Egilsstaðir Travel Guide

Egilsstaðir Travel Guide, Iceland

Egilsstaðir is a charming town in East Iceland known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and as a gateway to the Eastern Fjords. This guide provides an overview of what to see, do, and know when visiting Egilsstaðir.

Overview

Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland, located near the Lagarfljót River and surrounded by vast forests, waterfalls, and highlands. The town is known for its cozy atmosphere, proximity to Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaður, and a variety of outdoor activities. It’s a perfect stop for travelers exploring the Ring Road.

Getting There

• By Car: The Ring Road (Route 1) connects Egilsstaðir to Reykjavík, approximately 650 km away, which is about an 8-hour drive. It's a scenic route with diverse landscapes.
• By Plane: Egilsstaðir has a small domestic airport with regular flights from Reykjavík, making it accessible in about an hour by air.
• By Bus: There are bus services from Reykjavík and other major towns in Iceland to Egilsstaðir.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June - August): Offers the best weather, midnight sun, and green landscapes. Great for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Winter (November - February): Ideal for seeing the Northern Lights, although weather can be cold and snowy.
• Shoulder Seasons (May & September): Quieter with fewer tourists, decent weather, and a chance to experience autumn colors or spring blooms.

Top Attractions

1. Lagarfljót Lake:

   • A large, serene lake near Egilsstaðir, famous for the legend of the Lagarfljót Worm, a mythical creature said to inhabit its waters.
   • Popular for boating, fishing, and bird-watching. There are also scenic hiking trails around the lake.

2. Hengifoss Waterfall:

   • One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls at 128 meters, about 30 km southwest of Egilsstaðir. The waterfall is known for the red clay and basaltic rock formations.
   • A hike to Hengifoss (about 2.5 hours round trip) offers stunning views, and you can also see the smaller but beautiful Litlanesfoss waterfall along the way.

3. Hallormsstaður Forest:

   • Iceland’s largest forest, featuring a variety of walking and hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping areas.
   • It’s a great location for birdwatching, and the forest showcases Iceland’s reforestation efforts.

4. East Iceland Heritage Museum:

   • A small but informative museum in Egilsstaðir showcasing the history and culture of East Iceland, including farming and fishing traditions.
   • There’s also a section dedicated to the traditional way of life in Iceland, including exhibits on the local reindeer population.

5. Seyðisfjörður:

   • A picturesque town about 27 km east of Egilsstaðir, known for its vibrant art scene, colorful houses, and unique vibe. Accessible via a scenic mountain road.
   • The town has several art galleries, cafés, and the iconic Blue Church.

Outdoor Activities

• Hiking: The surrounding area offers numerous trails, including easy walks around Hallormsstaður Forest to more challenging hikes near Hengifoss.
• Fishing: Lagarfljót Lake is known for trout fishing, and nearby rivers are excellent for salmon fishing.
• Horseback Riding: Experience the Icelandic horse with local tours offering rides through scenic landscapes.
• Reindeer Spotting: East Iceland is the only region in the country with wild reindeer. Winter and early spring are the best times to spot them.
• Northern Lights: During winter months, Egilsstaðir's relatively clear skies make it a good spot to witness the Aurora Borealis.

Accommodation

Egilsstaðir offers a range of accommodation options:

• Hotels:
  • Hotel Valaskjálf: Comfortable, centrally located with views of the river.
  • Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir: A historic hotel by the lake with a spa, great restaurant, and cozy atmosphere.
• Guesthouses & B&Bs:
  • Guesthouse Egilsstaðir: A charming guesthouse with traditional Icelandic décor.
  • Lyngás Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option with basic amenities.
• Cabins & Cottages: Ideal for families or those seeking a more private and scenic experience. Check local listings for rental options.
• Camping: The Egilsstaðir campsite is centrally located, offering a budget-friendly option for the summer months.

Dining & Local Cuisine

• Salt Café & Bistro: Known for its casual atmosphere and a menu that includes Icelandic and international dishes.
• Askur Pizzeria: A favorite spot for pizza lovers, offering a cozy atmosphere.
• Kaffi Egilsstaðir: A local café known for its great coffee, cakes, and a variety of sandwiches.
• Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir Restaurant: Offers Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients.

Shopping & Souvenirs

• Handcraft and Local Art: Check out local stores for hand-knitted Icelandic wool sweaters, ceramics, and handmade jewelry.
• Vinland Market: A popular local grocery store with a small selection of local products and foods.

Day Trips & Excursions

1. Seyðisfjörður: A day trip to this charming fjord town is a must. Explore the vibrant arts scene and enjoy some of the best views in the region.
2. Borgarfjörður Eystri: Known for its rugged landscapes, great hiking trails, and puffin colonies.
3. Stórurð: A unique hiking area west of Borgarfjörður Eystri with surreal landscapes, turquoise ponds, and giant boulders.
4. Vök Baths: Geothermal floating pools on Lake Urriðavatn, just 5 km from Egilsstaðir. Perfect for relaxing in warm waters surrounded by nature.

Practical Tips

• Weather: East Iceland can be unpredictable. Dress in layers, bring waterproof clothing, and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
• Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
• Language: Icelandic is the official language, but English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas.
• Safety: Egilsstaðir is a very safe destination, but always take precautions when hiking in remote areas and follow local guidelines.

Events & Festivals

• Eistnaflug (July): A heavy metal music festival held in Neskaupstaður, a few hours from Egilsstaðir, attracting fans from around Iceland.
• LungA Festival (July): An art festival in Seyðisfjörður with workshops, concerts, and exhibitions focusing on creative expression.

Travel Tips

• Renting a Car: Highly recommended for exploring the region. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are useful for some highland roads.
• Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations and public spaces.
• Fuel: Gas stations are available in Egilsstaðir, but plan ahead when exploring rural areas.

Egilsstaðir is a perfect base for those looking to explore East Iceland’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage, making it a destination not to be missed on your Icelandic journey.