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Akranes fishing town in the west region Iceland Akranes is a town by the coast in western Iceland with a population of 8,550 as of January 2023. It is only about an hour’s drive from Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. Akranes is an old name mentioned in the book of Settlements in the Icelandic Sagas; understandably, however, the town didn’t exist until centuries later. Like most towns and villages by the coastline of Iceland, Akranes traces its origin to rich fishing grounds right by the shore. For centuries, the bay of Faxaflói was an important source of protein for Icelanders, in addition to agriculture. At the end of medieval times, a cluster of fishing farms and fishing posts formed a tiny fishing village at Akranes. However, it wasn’t until the late sixteenth century and into the seventeenth century that Akranes started to develop as a town—an early development for any town in Iceland. Then, in the last quarter of the eighteenth century, the first dock was built, and the first docked vessels began operating. Finally, at the turn of the twentieth century, motorboats took over from rowing boats and docked vessels, and Akranes started to grow as a town. A fishing town that lost its place in the fishing industry Playground in Akranes town Today, Akranes is a thriving town with fishing and fish processing still the primary foundation of its economy. In contrast, it is symbolic how the fishing company Haraldur Böðvarsson—the main company in Akranes for decades that towered over all other businesses—has ceased to exist. It was the pride of the community but merged with a fishing company in Reykjavík city after the fishing quota system was developed, reduced the share of fishing in the town’s economy. Today, commerce and industry are also significant for the town. After a tunnel under Hvalfjörður fjord opened in 1998, Akranes became a part of the larger capital area as transportation to Reykjavík shortened considerably. It is not uncommon that people who live in Akranes work in the larger capital area around Reykjavík. A fishing town that turned into a semi suburb Akranes harbor The houses in Akranes mostly consist of single-family ones from the seventies and eighties, although the town has seen new apartment buildings in recent years and decades. Throughout the centuries, most of the houses were turf huts, with the first timbered house being built in 1871. Even though the town is old compared to t counterparts in Iceland, there are almost no old buildings or houses to be seen anywhere. Today, all houses in Akranes are heated with geothermal heating from the Reykjavík heating and energy plant, Reykjavík Energy. Akranes is part of the green energy revolution and development that started in Iceland almost a century ago. As the town lost its standing in the fishing industry, it turned into a suburb and became part of the capital. It is still growing and expanding, which has not always been the case with communities that have lost their place in the fishing industry after the introduction of the fishing quota. Living in a town like Akranes is a good option for people who value closer access to nature and small communities rather than the hustle and bustle of city life. Akranes is a nice town but doesn’t have a lot to offer to tourists Akranes town center Like most towns and villages in Iceland, residents are content with the service provided by the municipality of Akranes. The town offers the usual amenities and service required in a modern community, like a preschool, primary school, middle school, and high school. Akranes also has excellent facilities for sports and has housed, for decades, one of the best soccer teams in Iceland. It has a good sports center, swimming pool, and community center. Akranes also has a music school, library, a typical Icelandic local folk museum, and a photographic gallery, making it an excellent modern community to raise children and live a good family life. You will also find restaurants and cafes in the town center. It is, however, difficult to see how the town can participate in the tourist industry being so close to Reykjavík, appearing more as the latter’s suburb rather than a town. To visit Akranes also requires a loop from the main road. It does not have anything particularly interesting to offer that makes it unique enough for a visit, and there are no interesting natural wonders nearby. But for those who are travelling the Ring Road and don’t want to stay in the city, Akranes is a good alternative for accommodation. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland. Accommodations, hotels, and guesthouses close to Akranes town Hotel Laxárbakki Location:  Situated on the bank of Laxá River, approximately 12 km from Akranes. Description:  Hotel Laxárbakki offers rooms with both private and shared bathrooms, as well as a cottage option. Guests have access to kitchen facilities, a washing machine, hot tub, and sauna. The on-site restaurant serves meals from morning into the evening. Quality Remarks:  The hotel is praised for its diverse activity options in the area and its proximity to various tourist attractions in Southwest Iceland. Bjarteyjarsandur Farm Location:  Nestled by the fjord with a lovely seashore, this family-owned farm is a short drive from Akranes. Description:  Bjarteyjarsandur Farm offers accommodations in a friendly campsite, mountain cottages, and the old farmhouse. Guests can experience real Icelandic sheep farming and participate in seasonal farm activities like sheep shearing and wild mussel picking. Quality Remarks:  Emphasizing high-quality, environmentally sustainable products, the farm provides a genuine Icelandic cultural experience.

