east iceland
Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
About Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
Hallormsstaðaskógur is Iceland's largest and most visited forest, located on the eastern shore of Lagarfljót in East Iceland. Stretching across several hundred hectares, the forest contains over 80 tree species including native birch and imported conifers planted over more than a century of reforestation work. Walking trails of varying lengths pass through the woodland, offering peaceful hiking and birdwatching opportunities far from Iceland's usual open lava fields and glacier plains. Picnic areas, camping facilities, and open meadows make it a popular summer destination for Icelandic families and international visitors alike. The forest sits close to the historic farm of Hallormstaður, and the surrounding area includes access to the shores of Lagarfljót lake, associated with local folklore about a mysterious lake creature.
🐉 The Elves of the Eastern Fjords
The steep mountains and narrow fjords of East Iceland are considered one of the most enchanted regions of the country. Local tradition holds that entire communities of elves (álfar) live inside the mountains, with their own towns, churches, and social structures mirroring human society. Fishermen in eastern fjord villages have long reported seeing lights in the mountainsides on dark winter nights — the windows of elf houses, they say. Some families maintain that their ancestors had regular contact with the elf-folk, trading goods and sharing knowledge. The belief is so persistent that construction projects in the region still sometimes account for known elf dwellings.
📖 History of Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
Stretching across several hundred hectares, the forest contains over 80 tree species including native birch and imported conifers planted over more than a century of reforestation work. Walking trails of varying lengths pass through the woodland, offering peaceful hiking and birdwatching opportunities far from Iceland's usual open lava fields and glacier plains. Picnic areas, camping facilities, and open meadows make it a popular summer destination for Icelandic families and international visitors alike. The forest sits close to the historic farm of Hallormstaður, and the surrounding area includes access to the shores of Lagarfljót lake, associated with local folklore about a mysterious lake creature.
✈️ Why Visit
Experience Iceland's largest forest — a green oasis unlike anywhere else in the country.
💡 Did You Know?
Iceland was up to 40% forested before Viking settlement. Today less than 2% is covered by trees.
Key Facts
Iceland's largest forest
Over 80 tree species planted
Located beside Lagarfljót lake
Hiking trails and picnic areas
Reforestation ongoing since the 1900s
💎 Hidden Gems
Off-Peak Visit
Visit Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
🚗 Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.