East Iceland is not short on space to explore and things to see, with spectacular landscapes and charming villages aplenty. While it may not be as popular a destination as Iceland South or North, this Eastern region of Iceland, referred to as the Eastfjords, has a lot to offer.
This magic place unfolds slowly, with dramatic mountains plunging into glassy fjords, winding coastal roads connecting small fishing villages, and waterfalls appearing without warning along green valleys.
Exploring with Hidden Iceland immerses you in this landscape with guides that give you a luxury experience that few travellers truly experience.
What Is East Iceland?
Our East Iceland region guide covers all the best things to see in East Iceland, starting at Stokksnes and continuing through the Eastfjords toward Seydisfjordur, Borgafjörður-eystri, Eglisstadir, and Stuðlagil Canyon.
To keep this guide focused, we’ve dedicated separate spotlights to North Iceland – including Mývatn and Akureyri – as well as the southeastern reaches of Vatnajökull National Park, as their spotlights are in their respective region guides.
Best Things to See in East Iceland
Stokksnes
Stokksnes offers one of the most dramatic introductions to East Iceland. Here, the jagged peaks of Vestrahorn mountain rise abruptly from a stretch of black volcanic sand. Wind shapes the dunes into sculptural ridges, while shallow tidal pools mirror the mountain’s sharp silhouette.
When you walk onto the beach, you are met with a vast, empty shoreline. The only sound is the Atlantic water breaking theatrically against the sand. This experience is cinematic and remarkably peaceful for such a visually striking location.
Stokksnes sets the tone of a Hidden Iceland trip to the east, dramatic scenery paired with breathtaking solitude.
Seyðisfjörður
Tucked away at the end of a deep fjord, Seyðisfjörður is one of Iceland’s most charming villages. Our expert guides will drive you across a mountain pass where waterfalls cascade down steep slopes before the road descends toward the fjord below. Suddenly, the landscape opens, and the village appears, a collection of colourful wooden houses nestled around a quiet harbour.
Seyðisfjörður is a creative hub within East Iceland with small galleries, artisan cafes, and design shops situated upon the famous rainbow-painted street that leads to the famous light blue church. Seyðisfjörður offers a slower way to experience Iceland, one where the scenery and pace of life move in perfect harmony.
Stuðlagil Canyon
For centuries, Stuðlagil Canyon lay hidden beneath glacial water. That was until 2009, when water levels dropped, revealing one of the world’s most extraordinary geological formations. Towering basalt columns line the canyon walls, rising above the turquoise waters of the Jökla River.
A scenic hike on the east-side trail leads you down to the riverbank, providing an immersive and unforgettable experience along the Stuðlagil Canyon. Standing here, surrounded by these stunning basalt columns, the canyon feels cathedral-like in scale.
Things To Do In East Iceland
Hike across Borgafjörður-eystri or toward Hengifoss
For travellers who enjoy hiking, East Iceland offers some of the most rewarding trails not only in the country, but in the world as well. Surrounded by vibrant, multi-coloured rhyolite mountains, the area forms part of the Víknaslóðir trail network, a series of routes weaving through valleys, coastal cliffs, and high mountain passes. In summer, puffins nest along the nearby cliffs, adding spectacular close-up wildlife encounters to your itinerary.
Closer to the central valley, Hengifoss leads to one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. Here, water plunges down a cliff streaked with red volcanic layers, and makes for a truly striking sight.
The Vök Baths in Egilsstaðir
After a day exploring the Eastfjords, visit the Vök Baths at Egilsstaðir for a truly restorative experience. Floating directly on Lake Urriðavatn, these geothermal pools soak you into the landscape itself. The design is distinctly Nordic, with warm wood interiors and clean architectural lines that frame the natural landscape. Egilsstaðir itself is the closest the south has to a capital, with many dining and shopping options for those staying put for a few days.
In winter, the contrast between icy air and geothermal heat becomes even more memorable, especially when the northern lights appear overhead. A perfect balance of relaxation and luxury.
Spot Reindeer
Herds of reindeer are one of the best things to see in East Iceland. They roam freely across the mountains and valleys of the Eastfjords, the only place in the country where you can see them in the wild.
During the winter, reindeer often descend from the highlands into the lower valleys, making these special sightings more likely.
When is the best time to visit East Iceland?
Summer brings long daylight hours and the best conditions for hiking and fjord exploration. Trails fully open and wildlife becomes more active – 10,000 puffins make Borgarfjörður Eystri their home every summer.
Autumn colours transform the valleys into warm gold and amber tones. Following the busy summer period, tourism slows providing a more intimate atmosphere across the region. Clear nights often bring the first northern lights of the season.
Winter reveals the moody and dramatic side of East Iceland. Snow settles on the mountain ranges, fjords become quiet and still, and the long nights create ideal northern lights conditions. Immersive and remote, winter provides a truly arctic experience. In the winter, we tend to stick to the more southern parts of this region, due to the more difficult driving conditions.
Spring arrives slowly behind winter in the Eastfjords. Waterfalls swell with meltwater, and migratory birds begin returning to coastal cliffs. Roads are quiet before the influx of summer visitors, making it perfect for visitors seeking a peaceful exploration.
Where to Stay in East Iceland
Fosshotel Eastfjords
This hotel is three-star in name only, with its exceptional dining options and unparalleled views directly from your balcony, more than making up for the modest room sizes.
Believe it or not, this building has stood for over 100 years and has been used for many purposes, including temporarily as a hospital and school. Situated in Fáskrúðsfjörður, near Reyðarfjörður, this charming hotel offers welcoming traditional rooms with remarkable views of the fjords. Set by the water in this still-thriving fishing town, Fosshotel Eastfjords unfolds across several buildings, each authentically preserving the historic spirit of Iceland.
1001 Nott
Just outside the region’s central valley, 1001 Nott offers a luxury boutique retreat overlooking Lake Lagarfljót. This hotel combines minimalist Nordic design with expansive windows that highlight the landscape. Guests can unwind in the geothermal hot tub while mist rests above the lake. A quietly luxurious way to end a day of exploration.
East Iceland FAQs
What should I pack for East Iceland?
You should pack with Iceland’s changing weather in mind. A waterproof jacket, warm mid-layers, and sturdy hiking boots are essential for exploring the fjords and hiking trails. A swimming costume is equally important to comfortably take part in geothermal bathing, part of the quintessential Icelandic experience.
How many days should I spend exploring East Iceland?
Plan at least three days to properly experience East Iceland to guarantee you see the best things in the region.
This allows time to visit Stokksnes, explore Seydisfjordur, hike to Hengifoss, relax at the Vök Baths, and discover the remarkable basalt formations of Studlagil Canyon.
Travellers who enjoy hiking or photography often choose to stay longer, and quickly discover that East Iceland rewards every extra day.
Ready to see the best of East Iceland?
Hidden Iceland creates the itinerary for your ideal getaway, shaped around your interests, your preferred pace, and the season you’ll travel.
Get in touch today by calling us at +354-770-5733 or by emailing info@hiddeniceland.is, and we’ll begin planning your adventure.
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