Borðeyri: Trading Port and Settlement History

Borðeyri combines its former role as an important trading port with historical landmarks in the townscape. On a walk, you can look at old houses and read a history sign. This gives you both an insight into the town’s history and specific points of interest during your stay.

Trade, Exports and Departures

Borðeyri was once an important trading port and was recognized as a licensed trading post in 1845. In the 19th century, it was one of the largest export ports in northern Iceland. In the second half of the century, Borðeyri was a center for large-scale exports of live sheep. The town was also an important trading center for the surrounding communities for a long time. Its historical roles thus range from an export port in northern Iceland to a trading center for nearby communities.

Larger groups of people also departed from Borðeyri to seek a better life in the Western world. These departures add a human perspective to the history of trade.

Protected Settlement History and Old Houses

The oldest part of Borðeyri, on Borðeyrartangi, was designated a protected settlement area under Icelandic law in 2018; the corresponding proposal was confirmed in April 2019. Riis Hús was built in 1862 and renovated to its original appearance. Its year of construction offers a specific point of reference for the history of local buildings.

On a walk through Borðeyri, you can read a history sign and look at old houses. If you are interested in local history, the sign offers a different perspective from looking at the older buildings.

Accommodation and Your Stay

You could consider Tangahús as a place to stay. Check current availability for your travel dates before your trip.

Hot and cold water are available at the Borðeyri campsite; check these facilities before setting out. The site is also known for its varied birdlife. Particularly beautiful sunsets can often be seen from there.

The Westfjords as a Wider Travel Destination

In the wider travel destination of the Westfjords, the approximately 950-kilometer Westfjords Way forms a circular route through Iceland’s Westfjords. You can travel the entire route as a road trip or explore shorter sections. It follows long fjords, crosses mountain passes, and passes through tunnels; some sections are still gravel roads. Landscapes along the route also include beaches, mountains, waterfalls, geothermal pools, and long stretches of coastline.

Another regional nature destination is Hornstrandir, part of a 589-square-kilometer protected area in the northern part of the Westfjords Peninsula. Observing and photographing Arctic foxes is an activity for visitors there, in both winter and summer; animal sightings vary by season and location. The most common way to reach Hornstrandir is by sea; scheduled departures operate from Ísafjörður, Bolungarvík, and Norðurfjörður on the Strandir coast. Schedules are seasonal, so check them before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Keflavik, Garpsdalur, Hólmavík, Thingeyri, Kirkjuból, Hagi, Holt, Tálknafjörður

Back to the wider travel guide: Westfjords.