Scenic East

OVERVIEW

Marvel at the spectacular natural beauty of east Iceland, a largely undeveloped but vast landscape where less than 4% of country’s entire population lives. Nature rules here, as you will discover while driving along the extraordinarily scenic coastlines and narrow fjords. During a photo stop at the mountain pass at Fjarðarheiði, it will be easy to imagine just how difficult travel once was in this remote part of Iceland. Not far away in Lagarfljót Lake, you will see where a Loch Ness monster-type creature has supposedly been sighted since the 1400s. For a more detailed and accurate look into the area’s natural history, you will browse the Snæfellsstofa Visitor Center within the Vatnajökull National Park. A cultural museum stands nearby in the former home of celebrated Icelandic author Gunnar Gunnarsson, which doubles as a retreat for writers. Other highlights include a 14th-century parsonage that holds a revered chalice and Hallormsstaður, Iceland’s largest forest.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive through the gorgeous, almost entirely undeveloped landscape of eastern Iceland.
• Pause for photos at elevated viewpoints where nature’s beauty is on full display.
• See the lake where a Loch Ness-like creature has supposedly been spotted for centuries.
• Visit a 14th-century parsonage and browse natural history exhibits in a national park.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.