Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE EASTFJORDS
The fjords are the true highlight of east Iceland. Despite (mostly) good surfaced roads and
the Alcoa-related activity, the Eastfjords still seem remote - a feeling enhanced by im-
mense, dramatic mountainsides and the tiny working fishing villages that nestle under
them.
There are some superb hiking trails, you can kayak to far-off headlands, and thousands
of seabirds nest along the cliffs. In a Finest Fjord competition it would be hard to pick a
winner: Borgarfjörður has ethereal rhyolite cliffs and well-organised hiking, Seyðisfjörður
fosters a cheery bohemian vibe, Mjóifjörður is riddled with waterfalls, and Norðfjörður
has a dizzying ascent/descent. You'll just have to visit and choose your own favourite.
Borgarfjörður Eystri (Bakkagerði)
Pop 90
This tiny village is in a stunning location, framed by a backdrop of rugged rhyolite peaks
on one side and the spectacular Dyrfjöll mountains on the other; the hiking in the area is
outstanding. There's very little in the village itself, although driftwood sculptures, hidden
elves and crying seabirds exude a magical charm.
For local information, check out
www.borgarfjordureystri.is
.
Sights & Activities
Hafnarhólmi
ISLAND
(
www.puffins.is
)
Five kilometres past the wee church is the photogenic small-boat harbour and islet of
Hafnarhólmi, home to a large
puffin colony
. The viewing platform allows you to get close
to these cute, clumsy creatures (and other seabirds). The puffins arrive mid-April and are
gone by mid-August, but other species (including kittiwakes and fulmars) may linger
longer.
Lindarbakki
HISTORIC SITE
