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About Austurland
Austurland (East Iceland) is characterized by small villages, dramatic coastlines, narrow fjords, waterfalls and mountains. The nature is always close and the scenery is breathtaking. The destination offers outstanding outdoor experiences all year around. A great range of some of Europe’s best hiking trails, rugged and exciting highlands.

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Travel Blog

  • Photographer: Ragnhildur Aðalsteinsdóttir

    Hygge in East Iceland: Embracing Cozy Local Life and Traditions

    Experience the Icelandic version of hygge in the East Fjords. Learn about cozy local traditions, warm cafes, and the slow pace of life in the East.
  • Skiing in the East Fjords: Best Slopes and Local Mountains

    East Iceland offers a winter landscape that feels largely untouched by the modern rush. While many travelers head north for downhill thrills, those who venture east discover something quieter. Here, mountains rise straight from the sea, and the snow stays crisp beneath wide, open skies. In the East Fjords, skiing in Iceland takes on a different rhythm. Deep fjords, narrow mountain passes, and a lingering sense of calm shape the experience. Accessible ski resorts sit alongside rugged backcountry terrain, creating a balanced mix of comfort and adventure. In winter, the pace slows. You’ll find yourself sharing the slopes with locals who have skied these peaks for generations. All while looking out over the dark blue waters of the North Atlantic.
  • Photographer: Ragnhildur Aðalsteinsdóttir

    Snowshoeing Iceland: Winter Trails in the East Fjords

    Snowshoeing in Iceland’s East Fjords offers a quieter rhythm. Here, winter settles gently over steep mountains and narrow fjords. It softens rough terrain and turns summer hiking paths into calm white corridors. For travelers seeking winter activities beyond the usual routes, this region feels refreshingly off the beaten track. Snow falls overnight. Wind shapes the drifts. By morning, your footprints may be the only ones crossing a hillside above the sea. A snowshoe hike here embraces the silence found between the peaks and the ocean. This guide explores the best trails for snowshoeing in East Iceland. Learn essential safety tips for the Arctic winter. And discover why the East remains a primary choice for a peaceful snowshoe hiking tour.
  • Photographer: Ragnhildur Aðalsteinsdóttir

    Cross Country Skiing in Iceland: Top Trails in East Iceland

    Want to experience cross-country skiing in Iceland? Explore East Iceland’s quiet, scenic winter trails?

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Towns of Austurland

Borgarfjörður eystri

Borgarfjörður eystri

You’re in good company in this beautiful region: around 100 friendly locals populate the village, tourists pass through to enjoy the surrounds (includ
Breiðdalsvík

Breiðdalsvík

Tiny Breiðdalsvík is a relatively young fishing village with some surprises and plenty of small-town hospitality. It lies on the coast with great seas
Djúpivogur

Djúpivogur

In the southern pocket of East Iceland, life moves at an unhurried pace. The scenic town of Djúpivogur is part of Cittaslow, ‘an international network
Egilsstaðir

Egilsstaðir

The hub of the east, Egilsstaðir is the largest town in the region and it’s home to all the services a traveler might need. Across the bridge is the s
Eskifjörður

Eskifjörður

Eskifjörður and its surrounds are a fabulous microcosm of the east, with attractions that neatly sum up the region’s appeal. History and nature work t
Fáskrúðsfjörður

Fáskrúðsfjörður

Fáskrúðsfjörður dishes up a Gallic surprise in the middle of the Eastfjords: a strong historical connection to France that today is showcased and cele
Fljótsdalur and Hengifoss area

Fljótsdalur and Hengifoss area

Fljótsdalur is a valley in Austurland, named after Lake Lagarfljót, which flows through it. The valley is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes an
Mjóifjörður

Mjóifjörður

In a country that specializes in unspoiled and out-of-the-way places, Mjóifjörður might just take the title of ‘most remote’.   Its name translates as
Neskaupstaður

Neskaupstaður

Neskaupstaður is about as far east as you can go in Iceland, and soaring mountains provide a scenic backdrop to the town (which is sometimes called No
Reyðarfjörður

Reyðarfjörður

At over 30km long, Reyðarfjörður is the longest and widest of Iceland's Eastfjords. Norwegians once operated whaling stations along the fjord, and fis
Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður

Color and creativity abound in Seyðisfjörður, a village filled with bright cottages and artist studios. Recently it has become famous for its photogen
Stöðvarfjörður

Stöðvarfjörður

Stöðvarfjördur is the only Eastfjords town that the Ring Road travels directly through, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the un
Vopnafjörður

Vopnafjörður

There’s good reason to turn off the Ring Road (Hwy 1) at Route 85: the secluded town of Vopnafjörður sits pretty on a scenic stretch of coastline, sur

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Practical Information

It is important to keep a few things in mind when travelling in Iceland. It is necessary to keep up with the weather forecast, even during summer, and road conditions. You must get familiar with the Icelandic Króna (currency) and pack appropriately for the season you are visiting, you can expect all kinds of weather all year round. And there is no need to buy water because the tap water is great!

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