Where is Eyjólfsstaðaskógur?

Eyjólfsstaðaskógur is located in East Iceland near the Fljótsdalshérað district, accessible by car from Egilsstaðir.

What birds can I see at Eyjólfsstaðaskógur?

The forest is home to various bird species including redwings, redpolls, wrens, and golden plovers. Spring and early summer are best for birdwatching, when many species are nesting.

How difficult are the walking trails?

The trails are generally easy, winding through birch woodland on relatively flat terrain. They are suitable for all fitness levels and ages.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring through early autumn (May–September) has the best birdwatching and greenest foliage. The forest can be visited in other seasons but access may be limited by weather.

Are there facilities at the forest?

Eyjólfsstaðaskógur is a natural area with minimal infrastructure. Bring your own water and supplies, and be prepared for variable weather.

Eyjólfsstaðaskógur: Birch Woodland in East Iceland

A birch woodland in East Iceland near Fljótsdalshérað, with quiet walking trails and good birdwatching.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

East Iceland

Near Fljótsdalshérað. Great for birdwatchers.

Eyjólfsstaðaskógur is a birch woodland in the Fljótsdalshérað district of East Iceland. Many bird species live in the forest, and birdwatchers do well here. Walking trails wind through the birch trees in one of Iceland's less-visited eastern regions.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and check weather before heading out.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Best for

Birdwatching + nature walks

One of East Iceland's best spots for forest birds.

Access

Moderate

Accessible by car from Egilsstaðir; some gravel roads.

Pro tip

Bring binoculars

Spring nesting season (May–June) offers the best birdwatching.

What to Expect

Birch woodland with diverse bird species
Easy walking trails through flat terrain
Quiet natural setting away from tourist routes
Best birdwatching in the spring nesting season (May–June)
Wildflowers and berry bushes along the forest floor in summer
Wetland edges with redwing, golden plover, and occasional snipe

Nearby Attractions

Egilsstaðir and Lagarfljót lake
Bæjarstaðaskógur historic birch forest
Seyðisfjörður (scenic fjord town)
Hallormsstaðaskógur national forest with campsite
Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss waterfalls nearby

How to Get There

Located near Fljótsdalshérað in East Iceland, accessible from Egilsstaðir area
Egilsstaðir is about 650 km from Reykjavik via Route 1 (7 hours), or 45 minutes by air
Local roads to the forest may be gravel; a standard car is sufficient in summer
Ask at the Egilsstaðir visitor center for specific directions and current conditions
Combine with birding excursions to Lagarfljót lake and surrounding wetlands

Best Time to Visit

June-August: Peak birdwatching season, birch woodland in full leaf, 8-15°C
May-June: Spring migration brings the most bird species to the woodland
September: Autumn colors and late-season birding opportunities
Year-round: Forest accessible but birdwatching best in warmer months
July: Longest daylight for birdwatching

Planning help

Eyjólfsstaðaskógur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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