Reyðarfjörður

At over 30km long, Reyðarfjörður is the longest and widest of Iceland's Eastfjords. Norwegians once operated whaling stations along the fjord, and fishing was naturally a part of the area’s history. These days the Alcoa aluminum smelter is the main employer, making this the most industrial pocket of the east. But industry doesn’t mean a lack of beauty – in fact, you may recognize some of Reyðarfjörður’s dramatic natural features if you’ve seen the British TV series Fortitude, which was largely filmed here.

Another UK connection: During World War II, the Allied forces had a base at Reyðarfjörður. The remains of the base are visible, ranging from old barracks to small gun shelters. The Icelandic Wartime Museum does an excellent job explaining the period; it’s an interesting museum in a country that has never been at war.

The town has outdoor activities that appeal to locals and visitors. A walk to the waterfall in Búðará is recommended, as is the walk towards the town centre, along the 'Love Lane'. Fishing at the local pond (called Andapollur) is a relaxing pastime, and a hike to the sheltered area beneath the shrub-covered slopes of Grænafell peak is a must. An easy, marked hiking path leads onto the mountain from Fagradalur valley, and there is also a hiking path along the beautiful Geithúsaá river ravine. Large boulders in the shrubbery could be mistaken for elf dwellings but are in fact deposits left by avalanches and landslides from the mountain.

Highlights:

Walk: Grænafell has served as the prime location for local outdoor activities for years. At the mountaintop there’s a lake, and a spectacular gorge carves the landscape beside the peak.

Taste: treats from the town’s popular bakery, or drop by Tærgesen for a meal inside a charming old building that served as a set location in Fortitude.

Road-trip: heading south and with a little extra time, you can opt for the longer scenic route (Route 955) instead of the convenient Route 1 tunnel towards Fáskrúðsfjörður.