Est & Fjords (Egilsstaðir)

Where to stay in the East Fjords : complete guide

East Iceland, around Egilsstaðir, unfolds deep fjords bordered by steep mountains and distant glaciers. The turquoise waters of Lagarfljót wind between birch forests and dark lava fields, while northern lights illuminate winter nights. This wild region, less visited than the south, offers raw panoramas where reindeer graze freely and waterfalls fall in silver veils. Pure air and deep silence create a timeless atmosphere, ideal for travellers seeking authenticity and solitude facing preserved Icelandic nature.

Safety score: 9/10midNature loversPhotographers and hikersCouples on honeymoonTravellers seeking solitude

Pros

  • Spectacular wild landscapes
  • Unique visible wildlife
  • Fewer tourists
  • Natural hot springs
  • Preserved Icelandic authenticity

Cons

  • Sometimes difficult roads in winter
  • Limited dining options
  • Infrequent public transport

The 5 best hotels in Est & Fjords (Egilsstaðir)

Greystone summerhouse - Vue d'ensemble
1

Greystone summerhouse

9.3345 reviews
Top pick

Greystone Summerhouse is located in the Est & Fjords region at Egilsstaðir. This private summer house offers exclusive accommodation within a preserved natural setting. Facilities include free Wi-Fi connection and private parking. The property stands out for its intimate atmosphere and high comfort. Its rating of 9.3/10 testifies to service quality.

Connexion Wi-Fi gratuiteParking privéWi-Fi disponible partoutParking gratuit
From ~890EUR / night
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Hotel 1001 Nott - Vue d'ensemble
2

Hotel 1001 Nott

9.21 006 reviews
Excellent

Hotel 1001 Nott is located in the Est & Fjords region at Egilsstaðir. The property offers comfortable rooms with an on-site restaurant. Facilities include free Wi-Fi connection and private parking. Accessibility for disabled guests and pet welcome are notable assets. Its rating of 9.2/10 reflects traveller satisfaction.

Animaux domestiques admisÉquipements pour les personnes handicapéesConnexion Wi-Fi gratuiteRestaurantParking privéParking gratuit
From ~605EUR / night
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Lífsbót - riverside cottage - Vue d'ensemble
3

Lífsbót - riverside cottage

9.220 reviews
Recommended

Lífsbót - riverside cottage is located in the Est & Fjords region at Egilsstaðir. This riverside cottage offers a peaceful stay in contact with nature. Facilities include free Wi-Fi connection and private parking. Pet welcome broadens accommodation possibilities. Its rating of 9.2/10 highlights experience quality.

Animaux domestiques admisConnexion Wi-Fi gratuiteParking privéWi-Fi disponible partoutParking gratuit
From ~360EUR / night
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Skipalaekur Guesthouse - Vue d'ensemble
4

Skipalaekur Guesthouse

9.0875 reviews

Skipalaekur Guesthouse is located in the Est & Fjords region at Egilsstaðir. This guesthouse offers simple, functional accommodation in the heart of the fjords. Facilities include free Wi-Fi connection and private parking. The property benefits from an excellent reputation among travellers. Its rating of 9/10 confirms consistent service.

Connexion Wi-Fi gratuiteParking privéWi-Fi disponible partoutParking gratuit
From ~394EUR / night
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Ormurinn Guesthouse - Vue d'ensemble
5

Ormurinn Guesthouse

8.9602 reviews

Ormurinn Guesthouse is located in the Est & Fjords region at Egilsstaðir. This guesthouse offers affordable accommodation in a calm environment. Facilities include free Wi-Fi connection and private parking. The property particularly suits travellers seeking simplicity. Its rating of 8.9/10 attests to regular satisfaction.

Connexion Wi-Fi gratuiteParking privéWi-Fi disponible partoutParking gratuit
From ~294EUR / night
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Complete guide

Ambiance & landscapes

The East Fjords region around Egilsstaðir seduces with its enclosed fjords of calm waters, steep mountains and vast volcanic plateaus. Dwarf birch forests contrast with black lava fields and turbulent rivers. In winter, northern lights dance above snow-capped peaks while summer brings soft light and endless days. Wild reindeer roam freely in open landscapes, offering scenes of raw, authentic beauty away from tourist crowds.

Highlights

Visit the charming town of Seyðisfjörður with its colourful houses and blue church. Admire Hengifoss waterfall, one of Iceland's highest. Explore Lake Lagarfljót and its monster legend. Hike the Stuðlagil canyon with its impressive basalt columns. Watch reindeer at liberty in surrounding valleys. Discover the natural hot springs of Laugarvalladalur for a relaxing bath in the wild.

Where to eat and drink

In Egilsstaðir, savour grilled Icelandic lamb or skyr with local berries. Restaurants offer fresh salmon caught in the fjords and traditional marinated herring. Taste Icelandic bread baked in warm earth and coffee with kleinur, local doughnuts. Artisan breweries serve beers with Nordic flavours while cosy cafés offer fresh vegetable soups and homemade smoked fish.

Transport & access

Egilsstaðir airport welcomes daily flights from Reykjavik. The Ring Road crosses the region and allows easy access to the fjords. A rental car is essential for exploring secondary roads and isolated sites. Seasonal buses connect villages but remain limited. Allow extra time in winter due to sometimes difficult weather on mountain passes.

Who is it for?

This destination suits photographers seeking virgin landscapes, hikers looking for quiet trails and wild-nature enthusiasts. Couples seeking romance will appreciate northern lights and secluded hot springs. Solo travellers will find the calm and authenticity they seek, away from classic tourist circuits.

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Ouest & Snæfellsnes

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Nord (Akureyri & Mývatn)

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