East Iceland
You will be impressed by the variety and contrasts of East Iceland, from the picturesque fjords to the friendly fishing villages, from the fertile valleys to the unique geological phenomena. All this is set against a background of majestic mountains and – farther away – the Vatnajökull glacier.
As the name indicates, the East Fjords are characterized by long, narrow fjords offset by steep mountains and jagged peaks. This is one of Iceland's oldest regions in geological terms, with landscapes shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. The glacial movement uncovered beautiful rock formations that can now be seen along the coast, for example at Teigarhorn. And off the shore are grassy islands that can be visited by boat.
The East Fjords also have many natural harbours, which led to the development of fishing villages in the 19th century. These seaside communities have a special charm, and in some villages the influence of Iceland's Northern European neighbours is visible in the old buildings and street names. There are also a number of small yet interesting museums here that focus on various aspects of local history, for instance World War II, French fishermen or local artists. Other exhibitions highlight nature, such as the reindeer that roam the foothills or the region's unique stones, for example at Petra's Mineral Collection.
For the active traveller, there are plenty of superb hiking routes, ranging from short hikes along the shoreline to treks in the mountains that can go on for days. A hike along the coast may offer sightings of seals and large bird colonies, including puffins, or possibly even elves if you believe the local folklore! For a completely different environment, take a walk through the large forested area near Egilsstaðir. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like horseback riding, fishing, golfing, biking and boat tours.
source: http://www.east.is and http://www.visiticeland.com/
