Region
East Iceland
650 km from Reykjavik
Fljotsdalsherad Iceland: East Iceland's Vast Municipality
Iceland's largest municipality by area—home to Hengifoss waterfall, the country's largest forest, and the legendary Lagarfljot worm.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~3,500
East Iceland • Largest municipality
Fljotsdalsherad is a vast municipality stretching from the eastern coastline deep into Iceland's highland interior. Centered around the Lagarfljot lake and river system, this region combines East Iceland's most impressive natural attractions—from the stunning red-striped cliffs of Hengifoss to the lush Hallormsstadaskogur, Iceland's largest national forest.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Fljotsdalsherad covers a large area. Allow extra travel time between attractions. Highland roads are only open in summer (typically June-September).
Sources to check
Population
~3,500
Iceland's largest municipality by area
Known for
Hengifoss & forests
Lagarfljot worm legend
Top Attractions in Fljotsdalsherad
Hengifoss Waterfall
Iceland's third-tallest waterfall with red clay stripes
Hallormsstadaskogur
Iceland's largest national forest for hiking and camping
Lagarfljot Lake
Glacial lake home to the legendary worm
Litlanesfoss
Stunning basalt column waterfall en route to Hengifoss
Skriduklaustur
Historic monastery ruins and cultural center
Snaefell Mountain
Highest freestanding mountain in Iceland at 1,833m
How to Get to Fljotsdalsherad
From Reykjavik: 7-8 hours via Route 1 (Ring Road), or fly to Egilsstadir airport in approximately 1 hour with domestic airlines.
From Seydisfjordur ferry: The Smyril Line ferry from Europe arrives in nearby Seydisfjordur, just 25 km from Egilsstadir.
Best Time to Visit Fljotsdalsherad
Summer: June-August for full access to highland roads, best hiking conditions, and lush forests. Midnight sun enhances the experience.
Autumn: September-October brings spectacular fall colors in Hallormsstadaskogur, Iceland's best autumn foliage destination.
Planning help
Fljotsdalsherad FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.