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East Iceland
The East of Iceland is comparatively sparsely populated except for Hérað, the third largest lowland area of the country. It belongs to the old eastern basaltic region, far from the spreading zone along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and is therefore one of Iceland oldest and geologically most stable regions.
The landscape is mostly mountaineous and the largest forest and the longest lake of Iceland are to be found in the East, as well as some impressive waterfalls and plenty of rugged and remote peaks and headlands. Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier lies on the borders between the east and the south.
The glacier covers active volcanoes, subterranean lakes and provides various exploration opportunities. Visitors will find a jagged coastline, deep fjords, farmlands and fishing villages. Fisheries, fish processing, industry, forestry, agriculture and tourism are the main sources of income for the area.
There are numerous historical sites connected with the old Icelandic Saga literature and the top attractions include Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaður, Iceland’s third highest waterfall Hengifoss and Snæfell the snow mountain. In Borgarfjörður Eystri the visitor can experience rugged rhyolite peaks and the dramatic fjordlandscapes with peaceful fishing villages in between.
Tourist services and recreational activities are offered in the main towns, Egilsstaðir, Reyðarfjörður and Seyðisfjörður.
