This tour sets the top of one of the most iconic mountains in the area as its goal. From the vantage point of the average visitor in Borgarfjörður eystri, Svartfell looks like a formidable challenge. However, when the right route is used, it becomes simply a fun, adventurous and only moderately challenging hike with an amazing panoramic view. 

We start from the Breiðavík trailhead and make our way up the slopes toward Fagrihóll, or Beautiful Hill. This section of the tour is on a wide doubletrack trail with a nice stable hiking surface, albeit with a couple of moderately steep sections where the trail surface can be loose. From Fagrihóll we get great views of our surroundings. The Fjord, the majestic Dyrfjöll mountain range, the regal Mt. Staðarfjall, winding rivers and the valley to the south. 

From Fagrihóll, the journey takes us off-trail and onto the rugged slopes of Mt. Svartfell. As we ascend, the landscape changes from rolling slopes into sharp rocky crags and boulders. We traverse the east flank of the mountain and make our way onto the north shoulder. From there is a minorly technical scramble with some exposure up the north face, so be prepared to use both hands and feet. After the scramble you’re rewarded with mind-blowing views of the surrounding area, the mountains of the Víknaslóðir Wilderness, the Dyrfjöll mountain range, the sea and a host of other beautiful features. After taking pictures and admiring the sublime view, we descend back down the same way, ending the tour at the Breiðavík trailhead.