Natural and cultural monuments in Austurland

Avalanches are magnificent natural events but also terrifying and dangerous. People have lived with the threat of avalanches in many places in Iceland for centuries, especially in coastal areas where there is heavy precipitation, steep mountains, and little lowland to build on. In these areas, towns have developed around fishing, as the steep mountains and deep fjords also provide deep waters and good natural harbours. Although the knowledge about avalanche danger has been long-standing, it was not until after two fatal avalanches in the Westfjords in 1995 that systematic avalanche prevention began. Protection may involve moving properties and infrastructure to safe places or protecting them where they are. In a country where nature is often harsh, like Iceland, preparedness against natural hazards is a normal part of living and utilizing its nature.

Hengifoss waterfall in Fljótsdalur is one of the best-known destinations in East Iceland. It is the third highest waterfall in the country, majestically standing at about 128 meters high. The Hengifoss River boasts a beautiful series of waterfalls, with Hengifoss being the most prominent. The brink of the waterfall is about 450 meters high in the hillside, and it stands out against the sky from the valley below. The waterfall plunges into a dramatic but beautiful gorge that forms a large bowl in the hillside. The gorge walls are basalt columns with notable red layers between the basalt layers. Beneath the waterfall are thick sedimentary layers formed 5 to 6 million years ago. At the top of these layers is lignite, remnants of a large forest, where pieces of tree trunks and roots are occasionally visible, pressed together by the weight of the earth. Basalt lava flowed over the forest in this depression, and sedimentary layers later settled on top of it. Two streams, both named Sellækur, flow in waterfalls and rapids down into the gorge. In the gorge are large and picturesque piles of rocks that have broken off from the sedimentary layers.

In the Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve, there are enjoyable hiking trails, including one to Easter Cave. A marked trail starts from the parking area at the edge of Neskaupstaður, following the coastline above the sea cliffs to a staircase that descends into the rocky shore by the cave. You can either continue and climb up outside the cave or return the same way. Easter Cave is a grotto carved by the waves, and at its end, you can see cylindrical holes left by trees that likely stood in a lush forest that was buried under lava about 12 million years ago. These holes are now often used as nesting sites by rock pigeons. Near the cave, you can also see beautifully shaped pillow lava, impressive rock dikes, and in some places, hollows filled with quartz crystals and other minerals. Deposits create beautiful patterns in the dark cliff walls, and water drips from the rocks. In winter, this often results in beautiful ice formations and large icicles on the cliff walls. There is a beautiful view over Norðfjörður Bay to Barðsneshorn and Rauðubjarg with its eternal sunshine. The sea, with its small creatures, stands in pools, and in summer, the cliffs are adorned with swathes of blue lilies. There is abundant birdlife along the shore, such as fulmars, gulls, eider ducks, auks, and various ducks. It is very common to see harlequin ducks in summer, and the winter wren often stays near the cliffs by the staircase, frequently singing for hikers.

Stone collecting is an exciting and rewarding hobby, full of adventures, learning, and experiences of nature's wonders and beauty. Stones have diverse shapes, colours, textures, and patterns that captivate; for example, children often have a keen interest in stones. For those who engage in it, stone collecting becomes a passion. Some argue that subconsciously, we are drawn to stones in the same way we are attracted to open fire. It is often said that stones emit energy, and in folklore, stones were even believed to possess hidden properties, such as magical stones like cloak of invisibility stones and wish stones. The East Fjords have long been known as places to find beautiful and diverse stones, but rich stone sites are also found elsewhere in the country, such as in the West and North of Iceland. In addition to museums open to the public, there are beautiful and interesting private stone collections in East Iceland.

The area on Búlandsnes, just outside Djúpivogur, is ideal for hiking, experiencing beauty and adventure, playing, learning, and enjoying a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the spirit of the slow movement, Cittaslow. It features exceptionally beautiful and diverse landscapes, with the colours of black sand, vegetated islets, and mirror-like ponds, rich birdlife, and abundant history. There is also a very scenic view of the mountains and the sea.