Borgarnes town is a busy tourist pitstop The town of Borgarnes in West Iceland, with about 2000 inhabitants in January 2023, is probably among the country’s busiest tourist destinations, at least as far as Icelanders’ footfall is concerned. The reason is a bridge built by the government over Hvítá River and Borgarfjörður Fjord on the Ring Road, road no. 1, in the early eighties. At that time, the main highway was relocated from outside the town to go through the town’s center. Soon after, somehow, someone figured out that people coming from Reykjavik had an urge to stop near the new bridge or needed to stock up for their onward or return journeys. This holds true even today, and time has revealed a similar trend about people visiting the town from the north before they cross the bridge. The response of the locals to this urge of the travelers to have a “pit stop” for food and refreshments was to build gas stations and service centers, especially at the end of the bridge. It feels like the logical pit stop whether you are coming from the south or north. Attractive town overshadowed by commercial activity Borgarnes town shoreline by Borgarfjörður fjord Borgarnes’ downtown has moved closer to this spot around the bridge in recent years. There, you will find a bakery, restaurants, roadside burger joints, banks, grocery stores, and gas stations. Unfortunately for Borgarnes and its visitors, all this activity around gas, food, and beverage overshadows what is really interesting about the place. The town enjoys a beautiful location when compared with many other towns and villages in Iceland. It is mostly perched upon rocks and hillocks that are spectacular. Borgarnes also has an island, which you could see if you take the time to drive around the small town instead of going straight through it. While walking around the small hills and along the shoreline, you will find many photogenic opportunities. Apart from that, the town doesn't have a lot to offer, nor are there any fascinating natural wonders nearby. It is more or less a service town and a good one in every sense of the word. Borgarnes is more connected to agriculture than most towns Houses in Borgarnes town in Iceland Although the Book of Settlements doesn't mention Borgarnes, the area around Borgarfjörður Fjord has a significant role in Egil's Saga, one of the books of the Icelandic Sagas. The site also had a huge historical role during the time we call Sturlungaöld, during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Some of the most powerful and wealthiest chieftains of the time lived close to Borgarnes. After the Middle Ages, up until the eighteenth century, most of the area's history evolved around small farming and hardships. It wasn't until the middle of the eighteenth century that the place developed as a town and trading post. Today, most homes here are single-family houses, although a few apartment buildings have risen in recent years. All houses and businesses in Borgarnes are heated with geothermal heating from Reykjavík Energy, the Reykjavík heating and power company. Thus, Borgarnes is a part of the green sustainable energy revolution that started in Iceland more than half a century ago. A municipality that offers good service to its residents Borgarnes sports facility and swimmingpool As a municipality, the town offers quality service to residents as most towns and villages in Iceland do. There are preschools, a primary school, a middle school, and a library. Borgarnes has an excellent swimming pool, sports center, and soccer field. There is also a music school that has been offering music lessons since 1967. Like many towns in Iceland, Borgarnes also has a local museum, and the town provides all of the necessary facilities and services that a modern-day tourist town must offer. Other key features of the town include a variety of accommodation facilities, a great camping site, nice cafés, restaurants, gas stations, and much more. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Álftafjörður is a shallow fjord with abundant birdlife On some of the routes in Iceland, there aren’t many natural wonders such as waterfalls, hot springs, or glacier lagoons that you can stop by, enjoy, and photograph. On the other hand, you will find interesting mountains, rivers, streams, and valleys that make these routes quite scenic. First and foremost, these routes are pleasant drives with fascinating stops where you can enjoy spectacular surroundings rather than one particular or specific place. On this note, the Álftafjörður fjord located in the eastern region of Iceland is one such place. It opens on the Ring Road, Road Nr. 1 in Iceland, soon after you pass the fascinating Eystrahorn coming from the southern region. Interestingly, this portion of the road by the coast did not open until the eighties when it replaced an old mountain path or a dirt road in between the mountains. The fjord is a spectacular geological phenomenon, and it is most certainly a joy to drive, an ideal place to stop by for a picnic, and a great place for short relaxing hikes and photography. East