5-Day Family Adventure in Egilsstadir: A Relaxed East Iceland Guide
Egilsstadir serves as the unofficial capital of East Iceland, offering a perfect hub for families who want to experience the raw beauty of the North Atlantic without the frantic pace of the Ring Road. This itinerary follows our signature Family Travel Guides style, focusing on short travel distances, kid-approved nature walks, and the best spots for a stroller-friendly adventure through the country's most lush landscapes.
While many travelers rush through the East Fjords, staying in Egilsstadir allows your family to settle into a rhythm. You will find that the town's proximity to Iceland's largest forest and mysterious lakes provides endless outdoor entertainment for little ones, all while staying within reach of modern comforts and cozy local eateries.
Day 1: Egilsstadir - Arrival and Lakeside Legends
East Iceland Heritage Museum (Minjasafn Austurlands)
Start your journey by learning about the local culture and wildlife. The museum features a fascinating exhibition on wild reindeers of East Iceland, which is a hit with children. The facility is stroller-accessible and located right in the heart of town.
Lunch at Gistihúsið - Lake Hotel
Enjoy a relaxed family lunch at this historic hotel overlooking Lagarfljót lake. They offer high chairs and a menu that balances sophisticated Icelandic ingredients with kid-friendly options like fresh bread and simple pasta.
Lagarfljót Lake Shoreline Walk
Take a gentle stroll along the banks of the Lagarfljót. Tell the kids the legend of the Lagarfljót Wyrm (Iceland's version of the Loch Ness Monster) as you walk along the paved and gravel paths that are easy to navigate with a stroller.
Dinner at Askur Taproom
Wrap up your first day at this local favorite. While it is a taproom, the atmosphere is very family-friendly early in the evening, serving excellent wood-fired pizzas that are sure to please everyone in the group.
Day 2: Egilsstadir - Forest Adventures in Hallormsstaðaskógur
Hallormsstaðaskógur Arboretum
Drive just 25 minutes south to Iceland's largest national forest. The Arboretum area features well-maintained, flat paths through a variety of exotic tree species, making it the most stroller-accessible forest experience in the country.
Picnic at Atlavík Cove
Head down to the shore of the lake within the forest. Atlavík has a beautiful pebble beach and picnic tables. It is a sheltered spot where children can play safely by the water's edge while you enjoy the mountain views.
The Tree Museum Trail
Explore the shorter, color-coded trails near the hotel in the forest. These paths are designed for easy walking and provide plenty of shade and sensory experiences for toddlers exploring the Icelandic flora.
Dinner at Nielsen Restaurant
Located in the oldest house in Egilsstadir, this restaurant offers a cozy, upscale yet welcoming environment. Their focus on local ingredients like berries and game provides a true taste of the region.
Day 3: Egilsstadir - Geothermal Relaxation
Selskógur Forest Park
Located on the edge of Egilsstadir, this local park features beautiful walking trails and a great playground. It's a favorite for local families and offers a very relaxed morning environment for children to burn off energy.
Vök Baths
Spend the afternoon at these stunning floating geothermal pools on Lake Urriðavatn. They have a dedicated kids' area and the water is kept at a comfortable temperature for all ages. The facility is fully accessible and modern.
Tea and Cake at Tea & Kaffi
Stop by the local bookstore and cafe for a traditional Icelandic 'kaffitími'. It’s a quiet spot where you can browse books while the kids enjoy a hot cocoa and a slice of kleinur.
Casual Dinner at Salt Café & Bistro
A reliable choice for families, Salt offers everything from burgers to fresh fish. The service is fast, and the atmosphere is bustling enough that a little toddler noise won't be an issue.
Day 4: Egilsstadir - Culture and Local Crafts
Sláturhúsið Cultural Center
This former slaughterhouse has been converted into a vibrant community arts center. Check out the rotating art exhibitions or see if there is a family workshop running. It's a great way to see the creative side of the East.
Lunch at Klausturkaffi
Take a short drive to Skriðuklaustur. This historic site offers a famous lunch buffet with traditional Icelandic dishes. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a post-lunch stroll with the stroller.
Snæfellsstofa Visitor Center
Located near Skriðuklaustur, this modern visitor center for the Vatnajökull National Park has interactive displays about local nature and wildlife that are engaging for school-aged children.
Evening at Egilsstaðir Swimming Pool
Do as the locals do and head to the public pool. With water slides and hot tubs, it is an affordable and very fun way for families to spend an evening together.
Day 5: Egilsstadir - Views and Souvenirs
Fardagafoss Hike (Lower Path)
While the full hike to the cave is steep, the lower part of the trail offers beautiful views of the waterfall and is manageable with a sturdy baby carrier or for older children on foot.
Shopping at Hús Handanna
Visit this beautiful craft shop to pick up authentic Icelandic wool sweaters or handmade toys. It’s a great place to find a high-quality souvenir that supports local East Iceland artists.
Félagsgarður Playground
Spend your final afternoon at one of the town's well-equipped public playgrounds. It’s a great way to let the kids play and interact with local children before your departure.
Farewell Dinner at Hótel Hérað
Celebrate your trip with a final dinner at the hotel's bistro. Known for its reindeer steak and local fish, it provides a high-quality culinary end to your family adventure.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit Egilsstadir for a family trip is between June and August. During these months, the 'East Iceland Sun' is often at its brightest, and temperatures hover around 12°C to 15°C (54°F - 59°F). The long daylight hours mean you can take your time at attractions without rushing. Winter is beautiful but can be challenging for strollers due to heavy snow and limited accessibility on nature trails.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Iceland is a virtually cashless society, so you can pay for everything—from a single cup of coffee to museum entry—with a credit or debit card. Tipping is not expected in Iceland, as service charges are included in the price, though it is always appreciated for exceptional service in high-end restaurants.
Getting Around
While Egilsstadir town is walkable and stroller-friendly, you will need a rental car to reach the forest and nearby visitor centers efficiently. There is no public transit system within the town itself, but the roads are excellent and well-signposted. Parking is free throughout Egilsstadir, making it very convenient for families traveling with their own vehicle.
