Location: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir, Hallveigarstígur 1, 700 Egilsstaðir, Iceland
- Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel is located in the town of Egilsstaðir, the largest settlement in East Iceland. The hotel is conveniently situated near the shores of Lake Lagarfljót, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The town is a great base for exploring the nearby natural wonders, such as the Hall Island, the magnificent Hengifoss waterfall, and the stunning landscapes of the East Fjords. The hotel is just a short walk from Egilsstaðir’s town center, which offers shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) is a short 5-minute drive away, making the hotel easily accessible for travelers arriving by air.
Accommodation:
- Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel offers 30 cozy rooms, each designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Rooms are spacious, with modern furnishings and large windows offering scenic views of Lake Lagarfljót or the surrounding countryside. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, such as comfortable bedding, flat-screen TVs, minibars, in-room safes, high-speed internet, and premium bath products. The hotel offers a variety of room categories, including single, double, and family rooms, with some rooms offering additional space and private balconies. The hotel’s welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for both short stays and longer visits to the East Fjords.
Dining Experience:
- Restaurant at Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel: The hotel’s on-site restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, serving Icelandic cuisine and international dishes. The restaurant focuses on using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, lamb, and seasonal vegetables. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes, from hearty Icelandic specialties to lighter options for lunch and dinner. The restaurant’s menu changes seasonally, ensuring that guests experience the best flavors of East Iceland.
- Breakfast Buffet: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel offers a delicious breakfast buffet each morning, featuring a selection of Icelandic staples, such as fresh bread, cheeses, cold cuts, smoked salmon, yogurt, and hot dishes. The buffet also includes fresh fruits, cereals, juices, and hot beverages, giving guests a nutritious and satisfying start to the day.
- In-Room Dining: For those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their room, the hotel offers in-room dining with a selection of Icelandic and international dishes. Guests can enjoy meals in the privacy of their room, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of sightseeing.
Activities:
- Explore Lake Lagarfljót: The hotel’s location near Lake Lagarfljót offers guests the opportunity to explore the scenic surroundings. Guests can take leisurely walks along the lake, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and observe the wildlife in the area. Lake Lagarfljót is famous for its alleged mythical creature, the Lagarfljót Worm, making it an intriguing place for folklore enthusiasts.
- Hengifoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, Hengifoss is located just a short drive from the hotel. The waterfall, with its striking red-striated cliffs, is one of the most picturesque spots in East Iceland. Guests can enjoy a hike to the waterfall, taking in the stunning landscape along the way.
- Hall Island: Hall Island is a nearby area of historical and natural interest, where visitors can explore the local flora and fauna, as well as learn about the region's history. The island offers a peaceful setting for nature lovers and those looking to experience Iceland's rugged wilderness.
- East Fjords Sightseeing: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the East Fjords, one of Iceland’s most scenic and untouched regions. Guests can enjoy scenic drives along the coast, visit small fishing villages, and explore the dramatic landscapes that make this area so unique.
- Whale Watching & Wildlife: The East Fjords are known for their incredible wildlife, and guests can take part in whale watching tours, where they may have the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, and other marine life. Additionally, the region is rich in birdlife, including puffins and Arctic terns.
- Hot Springs & Geothermal Pools: The region around Egilsstaðir offers several natural hot springs and geothermal pools, perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring. Guests can visit the nearby Vök Baths, located on the shores of Lake Lagarfljót, to experience Iceland’s geothermal energy in a modern, luxurious setting.
Facilities:
- Concierge Services: The hotel’s friendly concierge team is available to assist guests with a variety of services, including booking tours, arranging transportation, making restaurant reservations, and providing local recommendations for attractions and activities.
- Business Services: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel offers basic business services, including high-speed internet, printing, and access to meeting rooms for small business gatherings or conferences. The hotel provides a comfortable environment for business travelers visiting the East Fjords.
- Shuttle & Airport Transfers: The hotel offers airport transfers to and from Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) for guests, ensuring easy and convenient travel to and from the hotel.
- Parking: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel provides free on-site parking for guests traveling by car.
- Retail & Shopping: The hotel is located close to Egilsstaðir’s town center, where guests can find local shops, including Icelandic craft stores and boutiques selling woolen products and souvenirs. The concierge can assist with finding nearby shopping options.
- Pet-Friendly Services: Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel is a pet-friendly hotel, welcoming guests who wish to travel with their pets. The hotel offers amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for pets, and the surrounding area provides plenty of outdoor space for walking and exploring.