Egilsstaðir

A young town with an ancient monster

As the largest town in East Iceland, Egilsstaðir is the perfect place to stop and refresh while exploring Iceland’s famous Ring Road. Here you’ll find shops to restock supplies and pick up souvenirs, as well as cosy cafés, local eateries, and even a geothermal swimming pool where you can unwind.

Set beside the Lagarfljót river, the town is surrounded by forests and mountains, offering plenty of outdoor activities close by. This water is famous for being the mythical home of the Lagarfljót Worm, with sightings reported for centuries,

You can visit nearby attractions like Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, or walk in Hallormsstaðaskógur, the country’s largest woodland.

Despite its small size, Egilsstaðir has a relaxed, welcoming feel. It’s also a great base for exploring the more remote parts of East Iceland, including the fjords and wild highlands.