East Iceland

East Iceland

East Iceland is a vast and diverse region stretching from deep fjords and dramatic coastlines to fertile valleys, highland plateaus and rugged mountain ranges. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, strong connection to nature and ever-changing landscapes that reveal new scenery around every bend in the road.

The coastline of East Iceland is shaped by long and beautiful fjords. Among them are Borgarfjörður eystri, Breiðdalsvík,Djúpivogur, Stöðvarfjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Reyðarfjörður, Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður on Norðfjörður. Each fjord has its own character, ranging from historic trading posts to lively fishing towns.

Inland, the landscape opens into valleys, rivers and highland edges. Lagarfljót flows through the heart of the region, forever linked to the legend of the Lagarfljót Serpent. Nearby lies Hallormsstaðaskógur, the largest forest in Iceland, offering a rare contrast to the otherwise treeless country.

East Iceland is home to the country’s only wild population of reindeer. Introduced in the 18th century, they now roam the eastern highlands freely. During winter months, reindeer are often seen closer to inhabited areas, particularly in Fljótsdalur and along the highland margins near Mount Snæfell.

Waterfalls are numerous and varied throughout the region. Among the most impressive is Hengifoss, the second-highest waterfall in Iceland, with Litlanesfoss lying just below it in the same canyon. Elsewhere, visitors encounter waterfalls such as Fardagafoss, Klifbrekkufossar and countless smaller cascades tumbling down the fjord slopes.

Mountains dominate the skyline of East Iceland. The dramatic Dyrfjöll near Borgarfjörður eystri are among the most striking formations in the country, while further inland rises Snæfell, the highest free-standing mountain in Iceland. Between these peaks lie vast wilderness areas offering remote hiking routes and untouched landscapes.

During winter, East Iceland transforms into a playground for snow sports. Ski areas operate in Stafdalur near Neskaupstaður and at Bakkafjall above Seyðisfjörður, providing alpine skiing, cross-country trails and popular winter recreation for locals and visitors alike.

Culture and history are deeply woven into the landscape. French heritage shapes Fáskrúðsfjörður, creative life thrives in Seyðisfjörður, local legends surround Lagarfljót, and the famous stone collection of Petra in Stöðvarfjörður stands as one of the region’s most distinctive attractions.

East Iceland is a region best explored slowly. Long drives between fjords, quiet villages and wide open spaces create a sense of freedom rarely found elsewhere. Here, nature, culture and daily life exist in harmony, making the journey itself as memorable as the destinations along the way.