Top 9 Things to Do in Egilsstadir

The Top Things to Do in Egilsstadir

If you're wondering about what to do in Egilsstadir, you don't need to worry, as there are plenty of activities to engage in and attractions to explore.

The town is known for its proximity to Lake Lagarfljot, famous for sightings of the legendary "Lagarfljot Wyrm," and Hallormsstadur Forest, Iceland’s largest forest, offering beautiful hiking trails and picnic spots. Egilsstadir is also a gateway to remote highlands and charming villages, making it a perfect base for travelers wanting to explore Iceland’s lesser-known gems.

Known for its warm community, scenic landscapes, and authentic Icelandic culture, Egilsstadir also has a thriving local food scene featuring fresh ingredients from nearby farms. If you're planning to visit this enchanting town, read on to discover what to do in Egilsstadir and the surrounding region.

• Discover The Best Places to Visit in East Iceland
• Check out The Ultimate Guide to Iceland's East Fjords

9. Experience the Local Flavour

Egilsstadir is home to some nice restaurants and cafés. One of the most popular to visit is Askur Taproom & Pizzeria, which brings together great wood-fired pizzas and local craft brews in a cozy, inviting space.

Known for its high-quality pizzas, the menu features locally sourced ingredients, with standout options like langoustine topped with truffle-infused cream cheese, red onions, arugula, and herbs. Options for vegetarian and vegan diets are also available, ensuring a delicious choice for every guest.

Next to the pizzeria, you’ll find Askur Taproom, a relaxed craft bar which offers ten taps featuring a rotation of local craft beers. The taproom’s ambiance is lively yet relaxed, with regular live music, pub quizzes, sports broadcasts, and activities like darts and board games, creating a perfect gathering spot.

Another nice spot to visit for a cozy time with coffee and pastries is Bókakaffi Hlöðum, a nice book café with a great view of the nearby fjords. It's a good place to relax and gather energy for the rest of the day. It's open from 9 AM to 3 PM on weekdays only.

• Check out the Best Restaurants in East Iceland
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8. Discover Hallormsstadaskogur, Iceland's Largest Forest

Hallormsstadaskogur National Forest, just a 20-minute drive from Egilsstadir, is the country's largest and most historic woodland, spanning approximately 740 hectares. Established as Iceland’s first national forest in 1905, Hallormsstadaskogur has grown into a cherished natural reserve.

Originally a native birch forest, a forestry station was founded here in 1903, and over time, foreign tree species were introduced to diversify the landscape. Today, the forest’s arboretum features about 85 different species of trees sourced from around 600 locations worldwide.

One of the forest’s most notable areas is the Guttormslundur grove, Iceland’s oldest larch grove, planted in 1938 and named after Guttormur Pálsson, a ranger who contributed to its establishment. The forest's towering trees defy the Icelandic joke about standing up to find your way if lost in the woods, as many trees in Hallormsstadaskogur are impressively tall by Icelandic standards.

Hallormsstadaskogur offers numerous hiking trails, providing breathtaking views of Icelandic landscapes. A popular path leads to Ljosarfoss, a stunning waterfall also known as Selfoss, nestled within the forest. The hike to Ljosarfoss is easy and takes about an hour round-trip, offering a peaceful walk through Iceland’s largest forest. Visitors can explore this scenic forest with the aid of trail maps available at the information center.

• Learn more about Hallormstaðaskógur Forest in East-Iceland
• Find out more about The Forests of Iceland

7. Uncover the Secrets of Fardagafoss Waterfall

Fardagafoss waterfall, located near Egilsstadir in East Iceland, is a hidden gem that visitors can explore as part of a self-drive tour around the region. Its accessible location makes it an ideal detour for those on the Ring Road or exploring East Iceland. Just a short drive and a brief hike from the parking area, Fardagafoss rewards visitors with stunning views of Iceland’s natural landscape and a beautiful, cascading waterfall.

A hike to Fardagafoss offers more than just the waterfall itself. Along the trails, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs, moss-covered rocks, and the winding Midhusaa river. This middle-sized waterfall drops 66 feet (20 meters) from a cliff into a rocky crevasse, with two additional smaller falls nearby. The landscape is particularly lush in spring and summer, creating an idyllic setting for a short nature walk.

For adventurous visitors, Fardagafoss features a unique cave hidden behind the falls. Like the famous Seljalandsfoss, it allows visitors to walk behind the waterfall for a 360-degree perspective, though it’s smaller and more intimate. Remnants of a collapsed lava cave add intrigue, with chains bolted to the rocks to help visitors access this space safely.

