Travel Blog

Fly, sail or drive your way to Austurland (East Iceland), and discover why getting here is only the beginning.

For travellers following The Highland Circle from Egilsstaðir, the journey towards Héraðssandur offers a chance to discover one of the quieter corners of Austurland (East Iceland). As the road leaves the town behind, the landscape gradually changes from forests, farmland and valleys to wide-open coastal scenery, eventually reaching Héraðsflói Bay and the North Atlantic.

From Fljótsdalur, the landscape opens into the wild East Iceland highlands, where waterfalls, hiking trails, hot springs, reindeer and vast wilderness await. This area is part of The Highland Circle travel route, explore the route for more inspiration and ideas for discovering this remarkable part of Austurland.

There is something special about East Iceland in autumn. As summer slowly gives way to fall, the landscape turns golden, the air becomes crisp and the pace begins to soften. The roads are quieter, the trails more peaceful, and there is a feeling that you have a little more of East Iceland to yourself. Autumn is the perfect season to slow down but that doesn’t mean there is less to do. Spend the day hiking through colourful landscapes, exploring waterfalls and forests, discovering small towns and local culture, then warm up in geothermal water and finish the evening over a memorable meal made with local ingredients. It’s a season for adventure, comfort and connection with nature, with local life, and perhaps with yourself.

For many travellers Egilsstaðir is where the journey through Austurland (East Iceland) begins. Located in the heart of Austurland, this welcoming town sits between forests, mountains, valleys and the wide landscapes of the Austurland countryside. It is also the starting point for The Highland Circle, a scenic travel route that forms a circular journey from Egilsstaðir through peaceful woodlands, fertile valleys and the remote Icelandic highlands.

Stuðlagil Canyon is one of Austurland’s (East Icelands) most spectacular natural wonders, set among the wide open landscapes of Jökuldalur. While the canyon may be the highlight, there is much more to discover nearby. Take time to explore waterfalls, cultural sites, local food and the peaceful highland landscapes that make this part of East Iceland well worth a longer stay.

Most travellers exploring Austurland (East Iceland) never make it to Vopnafjörður. That is exactly what makes this remote fjord community so special. Located on the northeastern coast of Austurland (East Iceland), Vopnafjörður is one of the communities waiting to be discovered along The Fjord Way.

Tucked away between steep mountains on the coast of Austurland (East Iceland), Mjóifjörður is one of the region’s quietest and most remote fjords. Home to a small community of around 10–15 people, Mjóifjörður is one of the unique communities to discover along The Fjord Way, a journey through the fjords and coastal landscapes of Austurland.

Many travelers who have visited Iceland before link the northern lights with Reykjavík or the south coast. Yet some of the top locations in Iceland to view the northern lights sit quietly in the east. The region stays far from crowds and city lights. If a trip to Iceland is on your calendar this winter, East Iceland deserves a closer look. Iceland sits just below the auroral oval, the band of activity around the magnetic poles. This location makes the northern lights in Iceland a near nightly possibility through the winter months. East Iceland offers even more advantages for anyone planning a hunt for the auroras.

Austurland holds some of the country's quietest landscapes, far from the crowds. Many of its best spots sit within an hour or two of Egilsstaðir, the region's largest town. A short day trip works for some, while others suit a longer road trip. Either way, these East Iceland hidden gems are worth the detour off the Ring Road. Renting a car opens up the full region, from puffin cliffs to basalt canyons hidden behind glacial rivers. Whether you're planning a scenic road trip or hoping to explore beyond Iceland's busiest destinations, East Iceland delivers. It offers plenty of rewarding detours. These hidden corners provide a deeper connection to the region's nature, history, and local culture.

The East Fjords of Iceland offer a short period of autumn color that most visitors miss. Birch forests turn amber, and morning fog often forms over the fjords. The roads are usually much quieter by October than they are in summer. This quiet stretch of Iceland's eastern region rewards patience more than any other season. Autumn also brings early chances to see the aurora, along with weather that shifts within an hour. For photographers, that means planning around light, weather, and road conditions. It also means knowing which locations look best at different times of day.

Tucked away among the colourful mountains of Austurland (East Iceland), Borgarfjörður Eystri is a small village with unforgettable character. Famous for its puffins, spectacular hiking trails, rich folklore and welcoming local community, the fjord is the perfect place to slow down and experience a quieter side of Iceland. Borgarfjörður Eystri is also part of The Fjord Way, a scenic travel route connecting the unique fjords and communities of East Iceland. From outdoor adventures and local food to culture, wellness and unique places to stay, here’s everything you need to start planning your visit to Borgarfjörður Eystri.