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Egilsstaðir
Overview
Egilsstaðir (Icelandic pronunciation: [ˈeijɪlsˌstaːðɪr̥]) is a town in east Iceland on the banks of the Lagarfljót river.
It is part of the municipality of Múlaþing and the largest settlement of the eastern region of Iceland with, as of 2024, a population of 2,632 inhabitants. Formerly Egilsstaðir was part of Norður-Múlasýsla.
Facts
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Source
WBP almanac
External sources
Media
From Wikipedia1,226 words
WBP editorial3
Gateway to the East Icelandic Wilderness
Egilsstaðir sits at a crossroads of routes that lead into some of the country’s most rugged terrain. While the town itself feels modest, its proximity to the highlands makes it an ideal staging post for routes such as the F26, which threads through volcanic deserts and glacial rivers. Early morning departures from the town's modest bus depot often avoid the later‑day traffic that clogs the main ring road, giving travellers a smoother approach to secluded valleys and the dramatic Hallormsstaðaskógur forest. Consider renting a 4×4 locally; many operators offer equipment that’s been seasoned on the same gravel tracks, and the drivers are knowledgeable about seasonal river crossings. This practical advantage turns a simple stopover into a launchpad for deep‑east exploration.
Culinary nuance beyond the tourist menu
The culinary scene in Egilsstaðir benefits from its riverside location, offering fresh catches of trout and Arctic char that rarely appear on the usual Icelandic itinerary. Small family‑run cafés often serve these fish simply grilled, accompanied by locally sourced berries like crowberries and jammy bilberries, which thrive in the surrounding heathland. For an authentic taste of the region, ask for the seasonal “skyr” dessert made with milk from nearby farms; the texture is tangier than the standard tourist offering, reflecting the harsher climate that yields richer dairy. Pair the dish with a glass of locally brewed craft beer, which incorporates mineral water from the Lagarfljót catchment, adding an earthy minerality that mirrors the landscape.