Egilsstaðir is a small town in East Iceland, located in the Fljótsdalshérað municipality. With a population of just over 2,000 people, Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland and the second largest in the entire country. The town is situated on the banks of the Lagarfljót river, and is surrounded by majestic mountains, glaciers, and stunning landscapes. From its picturesque waterfalls and glaciers to its vibrant cultural life, Egilsstaðir is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Iceland. Here are the top 20 places to see in Egilsstaðir, Iceland.
1. Hallormsstaður National Forest: Located just outside of Egilsstaðir, Hallormsstaður National Forest is the largest forest in Iceland and home to some of the country’s most spectacular nature. The forest is filled with a variety of trees, including birch, willow, and pine, as well as several species of birds and animals. The forest also offers hiking trails, camping sites, and a lake for swimming.
2. Vatnajökull National Park: Vatnajökull National Park is one of the largest national parks in Iceland and home to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. The park is home to several glaciers, including the famous Vatnajökull glacier, as well as numerous waterfalls, rivers, and hot springs. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, arctic foxes, and seals.
3. Lagarfljót: Lagarfljót is one of the most beautiful lakes in Iceland and home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, otters, and several species of birds. The lake is also home to the Lagarfljót Worm, a mythical creature said to inhabit the lake. Visitors can take a boat tour on the lake, as well as enjoy a variety of water sports, including fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
4. Hengifoss Waterfall: Hengifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, with a total height of 128 meters. The waterfall is located in the nearby town of Lónsöræfi, and is surrounded by stunning basalt columns and lush vegetation. The area is also home to several species of birds, such as the Great Northern Diver and the Black-throated Diver.
5. Stórurð: Stórurð is a stunning area of rock formations located in the nearby town of Seyðisfjörður. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, ptarmigans, and arctic foxes. Visitors can explore the area by foot, or take a boat tour to get a closer look at the stunning rock formations.
6. East Iceland Heritage Museum: The East Iceland Heritage Museum is located in Egilsstaðir and is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the cultural history of the region. The museum houses a variety of artifacts, including historical documents, photographs, and traditional clothing. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors.
7. Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant: The Kárahnjúkar Hydropower Plant is located in the nearby town of Húsavík and is one of the largest hydropower plants in the world. The plant is home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, arctic foxes, and seals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plant and learn about the history and technology behind hydropower.
8. Hólmatungur: Hólmatungur is a stunning area of lava fields located in the nearby town of Höfn. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, ptarmigans, and arctic foxes. Visitors can explore the area by foot, or take a boat tour to get a closer look at the stunning lava formations.
9. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland and home to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. The lagoon is filled with chunks of ice from nearby glaciers, as well as a variety of wildlife, including seals, arctic foxes, and seabirds. Visitors can take boat tours of the lagoon or explore the area on foot.
10. Skriðuklaustur: Skriðuklaustur is a cultural center and museum located in the nearby town of Egilsstaðir. The center is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the cultural history of the region, and houses a variety of artifacts, including historical documents, photographs, and traditional clothing. The center also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors.
11. East Iceland Horse Riding: East Iceland Horse Riding is a popular activity in Egilsstaðir and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a guided tour of the area on horseback and explore the stunning landscapes of East Iceland. The rides are suitable for all skill levels, and visitors can choose from a variety of routes, including mountain trails and riverside paths.
12. East Iceland Seals: East Iceland Seals is a popular tourist attraction in Egilsstaðir and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a boat tour of the area and observe the seals in their natural habitat. The tours are suitable for all skill levels, and visitors can choose from a variety of routes, including mountain trails and riverside paths.
13. East Iceland Sheep Farm: East Iceland Sheep Farm is a popular tourist attraction in Egilsstaðir and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a guided tour of the farm and learn about the history and culture of Icelandic sheep farming. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Icelandic farmhouse, where visitors can sample traditional Icelandic dishes.
14. East Iceland Geothermal Pool: East Iceland Geothermal Pool is a popular tourist attraction in Egilsstaðir and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a dip in the natural geothermal pools and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The pool is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, otters, and arctic foxes.
15. East Iceland Waterfall: East Iceland Waterfall is a popular tourist attraction in Egilsstaðir and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a boat tour of the area and observe the stunning waterfalls in their natural habitat. The tours are suitable for all skill levels, and visitors can choose from a variety of routes, including mountain trails and riverside paths.
16. East Iceland Bird Watching: East Iceland Bird Watching is a popular activity in Egilsstaðir and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a guided tour of the area and observe a variety of birds in their natural habitat. The tours are suitable for all skill levels, and visitors can choose from a variety of routes