Forests in Iceland? Yes, Really.

Where to Find It (And Why You Should Go)

Located by the Lagarfljót River and just a short drive from Egilsstaðir,

Hallormsstaðaskógur is a tranquil escape filled with winding trails, horse-riding routes, and picnic-perfect clearings. It's also a hub of Icelandic forestry, with over 85 tree species planted in this protected area.

The forest sits on the edge of Lagarfljót Lake, which (according to many locals and a fair share of curious travelers) is home to the Lagarfljótsormur, a mysterious lake monster said to dwell beneath the surface. Whether you believe in cryptids or not, the atmosphere around the lake feels wonderfully storybook-like.

Egilsstaðir – A Forest-Friendly Base

The nearby town of Egilsstaðir is a friendly hub with around 2,700 residents and a growing reputation for cozy cafés, local restaurants, and good hotels. It's an excellent base for anyone exploring East Iceland and offers easy access to the forest, Skriðuklaustur estate, and Vök Baths, a stunning floating spa on Urriðavatn lake.

Egilsstaðir also has a small but efficient airport — ideal for travelers who want to skip the long drive from Reykjavík and head straight into nature.

Things to Do in Hallormsstaðaskógur

1. Nature walks and hiking trails—Dozens of marked paths wind through the forest, some leading to scenic viewpoints and others looping past streams and mossy boulders.
2. Horseback riding – Ride Icelandic horses through the trees or along the riverbank.
3. Picnicking & birdwatching – The forest is home to many species of birds and makes an ideal lunch stop.
4. Boating & sailing – Lagarfljót Lake offers gentle conditions for a relaxing boat trip.
5. Visit Skriðuklaustur. This historic estate, once home to Icelandic author Gunnar Gunnarsson, now houses a museum and is one of the area's best lunch spots.
6. Experience Icelandic heritage – Just around the corner is Húsmæðraskólinn á Hallormsstað, a historic home economics school where traditional cooking and weaving were once taught.

Ringo Starr in the Forest?

Yes — that actually happened. In 1984, Ringo Starr (yes, that Ringo) made a surprise appearance at the Atlavík music festival, which was once held near the shores of Lagarfljót. He even stayed at Hotel Hallormsstaður, which still welcomes guests today and features an excellent restaurant overlooking the woods.

Legend has it, the food was a bit too fancy for his taste — but the views surely made up for it.

The Quiet Side of Iceland

Hallormsstaðaskógur isn't Iceland's most famous destination — and that's precisely why it's worth visiting. It offers a different Icelandic adventure: quiet trails, long sunsets, and stories whispered through the trees. Whether you're looking to stretch your legs, clear your mind, or say you've walked through a real Icelandic forest (with possible lake monsters and Beatles legends included), this is the place to do it.