Audio Guide of Hallormsstaður Forest

Hallormsstaður Forest is open to the public year-round, 24 hours a day. It is a natural area and has no closing hours. The easiest way to get there is by car, as it is located about 25 km south of Egilsstaðir and is easily reached via Road 931. We recommend using Google Maps for a precise route.

Good news! Access to Hallormsstaður Forest and its trails is completely free. There are no entrance fees or paid parking charges, making it an excellent option for enjoying nature at no cost. You can explore its beautiful landscapes without worrying about your budget.

To fully enjoy Hallormsstaður Forest, we recommend allowing at least 2 to 3 hours. This will give you enough time to walk some of its marked trails at a relaxed pace, enjoy the views, and take in the tranquility of the place. If you enjoy hiking, you can extend your visit to half a day to explore longer routes.

Absolutely. Hallormsstaður Forest is the largest forest in Iceland and has vital historical and cultural importance. It has been a key site for forestry since 1905, and much of Iceland’s reforestation work has taken place here. It also contains the country’s most diverse tree collection, making it a living laboratory of botany.

The best time to visit Hallormsstaður Forest is during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures are milder and the days are longer, offering lush foliage. However, autumn is also spectacular with its colors. Early morning or sunset are ideal times to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography, especially in summer with the midnight sun.

Some parts of Hallormsstaður Forest are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, especially the trails closest to the parking and picnic areas, which are usually flatter and paved. However, other hiking routes may be more challenging due to uneven terrain. We recommend checking local maps when you arrive to identify the most suitable trails. You can also contact the Egilsstaðir Tourist Information Office (+354 471 2320) for more details.

Absolutely! Near Hallormsstaður Forest, you can visit Litlanesfoss waterfall, famous for its basalt columns, or the impressive Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. You can also explore the Borgarfjörður Eystri area, known for its puffin colony and magical landscapes. The town of Egilsstaðir offers services and is the perfect base for exploring eastern Iceland.

To make the most of your visit, we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, clothing suitable for Iceland’s changeable weather (layers are key), and of course a camera. Don’t forget to bring something to drink and a light snack, as there are no shops inside the forest. It is also a good idea to pick up a trail map from the local Tourist Information Office in Egilsstaðir before you go.