Previously, we talked about some of the major attractions in southwest and southeast of Iceland’s infamous ring road. This article will dissect the major attractions east of Iceland. Iceland proudly boasts one main road known as Route 1 or more commonly known as the Icelandic Ring Road. The road snakes all the way across the Island and is 1332 kilometers long. This magnificent road allows travelers to see all the spectacular regions of Iceland except the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords. The road connects the capital city if Iceland; Reykjavik to the second largest city in Iceland called Akureyri. Moreover, some other noteworthy towns that are connected via the ring road are Blönduós, Egilsstaðir, Höfn, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Vík, Hella, Hvolsvöllur, Selfoss and Hveragerði. Continue reading to uncover all the amazing attractions on and located near the Ring Road. We will discuss all the things you can partake in on Iceland’s famous Route 1. Additionally, we will provide you with vital information on how to locate bedazzling sparkling waterfalls, gaze upon the midnight black sand beaches, secret spots to spy on reindeers, majestic volcanoes and towering intimidating glaciers. So, keep on reading!
Ring Road’s Eastern Extravaganza
The East of Iceland is characterized by mighty rugged mountains and spectacular beautiful Fjords. Little quaint towns dot the fjords and people call it the most pretty sight you will ever see! Did we mention that if feels like stepping right into a fairytale? Unfortunately, some parts of eastern Iceland are not accessible during the winter months owing to heavy snowfall. If you are thinking of visiting the east of Iceland ant time soon, please do it during the summer as that is the best time to visit. Make sure that you clear your schedule and have a couple of days off to explore some of the fjords that require a little extra driving. Follow us along as we unravel some of the best attractions in the east you can visit.
Hofn, a picturesque little town located 50 miles (80.2 kilometers) from the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon. The town is popularly known as a small fishing town (the biggest in the area). Hofn is particularly famous for its langoustine and during the summer holds a ‘lobster festival’ (Humarhatid a Hofn) where visitors feast on amazing Icelandic lobsters! Does that not sound like absolute haven for seafood lovers?
Vestrahorn Mountain is amongst the most photographed locations in East Iceland. The East of Iceland is filled with majestic mountains, fjords, beaches but the Vestrahorn mountain mesmerizes everyone who set eyes upon it. Moreover, the never ending serenity of the beach and relatively calm serene waters aids photographers in capturing stunning reflections of the mountains in the water. In the same area is the wonderful Alftafjordur (Swan-fjord), where groups of swans assemble and is a magnificent sight for sore eyes . To either side of Vestrahorn mountain we have two different mountains, Eystrahorn and Brunnhorn, contending to be more awe-inspiring than the other.
Behold the Wild Reindeers. East Iceland is the only part of the country where visitors can gaze at wild reindeer. Initially, they were imported to the country, but some either escaped or were let loose, and now they roam wild across the lush greenery of East Iceland. Additionally, Egilsstadir, also known as the largest town dotting east Iceland and located right beside a forest and Lagarfljot river. Rumors abound that The Lagarfljot Worm (Iceland’s “Loch Ness Monster”) lives in that river. A beautiful lake called Atlavik is also located nearby and is a perfect way to do some lake camping.
The Hallormsstadaskogur Forest is located a short detour off the Ring Road. It is Iceland’s largest forest. Iceland doesn’t boast many trees, so seeing a forest is peculiar and fascinating in its own right. When you reach Hallormsstadur Forest, congratulations! You’ve made it halfway around the country and 407.6 miles (656 kilometers) from Reykjavik.
Hengifoss Waterfall is a waterfall that requires a 2.9 mile (4.7 kilometer) hike and is located on the banks of Lagarfljot lake. As the third-highest waterfall in Iceland, this waterfall stands proud at 420 feet (128 meters) tall and is a beloved sight for the locals and tourists alike. The waterfall lies on a bed of basaltic strata rocks, entrenched with red clay, providing the waterfall with an utterly bizarre and otherworldly look.
Seydisfjordur, another detour that is surely worth taking! This colorful and artistic village is located in Iceland’s most beautiful fjord. A sentiment that is echoed by everyone lucky enough to go there. The village proudly owns a world-class sushi restaurant, perfect for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Additionally, Seydisfjordur is 16.7 miles (26.9 kilometers) away from Egilsstadir via road no. 93.
We hope you had a wonderful time reading about the main attractions surrounding Southwest Iceland’s Ring Road an we hope that you will have an even wonderful time exploring them with us. This series is far from over and over the course of the next few articles, we will be unravelling the main attractions in the North of Iceland and the West of Iceland and some of the best modes of transport whether its driving, or by air (or a combination of both) you can take to travel to Iceland’s Ring Road. So, let the adventure begin, for Iceland awaits thee!
