Eastern region of Iceland

The scenery in eastern Iceland is diverse and astounding, leaving tourists in awe. The valleys are lush, the fishing villages tranquil, and the geological phenomena unique. The beautiful mountains and rivers complement the Vatnajokull Glacier. For active tourists, both the valleys and mountain peaks offer excellent hiking routes, ranging from short to long distances. The East Fjords feature narrow fjords, steep mountains, and jagged peaks, making it one of the oldest regions in Iceland. In the summer, there is at least one festival every week with various themes, including history, music, golf, art, sports, hiking, youth art, and fishing.

Stuðlagil

Stuðlagil Canyon is one of the most unique basalt canyons in eastern Iceland, located in Efri-Jökuldalur in Fljótsdalshérað. It has become one of the most exciting tourist destinations in the area in recent years. The canyon was previously covered by the powerful glacier Jökulsá á Dal (locally known as Jökla) until the operation of the Káranhjúkar dam and the filling of the Hálslón reservoir, which caused the water level of Jökla to decrease and reveal the stunning basalt columns. Jökla is one of the longest glaciers in Iceland, stretching 150 kilometers from the Vatnajökull glacier to Héraðssandar beach. Entering Jökla or other glaciers is highly dangerous and prohibited due to their power and the fact that the water flow is not always visible on the surface. Stuðlagil Canyon features one of the largest and most beautiful basalt formations in Iceland, especially when the glacial water of Jökla is clear and transparent. The contrast between the blue-green water and colorful basalt columns is breathtaking. Like glacial rivers, the color and flow of the water constantly change with the seasons, such as turning grayish-brown during the spring snowmelt and experiencing floods from Hálslón reservoir from early August to October, although it could happen at other times as well. You can monitor the water level of the reservoir at any time. Regardless of the season, Stuðlagil Canyon is a must-visit destination, even if only for a short time!

Walker Bathhouse

Vök Baths is a geothermal attraction located on Lake Urriðavatn in eastern Iceland. It is only a 5-minute drive from Egilsstaðir, the largest settlement in the eastern part of the country, and is a must-visit destination in the area.

Hólmanes

Hólmanes is a nature reserve located between Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður in eastern Iceland. It is an ideal place for walking, where you can choose between walking along the beach or hiking up the hills. In this reserve, you can not only enjoy various bird species and unique rock formations, but also have the chance to encounter a herd of reindeer, making your journey even more memorable.

Seyðisfjörður Rainbow Street

The town of Seyðisfjörður in Iceland is known for its colors and creativity. One of its most famous features is Rainbow Street (Regnbogagatan), a beautiful community project in the city center. On a sunny day in the summer of 2016, residents decided to show some love and repair to the lovely Norðurgata street. They gathered together and painted the colors of the rainbow on the street, creating one of the most popular attractions in the eastern part of the country. Every season, tourists from all over the world visit Rainbow Street in Seyðisfjörður to take their own selfies on this colorful street surrounded by ancient historical buildings. At the end of the street stands the picturesque church of the town, often referred to as "Bláa kirkjan" or the Blue Church. Since then, residents gather every summer to repaint the street. If you are currently traveling in East Iceland or planning your next trip, we strongly recommend checking out our travel itinerary for inspiration, as Seyðisfjörður is one of the highlights along the fjord-to-fjord tourist route.