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.
9. Experience Local Flavor at Askur Taproom & Pizzeria
Egilsstadir is home to a lot of nice restaurants. 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 established in 2018. In collaboration with Austri Brewery, which shares the same building, Askur Taproom 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.
Open daily from 11:30 AM to 9 PM, Askur Pizzeria is an ideal spot for lunch or dinner, while Askur Taproom welcomes guests Tuesday through Thursday from 5 PM to 11 PM and extends hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 3 AM. Located at Fagradalsbraut 25, it’s a great place to unwind. You can secure your spot by booking a table to make the most of your visit to this popular venue in Egilsstadir.
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.
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.