Iceland’s East Fjords (aka East coast) are a rugged and often overlooked region of the country, tucked as far from the capital as you can get. For travelers who decide to discover one of Iceland’s least-visited corners, this is your guide to the best things to do in the East Fjords.
Top 10 Attractions in the Iceland East Fjords
1. Seyðisfjörður
Nestled in the deepest reaches of a fjord by the same name, the colorful small fishing village of Seyðisfjörður is known for its thriving art scene and whimsical atmosphere. Make a visit to the Skaftafell Art Center to uncover more of the town’s artistic side, or see the famous Blue Church.
To reach this rainbow-hued town, you’ll make your way from the largest city in the East Fjords, Egilsstaðir, which takes about 30 minutes. The drive is scenic, winding over the Fjarðarheiði mountain pass along the way.
For this drive, you’ll likely want to opt for a compact SUV which will make mountain driving a breeze while also being small enough to navigate narrow town streets.
2. Hengifoss waterfall
As the third tallest waterfall in Iceland at almost 420’, Hengifoss is a must-see in the East Fjords. Striking red clay and basaltic rock formations surround the waterfall as it plunges from its cliff precipice, the Hengifossa River continuing on in the valley below.
To visit this waterfall wonder, park at the Hengifoss car park and take off on a two hour hike that is generally considered challenging and is 3.2 miles long. You’ll need sturdy boots with good ankle support for this trek!
The drive out to Hengifoss requires a reliable 4WD vehicle that can navigate gravel roads.
3. Vök Baths
Move aside Blue Lagoon! The Vök Baths are just as magical with a fraction of the crowds. These unique geothermal pools actually float on top of Lake Urriðavatn, just outside the town of Egilsstaðir and offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes.
Visitors can reach the Vök Baths on a short, 10-minute drive from Egilsstaðir. A standard car will easily suffice for this trip as there are no technical roads to navigate.
4. Stöðvarfjörður
A remote yet charming village, most visitors to Stöðvarfjörður come to see Petra’s Stone Collection, a fascinating personal collection of minerals and stones. Petra grew up in Stöðvarfjörður and spent her spare time collecting rocks from the surrounding areas.
Drive along Route 1, south out of Egilsstaðir before turning on to Route 96 and following it to Stöðvarfjörður. The entire route takes about one hour.
A mid-sized sedan is perfect for this scenic drive along the coast but you can also get by with a standard car as the roads are paved.
5. Fáskrúðsfjörður
The tiny village of Fáskrúðsfjörður is best known for its rich French heritage. Featuring a French hospital museum and charming old houses, its francophile ways are leftover from its days as a base for French fishermen. You can also pop in to the town’s French restaurant for a taste of Paris!
Fáskrúðsfjörður is just a 45-minute drive from Egilsstaðir, taking Route 1 and Route 96. This trip can easily be combined with a visit to Stöðvarfjörður, just one fjord south.
It’s recommended to rent a comfortable sedan or standard vehicle for this pretty, coastal drive.
6.Borgarfjörður Eystri
Tucked in the far northern reaches of Iceland’s East Fjords, Borgarfjörður Eystri is a haven for wildlife lovers and hikers. From puffin colonies to whale watching, this area offers striking landscapes and animal sightings. In fact, almost 10,000 puffins call the area home from April to August. The town is also said to be home to 1000 elves, so keep your eyes peeled for mischief!
Drive north from Egilsstaðir to reach Borgarfjörður Eystri, which takes about 1.5 hours in total following Route 94 the entire way. You’ll need a sturdy 4WD vehicle for this route as it’s primarily gravel roads to reach the village.
7.Reyðarfjörður
While Iceland’s role in World War II is often overlooked, the town of Reyðarfjörður highlights this little-known piece of history. Visit the Icelandic Wartime Museum to learn more about World War II in the Land of Fire and Ice.
The route to Reyðarfjörður is easily accessible via Route 1 from Egilsstaðir, a drive that takes only 30 minutes. A standard car is suitable for this well-paved route.
8. Mjóifjörður
Iceland’s East Fjords might already be off-the-beaten-path, but a visit to Mjóifjörður will really have you feeling like you’ve landed on another planet. Make your way to this remote fjord near Seydisfjordur to experience true solitude and stunning natural beauty, including the Dalatangi Lighthouse.
