The best road cycling routes in Garðabær
5.0
(4)
1,133
riders
40
rides
Road cycling in Garðabær offers diverse landscapes, from coastal views along the Álftanes Peninsula to the unique volcanic terrain of the Búrfellsgjá Lava Fissure. The region features a mix of mostly paved routes, green corridors connecting parks, and areas like Heiðmörk Nature Reserve with varied topography. Cyclists can experience serene lake surroundings at Vífilsstaða Lake and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano and Reykjanes Peninsula from elevated points.
Best road cycling routes in Garðabær
- The most popular road cycling route is Borgin loop from Garðabær, an easy 21.4 miles (34.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 26 minutes to complete. This route offers a varied ride through the local landscape.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Fossvogsbakkar Shipwreck – Kópur Sculpture loop from Kopavogur, a moderate 13.6 miles (21.9 km) path. It provides coastal scenery and views of local landmarks.
- Local road cyclists also love the Kópavogstjörn – Nónhæð loop from Elliðavatn, a 19.9 miles (32.1 km) trail leading through varied urban and natural settings, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Road cycling in Garðabær is defined by its lava fields, coastal paths, and green corridors. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Garðabær are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. More than 1500 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Garðabær's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
60
riders
22.3km
00:59
120m
120m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
33
riders
30.2km
01:15
210m
210m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
81
riders
30.0km
01:13
140m
140m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
24
riders
12.6km
00:31
60m
60m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
24
riders
28.5km
01:11
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
16.3km
00:40
60m
60m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
12.0km
00:28
40m
40m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
23.7km
01:07
280m
280m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
riders
22.1km
00:59
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
15.8km
00:42
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
Bessastaðir is a manor in the Icelandic municipality of Garðabær (until 2012 Álftanes), a few kilometers southwest of Reykjavík. It is now used as the official residence of the Icelandic President. The area around Bessastaðir was probably first settled before the year 1000.[1] It was probably the first official settler of Iceland, Ingólfur Arnarson, who laid claim to the land. In the 13th century, Snorri Sturluson owned a farm here. This is documented by the mention in the Íslendinga saga of his nephew Sturla Þórðarson. The medieval manor passed to the King of Norway after Snorri's death in 1241. Bessastaðir subsequently became the seat of the royal representatives (first the Norwegian king, later the Danish king) and remained so until the end of the 18th century. From 1785 to 1789, the Danish canon magistrate Hans Christoph Diederich Victor von Levetzow lived here, and his son Dietrich Wilhelm von Levetzow was born here in 1786. In 1805, the country's only secondary school at the time, called Lærði Skólinn (German: the School of Scholars), was founded in Bessastaðir after its predecessor, Hólavallarskóli, was closed down. It remained on this site for 40 years, but was relocated back to Reykjavík in 1846. This eventually became the secondary school Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík, which is still located in the capital's city center today. In 1867, the property became the property of the writer Grímur Thomsen (1820–1896), who lived here for two decades. Later owners were Skúli Thoroddsen and his wife Theodóra Thoroddsen. In 1940, the farm was acquired by Sigurður Jónasson and later donated to the Icelandic state.
2
0
Excellent cycling path, allows gaining a lot of speed on the downhills.
0
0
The shipwreck is clearly visible from the lookout point. It's not recommended to climb down to avoid damaging the coastline.
3
0
Beautiful bike paths around the capital
4
0
Some information about Hrafn Gunnlaugsson: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hrafn_Gunnlaugsson
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Garðabær?
Garðabær offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 40 distinct tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy loops to more moderate challenges.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Garðabær?
Road cycling in Garðabær features diverse terrain. You'll find mostly paved surfaces, green corridors connecting parks, and unique volcanic landscapes like the Garðahraun lava field. Some routes may also incorporate gravel singletracks for a mixed-terrain experience.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Garðabær?
Yes, Garðabær has many easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Borgin loop from Garðabær is an easy 34.5 km trail that offers a varied ride through the local landscape with minimal elevation gain.
Are there more challenging road cycling routes in Garðabær?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Garðabær offers moderate routes with more significant climbs. The Maríuhellar loop from Hádegishólar is a moderate 23.7 km route with notable elevation changes, providing a more demanding experience.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in Garðabær?
Many of the road cycling routes in Garðabær are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Kópur Sculpture loop from Garðabær, an easy 26.1 km circular route.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Garðabær's routes offer access to several natural and historical landmarks. You can explore the unique Búrfellsgjá Lava Fissure, enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Vífilsstaða Lake, or cycle past the Bessastaðir Presidential Residence and Church on the Álftanes Peninsula.
Are there any historical sites accessible by road bike in Garðabær?
Yes, you can incorporate historical sites into your road cycling adventures. The Álftanes Peninsula, accessible from Garðabær, is home to Bessastaðir, the official residence of the President of Iceland. Additionally, the Hofsstaðir Archaeological Park, showcasing Viking longhouse remains, is within the broader region.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Garðabær?
The road cycling routes in Garðabær are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, coastal views, and the unique experience of cycling through lava fields and green corridors.
Is Garðabær suitable for family-friendly road cycling?
Yes, Garðabær offers several family-friendly road cycling options, particularly on its easier, mostly paved loops with minimal elevation gain. Areas like the paths around Vífilsstaðavatn Lake provide a tranquil and safe environment for families.
What are the options for parking when road cycling in Garðabær?
Garðabær, being part of the greater Reykjavík area, generally offers various parking options. Many routes start from residential areas or near recreational parks where public parking is available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking facilities.
How can I access road cycling routes in Garðabær using public transport?
Garðabær is well-integrated into the Capital Region's public transport network. Buses serve various parts of the municipality, making it possible to reach starting points of many road cycling routes. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient access points.
When is the best time of year to go road cycling in Garðabær?
The best time for road cycling in Garðabær is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience milder weather, longer daylight hours, and generally clear roads, making for more enjoyable rides.
Most popular routes in Garðabær
Most popular attractions in Garðabær
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Road cycling routes throughout Garðabær below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