According to Icelandic folklore, the cave was once home to a troll guarding a cauldron of gold. Legends say that the treasure remains hidden, although no one has ever claimed to find it. Stories of an outlaw seeking refuge here and of a tunnel connecting to nearby Gufufoss also add mystery to this unique spot.

Fardagafoss is just a short drive from Egilsstadir on Route 93. The hike from the parking area to the falls is under two miles and typically takes about 25 minutes. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and folklore enthusiasts, Fardagafoss offers an unforgettable glimpse of East Iceland’s rugged beauty.

• Learn more about Waterfalls in Iceland
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6. Visit Two Breathtaking Waterfalls

Just about 20 miles (25 kilometers) from Egilsstadir, you will find an amazing combo of two beautiful waterfalls that can easily be visited on the same trip. Litlanesfoss waterfall (seen above) is known for its dramatic setting, as the water cascades down a series of basalt columns, creating a truly dazzling display. It's a peaceful spot and requires a short but scenic hike to reach.

Basalt columns form during volcanic eruptions when molten rock quickly cools down, creating hexagonal shapes that can be found in various places in Iceland. These special rock formations are worth seeing on their own, but in combination with a waterfall, they create a true natural wonder you will only see in Iceland.

Just a short distance from Litlanesfoss waterfall, you will find another waterfall that's also worth visiting: Hengifoss. It stands 420 feet (128 meters) tall, making it the third-highest waterfall in Iceland. It flows down a cliff of basaltic strata, and you can spot the thin layer of red clay between the basalt layers. The name of the waterfall translates to "Hanging Falls," because of the steep fall down the cliff, as if the water is "hanging" down the precipice.

Hengifoss waterfall drops into the gorge Hengifossárgil, and to reach it requires a gradual climb uphill for about 40-50 minutes. According to Icelandic folklore, elves are said to live in the gorge. On New Year's Eve centuries ago, they were reportedly heard singing a psalm in the gorge by local farmers. While these are just old stories, we can certainly understand belief in the supernatural when visiting a majestic place like this.

• Read more: The Majestic Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss Waterfalls in East Iceland

5. Look for The Lagarfljot Wyrm in Lagarfljot

Don’t miss a visit to Lagarfljot, a scenic lake spanning 20 square miles (53 square km) in East Iceland, also known locally as "Lögurinn." This stunning body of water is fed by the 87-mile-long (140 km) Lagarfljot river and stretches up to 1.5 miles (2.5 km) at its widest point.

Lagarfljot is steeped in Icelandic folklore as the rumored home of the "Lagarfljótsormurinn," or Lagarfljot Wyrm—a serpent-like lake monster said to dwell in its depths. Tales of this mythical creature date back centuries, with one of the earliest recorded sightings in the 14th century describing it rising high enough above the water for a fully-rigged ship to pass beneath. In the 1600s alone, more than fourteen sightings were reported.

A video from 2012 reignited interest in the Lagarfljot Wyrm when a local farmer from Hrafnkelsstadir in Fljotsdalur valley filmed what appears to be the creature’s undulating movement on the lake’s surface. The footage quickly went viral, capturing international attention and amassing over five million views on YouTube.

Try your luck spotting the elusive creature said to lurk in the lake’s depths, and see if you can uncover whether this age-old Icelandic myth holds any truth!

• Read more about Lagarfljótsormurinn Serpent in Lagarfljót - Iceland's Loch Ness
• See also: A Complete History of Iceland

4.  Dive into History at The East Iceland Heritage Museum

Minjasafn Austurlands, or the East Iceland Heritage Museum, preserves the rich history of East Iceland through a diverse collection of artifacts and educational displays, perfect for family visits. With both permanent and rotating exhibits, the museum invites guests to explore and interact with East Iceland's heritage in an engaging way, including hands-on activities and special resources for children.

The museum’s two main exhibitions offer unique insights. The first focuses on East Iceland’s wild reindeer population, the only place in Iceland where these animals roam freely. Here, visitors can learn about reindeer ecology, hunting practices, and how locals use reindeer products.

The second exhibition showcases rural artifacts, offering a glimpse into life in East Iceland before the mid-20th century, with items essential for survival and decorative pieces from the period.