Region on map of Iceland Wander in the middle of a natural wonder Álftafjörður fjord in the east region in Iceland One could say that the fjord is a natural wonder. It is part of an old caldera that is partly underwater by the shoreline. The west side of the caldera is above sea level forming the grounds for Road Nr. 1. So when you are driving, you are actually within an old volcano. The Álftafjörður fjord and the surrounding mountains, which form spectacular peaks and valleys, constitute the oldest geological part of the island. The fjord is quite shallow with its sand bottom, sand reef, and small islands protecting it from the forces of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can observe how the sediment that the rivers and glaciers have carried to the coastline over millions of years form the landscapes. Additionally, the shallow and often calm water in the fjord makes it a perfect resting location and living habitat for large birds such as the Icelandic Whooper Swan. This is probably the reason why the fjord is named Álftafjörður or The Whoopers Swan Fjord. Moreover, the fjord has a lowland on the south side that is perfect for a short hike. You can park your car by a short dirt road or in a small parking lot close to the small Blátjörn lake to your right and wander out toward the shore. The calmness of nature Álftafjörður or The Whoopers Swan Fjord Here, you will most likely find the kind of peace and quiet anyone traveling to Iceland should look for—especially if you are not in a rush to visit all the natural wonders from your checklist. In this regard, Álftafjörður is more like a place to find relaxation and nourishment for the soul. Indeed, it is a vast natural wonder encased in an old volcano where you can wander around and contemplate rather than merely view and document it with one camera shot or a selfie. Although the fjord is impressively photogenic with its beautiful landscapes, it is a place more suitable for the mind in particular. Moreover, in the fjord, it is possible to spot many species of birds, wandering sheep, reindeer, and possibly arctic foxes. Overall, it is a significant contrast to the rush of any big city. West of the fjord in the mountains surrounding the four valleys Álftafjörður is more like a place to find relaxation and nourishment for the soul Toward the west, at the bottom of the fjord, there are two valleys named Hofsdalur Valley and Geithelladalur Valley, and Hofsdalur Valley also splits into two other valleys. So, there is a lot to see and sense in addition to the spectacular view at the shore. Furthermore, the fjord is also surrounded by many stunning mountains, some of which are accessible and provide a better view, especially on the southern side. The mountains on the northern side are all quite high, steep, and fascinating. Indeed, it is a beautiful drive from Eystrahorn to the Hamarsfjörður fjord as you head for the spectacular drive towards the East Fjords. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Beljandi is lower than most stunning waterfalls and unusually wide Beljandi is a beautiful waterfall in the Breiðdalsá river located in the Breiðdalur valley near the Brekkuborg farm. Located in the eastern region of Iceland, the waterfall is a short loop away when driving along the Ring Road or the East Fjords. On another note, it is definitely worth visiting, especially if you also head to the similarly stunning nearby waterfall named Flögufoss. East Region on map of Iceland Beljandi waterfall has a spectacular surrounding One of the many characteristics of the Beljandi waterfall is that, contrary to many other Icelandic waterfalls, Beljandi is lower than most stunning waterfalls and unusually wide at the same time; in fact, it measures only about two to three meters in height, but it is quite wide. Its beauty comes from its direct spring-fed water source that keeps the stream clean and refreshing. Contrary to high-volume glacial rivers that are usually dirty and contaminated with sand, small rocks, and deposits, this waterfall is a beautiful sight to watch as it glimmers with the clean water flowing over and between basalt rocks and vegetation. Furthermore, another characteristic is the sheer volume of water flowing from it; additionally, it is distinguished by the fact that the waterfall is located on a lowland in the middle of the valley, as compared to many other spectacular waterfalls in Iceland that flow down the slope of a mountain or cliffs. Moreover, when you stand by the waterfall, you can revel in the great surrounding of the valley of Breiðdalur, including the spectacular mountains forming a beautiful background for any photo you might take. The waterfall is quite photogenic, which serves well for selfies and professional photoshoots with a tripod and various configurations. In my experience, this is one of the more interesting waterfalls for filters and long exposure photos—in particular, we recommend the parking lot on the south side for such photos. Easily accessible from the main road and the Ring Road Beljandi is an ideal place for waterfall