The drive from Egilsstaðir to Mjóifjörður takes around 2 hours in total with a combination of paved and gravel roads. You’ll need a 4WD vehicle to safely access this isolated fjord and its challenging terrain.
9. Neskaupstaður
The small town of Neskaupstaður is probably best known for its proximity to the beautiful Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve. There are plenty of hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting around town. The Easter Cave hike from town is a popular route that leads to a sea cave and shows off some of Iceland’s fascinating lava rock formations.
It takes just an hour’s drive from Egilsstaðir via Route 92 to reach Neskaupstaður. You’ll need a comfortable SUV to make the trip enjoyable because you might also want to do some gravel-road exploration.
10. Hallormsstaður Forest
The East Fjords of Iceland are home to the largest forest in the entire country, the Hallormsstaður .Forest. Much of Iceland is tree-less, which makes this an extra special place to visit that’s perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The Hallormsstaður Forest is just a 30-minute drive from Egilsstaðir. A standard vehicle is perfectly suitable for this trip as it’s a short drive on well-maintained roads.
Driving to the East Fjords: What You Need to Know
Embarking on a road trip to the East Fjords is one of the best ways to experience the untouched beauty of East Iceland. Driving in Iceland, especially in the eastern region, offers a mix of well-paved roads and gravel paths that wind through mountainous terrain and along rugged coastlines.
The Ring Road (Route 1) will be your main route as it connects most of the major attractions in East Iceland, but be prepared for detours onto narrower roads that lead to hidden gems like black sand beaches and secluded fjords.
As you drive, keep an eye out for herds of wild reindeer, especially in winter, which add a touch of magic to your journey. It’s essential to check road conditions regularly, as the weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the winter months when snow, ice, and sudden storms can make driving challenging.
Road Conditions in the East Fjords
The road conditions in the East Fjords can vary significantly, making driving in Iceland an adventure in itself. While the Ring Road is generally well-maintained and accessible year-round, venturing onto smaller routes to explore Eastern Iceland’s off-the-beaten-path locations can present challenges. These roads can be narrow, winding, and sometimes gravel, particularly when reaching remote spots like Mjóifjörður or Borgarfjörður Eystri.
In winter, these conditions are compounded by frequent snow and ice, making a 4WD vehicle highly recommended. Additionally, the East Fjords are one of the best regions in Iceland for spotting the northern lights, so plan your evening drives accordingly to catch this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Rental Car Recommendations
Choosing the right rental car is key to a smooth and enjoyable road trip in Eastern Iceland. For the main roads and well-known attractions along the Ring Road, a standard sedan or compact SUV will suffice. However, if you’re planning to explore more remote areas or drive on gravel roads, especially in winter, a 4WD vehicle is essential.
Firefly Iceland Car Rentals offers a range of affordable and reliable options, from compact sedans for city drives to sturdy SUVs perfect for tackling rougher terrains. Don’t forget, if you’re visiting in the colder months, winter tires are a must for navigating the sometimes icy roads.
East Fjords Weather: Be Prepared for Anything
Weather in the East Fjords can be incredibly unpredictable, changing rapidly from sunshine to snowstorms, especially in winter. Driving in Iceland’s East Fjords requires preparation and flexibility, as conditions can shift suddenly.
From clear days that reveal stunning landscapes of black sand beaches and towering fjords, to foggy mornings where visibility can drop quickly, it’s essential to stay updated with weather forecasts. Always pack layers, as temperatures can vary, and carry a basic emergency kit in your rental car. With the right preparation, you can also enjoy winter activities such as horseback riding, which is popular in Eastern Iceland, offering unique ways to experience the region’s rugged beauty.
Accommodation Options in the East Fjords
When planning your East Iceland road trip, consider the variety of accommodation options available along the way. From cozy guesthouses in picturesque fishing villages to modern hotels with views of the fjords, there’s something to suit every traveler. Staying overnight in different towns allows you to break up your journey and explore the East Fjords at a leisurely pace.
Plus, it gives you the chance to chase the northern lights from various vantage points, maximizing your chances of seeing this stunning natural display. With Firefly Iceland Car Rentals, you can explore all these incredible sights at your own pace, knowing you have a comfortable and reliable vehicle to get you to your next destination.
Conclusion
If you’re eager to explore Iceland’s East Fjords by car (the best way!), be sure to book your rental through Firefly Iceland Car Rentals. Not only do they provide inexpensive yet reliable vehicles, you can also check out our other guides on traveling Iceland for even more inspiration.
