This is rather a short river but its system reaches relatively far into the mountains compared to other rivers in this part of the country. After the confluence of its two main tributaries, Sunnudalsa and Goddalsa, it gets its name, Bjarnarfjardara, and keeps it for the rest of its course.

Its banks are well vegetated and the many fishing spots are easily accessible. The catch of sea char  usually is very good. Sometimes an odd salmon is caught in or close to river Goddalsa. Four rods are permitted per day. The distance from the capital is about 393 km by the Whale Bay tunnel and 30 km from Holmavik.