Minjasafn Austurlands also hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of the region’s culture and history, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

Located in central Egilsstadir, near Tjarnargardur city park, the museum is open year-round, with limited hours during the winter, and closed on Sundays. From June to August, it’s open Mondays to Saturdays from 10 AM to 6 PM, while winter hours run from Tuesday to Friday, 11 AM to 4 PM, and by appointment outside these times.

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3. Saddle Up for a Horseback Adventure

Experience the stunning landscapes of East Iceland with a three-hour horseback riding tour around the abandoned Kalif farm, where scenic views and majestic Icelandic horses await. Begin your adventure at Egilsstadir Airport, where your guide will greet you and transport you to a rural stable. Here, you’ll meet your horse and receive a briefing, ensuring safety and comfort for all riders, regardless of experience level.

After mounting your carefully selected Icelandic horse, you’ll set off across the picturesque Kalif farm, passing a historic farmhouse and riding through lush greenery unique to East Iceland. For the adventurous, an exhilarating ride across the Jokulsa river in Fljotsdalur's area on a traditional cableway offers breathtaking elevated views of the landscape, immersing you in the vibrant emerald beauty of this region.

Upon returning to the stable, a delicious buffet awaits, prepared by the center’s skilled chefs—a perfect way to relax, recharge, and enjoy local flavors in the company of fellow travelers. This exceptional tour provides everything you need for a memorable experience: scenic landscapes, the charm of Icelandic horses, and friendly Icelandic hospitality.

Don’t forget warm clothing, sturdy shoes, gloves, and a camera to capture every moment of this unforgettable journey through East Iceland’s captivating landscapes. Seize the chance to embark on this unique horseback riding adventure—an experience sure to be a highlight of your journey through the East.

• Learn more about Icelandic horseback riding: Tölt

2. Discover Icelandic Reindeers on a Safari

Discover the rugged beauty of Iceland’s East Fjords and the wild reindeer that roam freely through its untouched landscapes. This guided reindeer safari offers a dream escape for nature lovers and photographers alike, providing an intimate experience with some of Iceland’s most iconic residents.

You'll be picked up directly from your accommodation in Egilsstadir and transported into the stunning natural scenery of the East Fjords. With snow-dusted mountains, deep ravines, winding rivers, and cascading waterfalls surrounding you, the journey is as breathtaking as the wildlife.

Imported from Norway in the 18th century, reindeer in Iceland were left undomesticated, allowing them to roam the eastern wilderness. Today, these majestic animals are found exclusively in East Iceland, migrating between higher elevations in summer and lush lowlands in winter. Sightings are most likely during seasonal migrations, making this a rare opportunity to witness reindeer in their natural habitat.

Led by a local specialist, this 4-hour tour provides a safe and immersive experience in the East Fjords. You’ll track wild reindeer while learning about their resilience in Iceland’s harsh climate, capturing beautiful photos as you go. Don’t miss this chance to experience East Iceland’s captivating landscapes and wildlife on an unforgettable adventure.

• Read about Wildlife and Animals in Iceland: The Complete Guide

1. Unwind in East Iceland's Geothermal Oasis - Vok Baths

Indulge in a serene soak at Vok Baths, where geothermally heated waters blend seamlessly with the pristine landscape of East Iceland. Located on Lake Urridavatn, just 3 miles (5 km) from Egilsstadir, Vok Baths provides a unique relaxation experience in an area with few natural hot springs, making them an essential stop for travelers in the region.

You can book a ticket to Vok Baths and experience these mineral-rich waters, which are ideal for unwinding amidst untouched Icelandic nature. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also go for a private jeep tour of Studlagil canyon and Vok Baths.

Opened in 2019, Vok Baths was designed by the architect behind Iceland’s renowned Blue Lagoon. The baths draw their name, "Vök," from Icelandic, meaning "holes"—inspired by the lake’s spots where ice melts due to natural hot springs bubbling up from below.

This remarkable geothermal water is so pure that it's the only drinkable hot spring water in Iceland. Visitors can sip it directly while soaking in warm pools with stunning lake views and surrounding scenery, or go hop into the cold lake the warm pools are floating on for a quick swim.

Vok Baths also features a cozy café and restaurant offering locally sourced, organic refreshments, enhancing the wellness experience with delicious food and drinks. Free from the strong sulfuric odor typical of geothermal sites, Vok Baths offers a luxurious, refreshing escape into Iceland’s geothermal wonders.

