Hallormsstaðaskógur
Discover Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland's largest forest, offering a unique arboretum and scenic trails by a beautiful lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walks
Hallormsstaðaskógur
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Hallormsstaðaskógur, Iceland's largest forest, offering a unique arboretum and scenic trails by a beautiful lake.
"Massively underrated. The Icelandic Forest Service is headquartered nearby and their materials say this is the biggest forest in Iceland."
Pack for All Weather
Be prepared for wind and rain, even on clear days. Layers are key!
Explore Marked Trails
Over 40 km of well-marked paths offer diverse hiking experiences.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arboretum Adventure
Hallormsstaðaskógur
Explore Iceland's most extensive tree collection with over 80 species from around the world. A true botanical wonder!
Scenic Hiking Trails
Throughout the forest
Wander over 40 km of marked paths offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Lakeside Camping
Hallormsstaðaskógur Camping Ground
Camp amidst Iceland's largest forest with beautiful lake views and clean facilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Iceland's Largest Forest
Year-Round Natural Beauty
Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience with nature. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for All Weather
Be prepared for wind and rain, even on clear days. Layers are key!
Explore Marked Trails
Over 40 km of well-marked paths offer diverse hiking experiences.
Embrace the Seasons
Each season offers a unique beauty, from autumn colors to winter snow.
Camping Comforts
Clean facilities and electricity outlets available at the campground.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for All Weather
Be prepared for wind and rain, even on clear days. Layers are key!
Explore Marked Trails
Over 40 km of well-marked paths offer diverse hiking experiences.
Embrace the Seasons
Each season offers a unique beauty, from autumn colors to winter snow.
Camping Comforts
Clean facilities and electricity outlets available at the campground.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hallormsstaðaskógur for its stunning natural beauty and its status as Iceland's largest forest, offering a unique woodland experience. The well-maintained trails and clean camping facilities are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some visitors note that the weather can be unpredictable, with wind and rain being common, even during summer months.
"Stumbled upon Hallormsstadhaskogur Camping Ground in May 2016 followed by Lonely Planet's suggestion. It was one of the most beautiful views I ever witnessed! Amenities include clean shower, restroom, and convenient electricity outlets. Camping in May was a little tricky because it got windy and rainy over the night but pretty clear during the day. Still quite a breathtaking experience to have."
jaclyn hsiung
"I think maybe biggest forest in Iceland? Love it."
Hulda Björk Þórisdóttir
"Beautiful campground with great views in Iceland's biggest forest! Clean facilities!"
Raphael Linzatti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hallormsstaðaskógur is located on the way to Hengifoss, approximately a 30-minute drive from Egilsstaðir. You can drive there directly, and it's a popular stop for those exploring East Iceland.
Public transport options to Hallormsstaðaskógur are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the forest and explore the surrounding East Iceland region.
The forest is best explored by car to reach different trailheads and the camping ground. Once there, walking and hiking are the primary ways to experience its beauty.
Yes, Hallormsstaðaskógur is near Lagarfljót lake and is on the route to Hengifoss, one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls.
Yes, Hallormsstaðaskógur is accessible in winter, offering a serene snowy landscape. However, be prepared for winter driving conditions and potential road closures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hallormsstaðaskógur is a national forest and generally free to enter and explore its trails.
No, the arboretum is part of the forest and does not require separate ticket booking. It's an open area for visitors to explore freely.
Hallormsstaðaskógur is open 24/7, as it is a natural outdoor area. However, visitor facilities like the campground may have seasonal hours.
Yes, there is a fee for camping at the Hallormsstaðaskógur Camping Ground. Prices are typically reasonable for the amenities provided.
While official guided tours might be limited, the well-marked trails and information boards provide a good self-guided experience. Local tourism boards may offer seasonal tours.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The forest boasts over 40 km of marked hiking and cycling trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes, including the scenic Rembuleið.
Absolutely! The forest offers gentle trails suitable for families with children, and the arboretum provides an educational and engaging experience.
The Hallormsstaðaskógur Camping Ground offers clean shower and restroom facilities, along with convenient electricity outlets.
Yes, there are designated cycling paths within the forest, making it a great destination for bike enthusiasts.
While not guaranteed, you might spot various bird species and small mammals. The focus is on the diverse flora and the forest environment itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the diverse tree species in the arboretum, the serene lake views, and the dramatic seasonal changes. Any well-marked trail offers picturesque scenes.
Yes, misty mornings, rain-drenched leaves, and snow-covered branches all offer unique photographic opportunities, adding to the moody Icelandic atmosphere.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for landscape and forest photography. However, overcast days can also create soft, diffused light perfect for capturing details.
Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. It's advisable to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the forest to avoid fines.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the forest, and a tripod is useful for low-light conditions or capturing water features.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities within the forest itself are limited to the campground area. The camping ground also provides a great base for families who want to extend their stay and enjoy the natural surroundings. Remember to dress children in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
🏕️ Campers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
With over 40 km of trails, campers have direct access to extensive hiking and biking opportunities right from their tent. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer trek, the forest caters to various fitness levels. Be prepared for potentially windy conditions, especially overnight, and pack accordingly for a comfortable stay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Iceland's Largest Forest
The forest is home to an impressive arboretum, featuring over 80 different tree species from around the globe. This collection serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as a living laboratory for forestry research in Iceland's challenging climate. Visitors can wander through this diverse collection, marveling at the variety of trees that have been successfully cultivated here.
Beyond its botanical significance, Hallormsstaðaskógur is a hub for outdoor activities. With more than 40 kilometers of marked hiking and cycling trails, it provides ample opportunities for exploration. The trails wind through varied terrain, offering glimpses of the adjacent Lagarfljót lake and the surrounding East Icelandic mountains, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Experiencing Hallormsstaðaskógur Through the Seasons
Autumn transforms the forest into a spectacle of color, with golden and red hues painting the leaves. This is a quieter time to visit, offering a more serene atmosphere for enjoying the crisp air and vibrant scenery.
Winter brings a blanket of snow, creating a peaceful, almost magical landscape. While some trails might be less accessible, the quiet beauty of the snow-covered trees and the potential for seeing the Northern Lights make it a unique experience for the adventurous.
Spring sees the forest awakening, with new growth and the return of migratory birds, offering a fresh perspective on its natural cycles.
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