Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
East Iceland
Why Go?
As far as you can get (some 650km) from the country's capital, Iceland's impressively var-
ied and sparsely populated east doesn't announce itself as loudly as other parts of the
country, preferring subtle charms over big-ticket attractions. The Eastfjords is the area's
most wondrous destination - the scenery is particularly spectacular around the northern
fjord villages, backed by sheer-sided mountains etched with waterfalls. If the weather's
fine, several days spent hiking or kayaking here may be some of your most memorable in
Iceland.
Away from the convoluted coast, the country's longest lake stretches southwest from
Egilsstaðir, its shores lined with perfect diversions. Head further inland and you'll come to
the forgotten farms, fells and reindeer-roamed heathlands of the empty east, and to
Snæfell, one of Iceland's prime peaks.
Ring Road motorists often simply overnight in Egilsstaðir then speed out of the east.
Lunacy! The spectacular fjords, scenic hiking trails, fascinating geology (including an