• Check out The 30 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland
• See also: 6 Facts You Didn't Know About Icelandic Water

Top 3 Places to Stay in Egilsstadir

Spending a night or two in Egilsstadir is an excellent way to explore the East region. Just a short drive from must-visit spots like Hallormsstadaskogur National Forest and Fardagafoss waterfall, Egilsstadir offers a perfect base for adventure. Known for its warm hospitality and variety of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to more luxurious hotels, it’s a comfortable option for all travelers.

Whether you're planning to take a scenic hike, unwind at Vok Baths, or enjoy a meal at Askur Taproom & Pizzeria, Egilsstadir has everything you need for a memorable Icelandic experience.

Gistihusid Lake Hotel

Gistihusid Lake Hotel is a 50-room luxury hotel in Egilsstadir. This stylish hotel, equipped with modern amenities and an inviting on-site spa, is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and relaxation.

Situated by Lake Lagarfljot, the hotel provides a perfect base for exploring the region's enchanting nature. Guests can enjoy proximity to Hallormsstadur forest, Iceland’s largest forest, and the geothermal Vok Baths, located just a short drive away. The hotel is also conveniently near shops, restaurants, pharmacies, and bars, ensuring guests have everything they need within reach.

For those venturing to East Iceland to explore its famous fjords, Gistihusid Lake Hotel is an excellent choice. The picturesque fjords of Seydisfjordur and Borgarfjordur Eystri are within easy reach, as well as other unique attractions like Mount Snaefell, Iceland’s tallest free-standing mountain.

The hotel’s decor is stylish, with well-furnished rooms available in single, twin, double, and triple varieties, plus superior rooms with enhanced views. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, en suite bathrooms, and in-room tea and coffee. Guests can unwind at the on-site spa and dine at Eldhusid Restaurant, known for its locally inspired dishes.

Hotel Hallormsstadur

Book a stay at Hotel Hallormsstadur, a luxurious lakeside retreat nestled within Hallormsstadaskogur. Perfect for travelers seeking to experience East Iceland’s incredible scenery with the ease of innovative amenities, this hotel offers the ideal blend of nature and relaxation.

Hotel Hallormsstadur is surrounded by stunning hiking and biking trails through the forest and sits beside the legendary lake Lagarfljot, known for its tranquil waters and mysterious folklore. Although it feels like a remote escape, the vibrant town of Egilsstadir, the region’s hub, is just a 30-minute drive away. From the hotel, guests can easily explore the Eastfjords.

The hotel’s décor reflects its natural surroundings, with contemporary amenities in every room, including free Wi-Fi and en suite bathrooms. Room options include standard and superior rooms, each offering views of the lake, mountains, or gardens. Guests can also enjoy the on-site sauna, hot tub, and a restaurant bar with expansive forest views. Hotel Hallormsstadur is an exceptional choice for those looking to fully experience East Iceland’s scenic splendor.

Hotel Valaskjalf

Hotel Valaskjalf in Egilsstadir is an excellent choice for travelers exploring the region. Centrally located in the town, this nice hotel offers comfort and convenience for those venturing along the Ring Road or diving into the rugged Eastfjords.

The hotel is perfectly situated to meet your basic needs, with grocery stores, boutiques, and gas stations all nearby. Scenic spots are also close at hand. Nature lovers will appreciate the short drive to Hallormsstadaskogur, Iceland’s largest forest, with trails perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

For those who want to explore further, guided tours pick up directly from the hotel. If you’re driving, experience the freedom and calmness of driving through the stunning surrounding fjords.

With cozy, well-equipped rooms and delicious dining options, including the Italian-inspired dinner at Glod, it is a comfortable base for an East Iceland adventure.

Summary of Things to Do in Egilsstadir

We hope we have answered all your questions regarding what to do in Egilsstadir. This charming town in East Iceland provides the perfect base for exploring scenic landscapes, engaging in outdoor adventures, and soaking up local culture through unique tours or exploring by yourself.

Visitors can embark on guided excursions, admire stunning vistas, and create unforgettable memories that showcase the unique Iceland. Highlights include the legendary Lake Lagarfljot, where folklore whispers of a lake monster, and nearby Hallormsstadur Forest, offering endless trails for hiking and birdwatching.

We hope you’re inspired to explore all that Egilsstadir has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to its enchanting legends, breathtaking natural sites, or the chance to connect with Icelandic culture, there’s something here for everyone. Which adventure are you most excited to try?