Hallormsstadaskogur Forest (Hallormsstaðarskógur)
Hallormsstadaskogur Forest (Hallormsstaðarskógur)
Either side of Upphéraðsvegur, road 931, along the east shore of Lake Lagarfljót, you'll find Hallormsstaðarskógur, Iceland´s biggest woodland area. The forest extends for 550 ha and includes both natural birch and willow forest and plantations of introduced species.
In 1905, following centuries of degradation of Iceland's native woodlands, the forest at Hallormsstaður was protected and planting of exotic species began. These include 85 tree species from 600 locations around the world.
The Forestry Department manages the woodland and harvests some timber, to make woodchip for the woodland paths and for firewood.
At the arboretum, ‘Trésafn’, trails meander through natural and planted forest areas, with works of art on display along the way. You'll also see a sample of the many tree species that can grow successfully in Iceland.
A path connects the arboretum to the campground at Atlavík, a 30 minute walk offering fine views over the lake.
Atlavík campground is popular with locals at weekends. For years a popular music festival was held there in summer, achieving great fame when Ringo Starr performed there in 1984, alongside the Icelandic band Stuðmenn.
There are numerous walking trails in the area including a scenic two-hour circular hike starting from the forest by Hotel Hallormsstaður.