road 1 you will be there.
B
orgarvirki is an interesting stop on the small ‘loop’ connecting it to Hvitserkur and Kolugljufur. If you’re not in too much of a hurry, it’s worth pulling off Route 1 here to see these 3 places.
Photos from Borgarvirki
