Bæjarfell above Húsafell

The Bæjarfell hike is a short, steep loop on the hill right behind Húsafell, a small forested settlement at the head of Borgarfjörður in West Iceland. It covers 5.5 km in 2–2.5 hours, climbing 350 m to a viewpoint at about 490 m on the shoulder of Bæjarfell (summit 569 m). It is the best quick way to get above the trees and see how Húsafell sits between lava fields, glacier rivers and ice caps.

From the viewpoint, Eiríksjökull and Langjökull fill the view to the east, with the lava field of Hallmundarhraun and the Hvítá valley below. The trail climbs through birch woodland and heath, follows the edge of the Bæjargil gorge in places, and returns on a different line to make a loop. It is a good warm-up for longer hikes in the area or a half-day outing from the Húsafell campsite or hotel.

Highlights

• Views over Eiríksjökull and Langjökull
• Birch woodland, rare for Iceland, on the lower slopes
• Looking down on Húsafell and the Hallmundarhraun lava field
• Close to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls

The route

Getting to the trailhead

Húsafell is about 130 km from Reykjavík, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car via Route 1 and then inland through Reykholt toward Hraunfossar. Roads are paved to Húsafell. There is no regular public transport, so you need a car or a tour. The trail starts in the Húsafell settlement; follow local signposts for the hiking paths.

Where to stay

Húsafell has a hotel, holiday cottages and a large campsite, plus a geothermal swimming pool. More accommodation can be found around Reykholt and in the Borgarfjörður area, about 20–30 minutes away.

Best time to hike

May to October is the best window. June to August has long days and green woods, while September and October bring autumn colours to the birch. In late spring and late autumn, snow can linger on the upper slopes, and the steep sections get slippery.

Safety

The path is steep in places, and the viewpoint is exposed to wind and sudden weather changes. Keep back from the edges of the Bæjargil gorge. In early or late season, snow and ice on the upper part can make the descent hazardous. Check vedur.is and SafeTravel.is, carry layers, and call 112 in an emergency.