photography The Beljandi waterfall is easily accessible from the Ring Road in Iceland. If you are traveling from the south coming from the village named Breiðdalsvík, turn on road 1 to road 966 in Breiðdalur by the church and Heydalir farm. This is a road where you can drive slowly and look for and take advantage of many excellent photo opportunities. Drive past the turn to road 964 and then past the road to the Fagridalur farm. Although not marked with a sign, you can find a small sign that says Efri Beljandi, which is the name of a place dedicated to salmon and trout fishing by the waterfall. The drive on road 966 from the main road to the sign is about 10 to 15 minutes. Here you must be very careful and quiet as the river is a salmon fishing river, and there might be fishermen whom you don't want to disturb. A beautiful quiet place by the banks of the Breiðdalsá river There are many ways to define the foreground There is a nice parking lot by the waterfall. The whole surrounding is stunning with its beautiful countryside and the spectacular mountains all around. The waterfall is especially appealing to photographers as there are actually two waterfalls, and it poses quite a challenge to capture them both. For this purpose, just walk around but not too close to the bank to find a good spot for your tripod. Due to the low nature of this waterfall, it is a nice experiment to lower the camera and have the folding river as a foreground. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Blábjörg is quite unique—one of Iceland’s oldest features Driving from the northern part of Iceland on the Ring Road in Berufjörður fjord, after passing the Þiljuvellir farm on your right and just before you come to the Fagrihvammur farm, you will notice a small blue cliff by the shore. That is Blábjörg or the Blue Cliff (even though it appears turquoise-blue or green), a cliff by the Ring Road in the Eastern Region. Even though this natural wonder is quite astonishingly beautiful, sometimes it can be hard to notice, so you must keep your eyes open. Although it might look like just another cliff in the endless multitude of geological phenomena on the island, Blábjörg is quite unique—one of Iceland’s oldest features, it was formed in a violent eruption of overheated gases and volcanic ash around nine million years ago, like the surrounding mountains. However, its distinction arises from its geological definition as an ignimbrite, which means that the magma composing it was silicic rhyolite ash. It is unlike the more significant, much younger features made of basalt lava in the middle of Iceland, some as young as a few months old, like the recent lava in Geldingadalir on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Blábjörg, the final product of the prehistoric eruption, is a version of compressed ash. If you look up the hills of the mountain to the east, you can see how the ignimbrite continues upward from the shoreline. Coming from the south, the cliffs are not difficult to miss, as they are barely in view; you must remember that they are located a few hundred meters after you pass the Fagrihvammur farm to your right. The cliffs are impressive, a spectacular sight, and worth the walk down the steps to the beach for a better view. East Region on map of Iceland Established as a nature reserve Notice how the blue ignimbrite continues upward from the shoreline The cliffs and their unique color are particularly eye-catching, even in the midst of the Berufjörður fjord’s gorgeous scenery and the magnificent mountain Búlandstindur in the background. There is also a small pillar in front of the cliffs in the tideline, sometimes in the water and sometimes on the sand beach, that makes this wonderful place even more interesting. Even so, it is not only the color of the cliffs that stands out; they are also of considerable geological importance and contribute to Iceland’s fascinating geological history. In their lifetime, they have seen and withstood all the forces that exist in a volcanic island in the Arctic—ocean forces, glacier tongues, ice cover, tectonic movements, and much more—and here they still are, displaying their millions of years of accumulated beauty. This is the reason Blábjörg was established as a nature reserve in 1999, making it a protected entity. When you are there, you must follow the path and remember that climbing the cliff is not allowed. An excellent place for photography There are many viewpoints an avid photographer can discover in this place Blábjörg is an excellent place for photographers, or anyone interested in photography for that matter. It is a great place to take exceptional photos on any type of tour or visit. It is rarely crowded, and it is not unusual to have the place all to oneself. Interestingly, the area west of Blábjörg, by the beach, is also quite breathtaking, especially the small arch in the sea and all the cliffs around it. If you are not in a hurry, it is a relaxing place, and a walk to the top of the lava cliffs in the west is rewarded with many brilliant photo opportunities against the background of the beautiful Berufjörður fjord and the mountains. There are many viewpoints an avid photographer can discover in this place; they can take advantage of the rich birdlife around the cliffs as well. