Eastfjords

The Trip Overview captures the serene essence of the Eastfjords. This part of the country feels like a step back in time, where the pace of life is slower and dictated by the seasons and the sea. The Ring Road twists and turns dramatically as it navigates the coastline, offering breathtaking views around every corner. This is a region for those who love driving and exploring, with each fjord revealing a new, picturesque village like Seyðisfjörður, known for its colorful houses and arts scene.

The area is also a haven for wildlife. It's the only part of Iceland where you can reliably see wild reindeer (originally imported), and the coastal cliffs, especially at places like Borgarfjörður Eystri, are teeming with puffins during the summer. Inland, the landscapes are just as impressive, with powerful waterfalls, lush forests (a rarity in Iceland), and unique geological formations. The Eastfjords reward travelers who take the time to explore its quiet beauty and hidden gems.

Reasons to Visit

• Dramatic Scenery: Experience some of Iceland's most stunning and dramatic coastal drives as the road winds in and out of long, steep fjords.
• Peace and Solitude: Escape the crowds of the more popular regions and enjoy a more tranquil, authentic Icelandic experience.
• Abundant Wildlife: Spot diverse wildlife, including large puffin colonies, seals, and the only wild reindeer herds in Iceland.
• Charming Villages: Discover picturesque and isolated fishing villages, each with its own unique character and artistic community.

Things to Avoid

• Rushing the Drive: The roads in the Eastfjords are winding and require careful driving. Don't try to cover too much ground in one day; enjoy the slow pace.
• Underestimating Distances: What looks close on a map can be a long drive around a fjord. Plan your fuel stops and accommodation in advance.
• Visiting in Deep Winter (unless experienced): Many smaller roads can become impassable in winter, and services are limited. This region is best explored from late spring to autumn.
• Expecting Bustling Nightlife: The Eastfjords are about tranquility and nature. The villages are small and quiet, with limited dining and evening entertainment options.

Local Transportation Tips

A car is essential for exploring the Eastfjords. While the Ring Road (Route 1) passes through the region, many of the most beautiful spots are located on smaller, secondary roads that branch off into the fjords. A 4x4 is not strictly necessary in summer but provides more comfort and confidence on gravel roads. Public transport is very limited and not a practical option for sightseeing.

Travel Etiquette

• Respect Private Land: Much of the land is privately owned farmland. Do not camp or wander far from the road without permission.
• Single-Lane Bridges: Be aware of single-lane bridges, which are common. The car that reaches the bridge first has the right of way.
• Support Local Businesses: The villages are small communities. Support them by visiting local cafes, shops, and guesthouses.
• Drive Carefully: Watch out for sheep on the road, especially during summer.

Did You Know?

The Eastfjords contain some of Iceland's oldest geological formations. The region's mountains are not active volcanoes like in other parts of the country, but are ancient basalt strata carved by glaciers over millions of years.

Cool Eastfjords Stats

• Reindeer Population: The entire wild reindeer population of Iceland, numbering around 6,000-7,000, lives exclusively in the Eastfjords and the surrounding highlands.
• Deepest Fjord: Seyðisfjörður, one of the most picturesque fjords, is about 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) long from its mouth to the town at its base.
• Puffin Paradise: The puffin colony at Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the most accessible in Iceland, with an estimated 10,000 pairs nesting there each summer.

Recommended Age Group

The Eastfjords are most suitable for Adults, Seniors, and interested Teens who appreciate scenic drives, quiet nature, and off-the-beaten-path travel.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not highly recommended. The long drives between stops and limited services can be challenging for traveling with infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not generally recommended. The primary appeal is scenic driving and quiet hiking, which may not hold the attention of most young children.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended for teens with a strong interest in photography, nature, or geology.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. For adults looking to escape the crowds and experience Iceland's raw, tranquil beauty, this region is a perfect choice.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The stunning scenery can be enjoyed from the comfort of a car, and there are many opportunities for gentle walks in the charming villages.

Accessibility Level: Low

• This is a remote region with challenging terrain and limited infrastructure.
• The main Ring Road is paved, but many scenic routes into the fjords are gravel and can be rough.
• Villages are small and may have uneven surfaces; accessibility at guesthouses and restaurants is not guaranteed.
• Accessible restrooms and services are few and far between outside of the main towns like Egilsstaðir.