Hotels in East Iceland

If you're looking for a tranquil escape surrounded by natural beauty, East Iceland hotels offer the perfect base for your adventure. Known as "Austurland" and "Austfirdir," the region is home to steep cliffs, narrow fjords, and picturesque fishing villages along the coast.

Staying in hotels in East Iceland places you in the midst of some of the country's most breathtaking views. The top places to see in East Iceland include the majestic Vestrahorn mountain in the southeast and the striking Studlagil canyon in the Jokuldalur valley.

Home to just 2.8% of Iceland’s population, this quiet, laid-back region often remains overlooked by visitors. However, the Eastfjords offer some of the country’s best features—remarkable scenery, remote fishing villages, sparkling lakes, dense forests, and traditional farms. Staying here gives you endless opportunities to join the best tours in the Eastfjords.

Hotels in East Iceland provide comfortable accommodations nestled in these beautiful surroundings. Whether you're staying in a charming location with fjord views or a picturesque riverside town, there are options to suit every preference. Expect well-appointed rooms, friendly service, and modern amenities for a relaxing stay. 

Why Stay in East Iceland? 

Hotels in Egilsstadir and nearby towns offer an ideal base to explore East Iceland’s natural wonders. The region enjoys the sunniest weather in the country and is home to some of Iceland’s most beloved wildlife, including puffins, seals, reindeer, foxes, and mink. 

In addition to its stunning landscapes, East Iceland is rich in cultural treasures. Visit Skriduklaustur, once a monastery and later the home of famous Icelandic author Gunnar Gunnarsson, and discover the area's historical and literary heritage. 

The region also hosts vibrant local festivals celebrating its thriving arts and music scene. And if you're feeling adventurous, keep an eye out for Lagarfljotsormurinn, the mysterious creature said to inhabit the Lagarfljot river.

Looking for where to stay in East Iceland can feel a bit intimidating, especially since the area doesn’t have as many hotels compared to the Capital Region. Fortunately, there are various places near the East Fjords, which you can use as your base. 

Where To Stay in East Iceland?

Whether you choose to explore in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction of the Ring Road, planning where to stay in East Iceland based on your itinerary is a great way to ensure you don’t miss any of the highlights. Here are the best towns in the Eastfjords where you can recharge if you plan to spend multiple nights in the area:

1. Egilsstadir: The largest town in East Iceland, Egilsstadir is the main hub for services, transportation, and administration in the region. It’s an ideal spot for those traveling around Iceland’s Ring Road, offering a great place to rest and refresh. The best hotels in Egilsstadir serve as a perfect base for exploring the Eastfjords.

2. Seydisfjordur: Nestled at the inner corner of a fjord by the same name, Seydisfjordur is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and stunning waterfalls. The prominent natural landmarks, Mt. Bjolfur to the west and Strandartindur to the east, are part of Iceland’s famous seven-peak hike. 

3. Faskrudsfjordur: This small town is influenced by French culture, making it stand out from other Icelandic villages. You can see this influence in the Fosshotel Eastfjords, a former French hospital that has been renovated into one of the top hotels in East Iceland. If you're seeking something different, this is the place to stay. 

4. Borgarfjordur Eystri: A peaceful village with a population of fewer than 200 people, Borgarfjordur Eystri is perfect for those seeking solitude. Hiking is popular here, with many scenic routes, but the most famous destination is Storurd ("The Giant Boulders"), along with the beautiful mountain ring.

Top 3 Hotels in East Iceland

If you're searching for the best hotels in East Iceland, check out these top-rated options:

1. Hotel 1001 Nott - One of the top hotels in East Iceland, this hotel offers stunning mountain or lake views from every modern room. Located on the banks of Lake Lagarfljot and surrounded by the country’s largest forest, this hotel provides easy access to Egilsstadir. 

2. Hotel Aldan - Located in beautiful Seydisfjordur, this hotel overlooks a fjord and is surrounded by mountains. It consists of three buildings: Hotel Aldan, which offers deluxe rooms; Snaefell, which features a mix of comfortable rooms; and Old House, which has modern apartments.

3. Fosshotel Eastfjords - This 3-star hotel is a gem among hotels in East Iceland, known for its unique historic architecture, which once earned the European Heritage Award. The hotel offers 47 rooms with vintage French interiors and great amenities.

Plan Your Stay in East Iceland

East Iceland hotels provide an excellent mix of comfort and convenience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you choose a modern lakeside retreat, a historic fjordside hotel, or a peaceful village guesthouse, you’ll find an accommodation option that suits your itinerary.