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Fardagafoss is perfect for this kind of outdoor activity and, therefore, a good alternative for families and children traveling in Iceland. Fardagafoss is a small waterfall located a short distance from the town of Egilsstaðir in the East Region. Visiting the waterfall is like a short hike but worth it as the waterfall is always a delightful and enlightening experience. Although not a long hike, the rocky and partly steep path by the river seems harder to climb than it is. Yet, don’t hesitate to go all the way up. You can feel your bloodstream moving as you walk along a river upstream, and you get to see another stunning waterfall along the way. Fardagafoss is perfect for this kind of outdoor activity and, therefore, a good alternative for families and children traveling in Iceland. It is an outdoor activity with an adventure and takes between an hour to ninety minutes. It is a great venue if you are traveling along the ring road in the Eastern Region, and you need to release some energy before proceeding ahead. Along the way up the gully, you should definitely stop for a moment at the other waterfall—Gufufoss. At this point, you will also enjoy a great view of Egilsstaðir town and the beautiful valley of Fljótsdalur as well as get a glimpse of Snæfell mountain in the eastern part of the highland. East Region on map of Iceland Fardagafoss and the stories On the hiking path close to Gufufoss waterfall Apart from being a natural wonder, the waterfall also has a remarkable story about a mysterious cave behind the falling water. For centuries, a troll supposedly lived in the cave behind the waterfall and guarded Fardagafoss until the cave collapsed. Although you can still crawl behind the waterfall and view the remains of the cave, the cave was much bigger and deeper in the past. It was even thought to have a tunnel going through the mountain and all the way to Seyðisfjörður fjord. The story of the troll makes the waterfall an even better option for families and people traveling with children. It is not only a waterfall but also a part of mystical folklore. Fardagar refers to old laws and regulations Fardagafoss and Gufufoss are located only five kilometers from the town og Egilsstaðir The name refers to the period in history when people who had nothing were bound by law to live in one place or a particular farm. During May and June every year, a frame opened for farmworkers to change their home address and place of residence. It may seem strange today, but it was part of an agrarian society in need of labor stability. It was unfair and an obstacle to development toward industrialization that occurred rather late in Iceland. However, in Fardagar, you had a short window to move to another farm, and for some reason, the waterfall is named after that time. Fardagafoss and Gufufoss are located only five kilometers from the town and are among the places you should visit if you are in the area, or at least if you are planning on visiting the beautiful fjord and town of Seyðisfjörður. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Flögufoss flows through a small stone arch from the terrace all the way down to the bottom of the cliff Flögufoss is an impressive waterfall in the valley Breiðdalur valley in eastern Iceland, close to the small village of Breiðdalsvík. The valley is part of a vast caldera formed around nine million years ago. Like many old calderas, it hasn't erupted for a long time but has collapsed and is sunk in layers of lava under an ice cap, which has formed a base for sediments and lakes. Although the waterfall doesn't have a large volume of water, especially in late summer, its beauty comes from its height of 60 meters. Located in the beautiful surroundings of the magnificent valley Breiðdalur, the waterfall speaks volumes with its incredible geology. On the terrace near the top of the waterfall, another small waterfall falls. The waterfall flows through a small stone arch from the terrace all the way down to the bottom of the cliff. Interestingly, although the entire setup is hundreds of thousands of years old, the waterfall changed its path and started flowing through the stone arch only two decades ago. The old path of the waterfall can be seen at the top by the arch's side. This natural makeover gives the waterfall a much more striking look. East Region on map of Iceland Flögufoss is a waterfall with stunning surroundings The drive to Flögufoss parking lot is only a short distance from the main road 1 Behind the top of the waterfall, there is a magnificent mountaintop called Smátindsfjall, or Small peak mountain. The edges are called Smátindar. These are a group of steep and high lava peaks, made of basalt over thousands of years ago, sitting on a chunk of old rhyolite lava ash piled up in an eruption under the ice. The peaks can also be seen from the next fjord