Egilsstadir, Iceland

Egilsstadir, Iceland

Egilsstaðir on the banks of the Lagarfljót river is the largest town in East Iceland. As of 2018, it is home to fewer than 3,000 people. With its natural wonders as well as excellent connections to other attractions–such as Vatnajokull National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Langjokull Glacier, Myvatn Nature Baths, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula via the Ring Road and a regional airport–Egilsstaðir is often used as a base by travellers to Iceland. There are flights to Egilsstaðir via the Reykjavik Airport or the Keflavik International Airport.

This is a young town, established only in 1947 thanks to the efforts of surrounding rural districts. Its location near the bridge over the river and the intersection of main routes makes it the prime candidate to be the Eastern Region’s centre for service and transportation. On your tour of Egilsstadir, a visit to the East Iceland Heritage Museum will give insight into the town and the region’s development, culture and history through the years.

There is plenty to do and experience in town, from taking a dip in the swimming pool or the nearby hot baths, to horseback riding on Icelandic horses.

On our small group tour, we visit two of the most amazing must-see sights in Egilsstaðir. Lake Lögurinn is the innermost section of the glacial lake Lagarfjlót. The lake is Iceland’s third largest, beautifully scenic but, according to the Sagas, home to a legendary serpent monster.

We also drive through the largest forest of Iceland, 740-hectare Hallormsstadaskogur, and view the picturesque waterfall of Hengifoss. Beyond Egilsstadir you will be able to reach the beautiful wilderness of the East Fjords. This is also the only place in Iceland where you’ll spot reindeer.

Articles about Iceland published by Odyssey Traveller:

• Questions About Iceland
• Visiting Iceland for Mature and Senior Travellers
• Lunar Landscapes and Geology in Iceland
• The History of the Settlement of Iceland
• Golden Circle, Iceland

For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link.

External articles to assist you on your visit to Iceland:

• How to Spend a Day Around Egilsstaðir, East Iceland
• Visit Egilsstadir: Things to Do
• The Ultimate Guide To Iceland’s Ring Road
• Inspired by Iceland: The official tourism website
• Travel + Leisure: How to travel to Iceland
• Ice, Fire and Feuds: On the Trail of Iceland’s Sagas
• Lonely Planet: Ten things to do in Reykjavík