Top 5 East Iceland Day Trips: Unforgettable Adventures
East Iceland is really something, with its majestic fjords, cute little villages, and a landscape that’s pretty special. So, if you’re planning a visit, you’ll definitely want to check out some day trips that really show off what the area has to offer. We’ve put together a list of five spots that should be on your must-see list, covering a bunch of what makes East Iceland unique. They include things from cultural hubs to untouched nature. Just keep reading to get the inside scoop!
1. Seyðisfjörður: Where Art Meets Nature
Seyðisfjörður, very likely one of the most picturesque towns you’ll ever see, is so pretty it almost looks like a postcard. This spot is nestled deep in a fjord and, really, you could argue it’s a cultural and visual treat. Famous for its vibrant arts scene, this town’s got brightly colored buildings and that iconic rainbow street leading to a picture-perfect blue church. Actually, people love capturing photos here. You can wander around art studios, hit up local cafes, and really take in the creative energy that Seyðisfjörður has got going on. And for nature buffs, the hiking trails around the fjord provide stunning views that you seriously won’t want to miss.
2. Borgarfjörður Eystri: Puffins and Hidden People
If you’re kind of wanting something that’s a little off the usual tourist path, then Borgarfjörður Eystri is probably your place. This small, rather remote village is known for its really stunning hiking spots and, it’s especially great for its huge puffin colony. That is that, you know, you can walk up to these adorable birds at close range during the summertime. There’s this cool platform that makes it easy to view them. But, too, there’s also more to Borgarfjörður Eystri. This place is also steeped in folklore, really, with tales of “hidden people,” or elves, being a big part of local stories. The Álfaborg, or Elf Rock, is thought to be home to the elf queen. It makes the scenery around the village extra enchanting.
3. Petra’s Stone Collection: A Labor of Love
Petra’s Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður is actually more than just rocks. Actually, it’s a super inspiring story of one person’s passion. Petra Sveinsdóttir spent, maybe, most of her life collecting stones from the local area, so her garden became this remarkable exhibit. Her collection has, seemingly, tons of minerals and stones. It showcases the geological variety you’ll find in Iceland. People visiting Petra’s collection seem to really love wandering through her garden. Everything is carefully displayed and it reflects Petra’s unique eye for nature’s craftsmanship. Plus, it’s a cozy and personal spot to spend an afternoon and experience something totally unique.
4. Hengifoss: One of Iceland’s Tallest Waterfalls
If you like nature, you’ll really be glad to find Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. So, it drops a whopping 128 meters. Too it’s almost set in a pretty dramatic landscape, surrounded by basalt rock layers with thin, bright-red clay in between. The hike up to Hengifoss, it turns out, isn’t a total walk in the park, yet, it’s totally worth it for the views. Along the way, as a matter of fact, you will hit Litlanesfoss. This really neat waterfall has basalt columns surrounding it. Reaching Hengifoss allows you to view raw Icelandic nature, that is a mix of geological power and a quiet feel that’s super peaceful. Anyway, make certain that you wear some strong hiking shoes. Too you’re going to have sturdy and comfy boots.
5. Lögurinn Lake: Legend and Beauty Combined
Lögurinn, basically, a serene lake surrounded by forests, is connected to some really exciting local lore. Like your local version of the Loch Ness monster, Lögurinn is supposedly home to a giant worm-like monster called Lagarfljótsormurinn. Though a lot of people go out to catch a sight of the beast, Lögurinn is very well worth a visit for its peaceful beauty too. You might appreciate it by checking out Hallormsstaðaskógur, that happens to be one of Iceland’s biggest forests. Here you can discover a few hiking trails. Also, the lake happens to be a very well liked spot for birdwatching, actually. As a matter of fact, that is offering you another way to get involved in the surrounding scenery. Clearly, you will find loads of different wildlife near this pool.