Berufjörður, which is located south of Breiðdalsvík and Breiðdalur. On the other hand, they are called Smátindur or Small peak. Flögufoss is an excellent place for photography and, similar to many exciting places in the East Region, undiscovered. Flögufoss is easily accessible. Behind the top of the waterfall, there is a magnificent mountaintop called Smátindsfjall The drive to Flögufoss parking lot is only a short distance from the main road 1 on the Icelandic Ring Road in Breiðdalur. It is a 15-minute light hike to the waterfall from the parking lot. It is an excellent addition to a visit to the beautiful Beljandi. A waterfall that is almost a full contrast to Flögufoss, low and wide. When driving from Breiðdalsvík, you need to take a left turn on road 966; it is a right turn coming from Egisstaðir. Essure that you don’t miss it. The best way to get a good view is to walk up the slope on the left side until you see the whole waterfall, the stone arch, and the mountain peak in the background. But for photographers, it is a great challenge to capture all angles in one frame. Note that this waterfall has not been photographed very often. It is a natural wonder made for drone photography, as the main background is high above the waterfall. It has a difficult point of view that a drone can easily fix. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

But there is one exception in the case of a mineral, the Iceland spar. Helgustaðanáma (Helgustaðir quarry) is the only place in Iceland where mining is carried out. This lack of mining is due to the younger geological age of the land. It takes millions of years to create gold, diamonds, granite, coal, or oil, for that matter. Throughout the centuries, we dug up wooden coals, a primitive stage of coal to heat the houses, but that was more of digging than mining. So Iceland as a geological phenomenon hasn't been around long enough to create minerals of value. But there is one exception in the case of a mineral, the Iceland spar. In addition, if you will, the enormous amount of water available both on the surface and in the ground with a wide range of temperatures, we have found a way to use that to provide heat to the houses and produce electricity. It is not mining, but a way to take advantages of resources in the ground. East Region on map of Iceland The Icelandic spar and its contribution to science The Iceland spar was exceptionally clear The spar, known as Iceland spar or Iceland crystal was discovered at a remote location by the Helgustaðir farm, to the east of the small town Eskifjörður in the 17th century. The beautiful transparent glassy rocks, called silfurberg in the Icelandic language, had been visible in the rock face but simply to please those who were living in the area – or traveling from Eskifjörður to Vöðlavík cove by the shoreline. Spar is a type of calcite crystal, fully transparent and can split light into two parallel beams. It was a vital component in the early microscopes, as the Iceland spar was exceptionally clear. The Iceland spar became a commodity when this characteristic of it was discovered, and the mining began. As a result, large quantities were exported to Europe since the 17th century until the quarry was closed in 1924 due to newer microscope-making technologies. The largest piece ever removed from Helgustaðanáma weighed 220 kilos and can be found in the British Natural History Museum. The Iceland spar was also crucial in research, which led to the discovery of the wave nature of light. It also contributed to many discoveries in physics, chemistry, and geology. Most of the spars you find in museums across the world are from Helgustaðanáma quarry. So for anyone, young and old, who is interested in science, this is a great stop. It is a great place to take kids while traveling in Iceland. A preserved mine with a fascinating history Helgustaðanáma is preserved as a nature reserve and has been since 1975 Today, Helgustaðanáma is preserved as a nature reserve and has been since 1975. It is open to visitors, but they have to hike a 50-meter walk uphill to reach the quarry's mouth. At the quarry, you will find a cave from the days of mining. You can still see the rocks sparkling with calcite. It goes without saying that it is strictly forbidden to remove even the smallest stone or any kind of samples from the quarry. While visiting, it is also important to follow paths and guidelines. Helgustaðanáma is of great value and is reserved because of its role in the history of science and for future generations to visit. In 2017, a protection plan was implemented by the government of Iceland for Helgustaðanáma, and The Environment Agency of Iceland now administrates the quarry. A great place to have a view over the fjords Also at the mine, you have a beautiful view over the fjords, Reyðarfjörður, and Eskifjörður Helgustaðanáma is easy to visit. First, you need to drive a short distance from the Ring Road in the East Region of the small town Eskifjörður. In the town, you drive east on road no. 954. When you pass by the farm Helgustaðir, you will see a sign pointing to the quarry. You might like to enjoy the uninhabited country to the north and east of the mine, with hiking trails crossing mountains and valleys while you are there. Also at the mine, you have a beautiful view over the fjords, Reyðarfjörður, and Eskifjörður, a spectacular sight. