Iceland

DJUPIVOGUR is a tiny harbour side village, which sits on a rocky promontory, in view of the offshore puffin sanctuary of Papey (boat trips bookable locally). The surrounds of the village are a nature reserve, with stunning coastal walks and hiking possibilities.

SEYDISFJORDUR this eastern fishing town, set at the head of a 16km long fjord, is full of character, and is popular with young artists. Its brightly painted wooden houses of Norwegian origin are charming and this is a beautiful spot for a pleasant stroll, simply kicking back and relaxing. The drive here up and over the mountains before sweeping down to sea level is breathtaking. 

EGILSSTADIR this lakeside town and the regional centre is an ideal base from which to discover the rest of the fjords. Fly here from Reykjavik or travel by road through particularly scenic surrounds. Nearby, around Lake Logurinn, Iceland’s most extensive forests of birch and conifer can be found as well as the country’s third highest waterfall, Hengifoss.

BORGARFJORDUR EYSTRI also known as Bakkagerdi, this little town has a backdrop of colourful rhyolite mountains on one side and the magnificent Dyrfjoll (Door Mountain) with its cleft peak, on the other. Healthy colonies of puffins, fulmars and kittiwakes ensure bird watchers are entertained and thanks to the glorious remote landscape the area is favoured by artists and hikers too. Visit the amazing turf house Lindarbakki; still lovingly cared for by its residents! Legend has it the elf queen resides in Alfaborg, a rocky mound in the village. 

BREIDDALSVIK this is the largest lowland area of the region and the mountains framing the valley are the highest in the region. For anyone interested in fishing, the salmon river, Breiddalsa is the most renowned and prolific of the area.

STODVARFJORDUR the East Fjords are famous for their colourful minerals and beautiful crystals – visit the superb collection of the remarkable Petra Sveinsdottir, on display in her home and delightful garden, just above the harbour of this fjord side village. 

NESKAUPSTADUR this has the largest population of any of the eastern towns and is a thriving fishing port. At the small Museum of Natural History, gain an insight into the flora, fauna and geology of the area and just outside of town, explore a nature reserve.

MJOIFJORDUR this 18km long and 2km wide fjord edged by sheer-sided mountains is well worth a visit and at the coffee shop in the village, taste fantastic waffles! At the mouth of the bay there is a weather station and a lighthouse.