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Around Bessastaðatjörn Hiking trail

A walking route around Bessastaðatjörn in a historically rich setting. Along the way, you can see war relics, learn about the Turkish Abductions, enjoy scenic views, and experience diverse birdlife.

More information

Region
Höfuðborgarsvæðið, Garðabær
Starting point
Kasthúsatjörn
Level of difficulty
Level 1 - Easy route
1 2 3 4
Markings
Sign(s) at the starting point of the trail
Duration
2 - 3 hours
Surface
  • Mixed surface - e.g. soil, stones, grass
  • Grass
Obstacles
Step - A step, ledge, stair or low ledge that must be stepped on
Hazards
  • Car traffic
  • Horse traffic
  • Tides - Periodic rise and fall of the ocean level
Service on the trail
Garbage disposal
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Open all seasons
Dogs prohibited during nesting season from April 15 to July 4
Around Bessastaðatjörn lies a walking route of just over 6 km. The path does not follow the banks of the pond for the entire loop but instead makes a large circuit around the area. The walk begins at Kasthúsatjörn, where a clear gravel path runs along the seashore. Here, on clear days, there are magnificent views over Faxaflói Bay and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. When the path changes into an old road, you can see a stone-built watchtower, a relic from the war years when soldiers stood guard along the shore. On the right-hand side, you can see Bessastaðatjörn, which remained separated from the sea until a land reclamation project in the mid-20th century. The walking route continues to Skansinn on the Bessastaðir Peninsula, where an information signs tell the incredible history of the place, including events connected to the Turkish Abductions in 1627. From Skansinn, the path continues toward the presidential residence at Bessastaðir. The route follows Bessastaðavegur to the roundabout, from where it returns to Kasthúsatjörn.