This calm East Iceland town sits near Lake Lagarfljót, known in folklore for its mythical serpent. A regional center with hiking paths and proximity to fjords.
Egilsstaðir, a town of 2,500 residents in East Iceland, sits along the banks of Lagarfljót lake. You can swim in floating geothermal pools at Vök Baths, hike to the 128-meter Hengifoss waterfall, or walk through Iceland's largest forest, Hallormsstaðaskógur. In winter, wild reindeer descend from the mountains into the valleys around town.
Getting to Egilsstaðir
You can reach Egilsstaðir by taking an hour-long flight from Reykjavík or driving the Ring Road. The drive takes about 8 hours clockwise from Reykjavík, passing waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. Many travelers stop here while exploring the eastern region.
Lakes and Mountains
The 25-kilometer-long Lagarfljót lake stretches alongside the town, with mountains rising from its shores. Local stories from 1345 tell of a serpent-like creature called Lagarfljótsormurinn living in the lake. In Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, you'll find over 80 tree species from 177 locations worldwide - remarkable in Iceland where trees grow on just 2% of the land.
Hiking and Waterfalls
The trail to Fardagafoss takes 30 minutes from the parking area, while reaching Hengifoss - Iceland's second-highest waterfall - requires an hour-long hike. The Waterfall Circle trail leads you past five waterfalls and ends at Laugarfell Highland Hostel, where you can relax in geothermal pools.
Vök Baths Experience
At Vök Baths, five kilometers from town, geothermal pools float on Lake Urriðavatn. The pools sit where hot springs naturally melt holes in the winter ice. You can drink the pure spring water and swim while looking across the lake to the eastern mountains.
Wildlife and Forests
During winter, wild reindeer move down from the mountains into the valleys around Egilsstaðir. In Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, 11 marked trails wind through the trees. Walk these paths to spot local birds or visit Atlavík, a sheltered cove by the lake.
Local Food Scene
Restaurants in Egilsstaðir serve fish caught in nearby fjords and lamb from local farms. Nielsen Restaurant, in the town's oldest building from 1944, prepares Icelandic dishes using local ingredients.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Egilsstaðir experiences warmer summers than many other parts of Iceland, with temperatures rising in recent years. Summer brings good conditions for hiking and outdoor activities. In winter, snow covers the landscape and clear nights often reveal the northern lights.