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Álftavatn lake at Fjallabak in Icelandic Highland Many places in the Icelandic Highland are seldom visited due to their isolation and inconvenient access for vehicle. In that sense, they are challenging locations that are mostly visited by hikers. This, on the other hand, does not apply to Álftavatn lake, or ‘Swan Lake’, located by the popular hiking track Laugavegur and one of the most exciting 4X4 Highland mountain roads in Iceland: Syrðri Fjallabak. There is a popular mountain cabin and a camping site by the lake and many hikers on the Laugavegur track choose to stay there overnight as Álftavatn is conveniently situated for a rest on the 54-kilometer hike. Furthermore, the lake is located in a peaceful landscape surrounded by beautiful mountains characteristic of the southern part of the Highland. You also have an excellent view of Torfajökull and the rhyolite mountains north of the lake. During the summer months, Álftavatn is quite busy with hikers and even has a café. Map of Highland in Iceland The southern part of the Icelandic Highland Driving to Álftavatn is quite challenging and requires a good modified 4X4 vehicle. Like Iceland’s lakes, caves, stacks by the shore, hills, cliffs, and other areas in the landscape, Álftavatn lake has its folklore. Early in the eighteenth century, a farmer from a farm close to the southern shoreline traveled to the lake to hunt for whooper swans, as he did annually. One summer, he traveled with his thirteen-year-old daughter to catch swans. At one point, he rode his horse from the shore into the lake, fell off the horse, and drowned. The daughter traveled back home, which was a day's journey, and gathered some men and help. Despite a thorough search, the farmer was not found. The night after the search team came back, her mother had a dream where her husband asked the search team to come back and fetch his body under a particular cliff by the east side of the lake. The next day the search team went back and found the farmer's body under that cliff. Although considered to be folklore, it is a true story. Many people in Iceland believe that a message from the deceased can be sent through dreams and here is your proof, by Álftavatn lake in the Icelandic Highland. Access is not simple There is a popular mountain cabin and a camping site by the lake Driving to Álftavatn is quite challenging and requires a good modified 4X4 vehicle. The Highland track Syðri Fjallabak is the most difficult highland road that is open to travelers in Iceland. Additionally, it is only open from the beginning of July (often from the middle of July) until late September, but, nonetheless, it is a fascinating drive with such a variety of places to view, visit, and photograph that I always consider it one of my favorite roads. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland.

Today, there are merely around 30 inhabitants in Mjóifjörður, with most of them in Brekkuþorp Mjóifjörður (The Slim Fjord), 18 kms long and approximately 2 to 3 kilometers wide, lies in the East Region as part of the East Fjords. Quite remote, even according to Icelandic standards, the name Mjóifjörður is also used in reference to the tiny village Brekkuþorp in the middle of the fjord. The only way to get there is by car along a gravel road over the mountain pass Mjóafjarðarheiði, and visits are permitted during the summer. The road is always closed, as it is packed with snow and not maintained during winter, and local people travel by boat and attain their resources from Norðfjörður. Yet, this isolated and narrow fjord clamped between the high mountains of the Norðfjörður and Seyðisfjörður fjords is becoming increasingly popular with tourists—both Icelandic and foreign. The Klifbrekkufossar waterfall, the jewel in the crown, lies at the bottom of the fjord, offering you an incredible spectacle. East Region on map of Iceland The Mjóifjörður tiny village Brekkuþorp The village and Mjóifjörður has also seen its various versions of entrepreneurs and ventures in fishing, whaling, and fish processing. Today, there are merely around 30 inhabitants in Mjóifjörður, with most of them in Brekkuþorp—the smallest village in Iceland. Throughout the centuries, a majority lived on the few farms which offered fertile soil in the steep mountain hills. The village has also seen its various versions of entrepreneurs and ventures in fishing, whaling, and fish processing. Abundant fishing grounds have always been part of Mjóifjörður. Oddly, at one point, the tiny village and small fjord had the largest whaling station in the world. It was built around 1900 by the Norwegians, who hired 200 workers for the operation which led to a substantial increase in the population at the time. But the subsequent development to a town was rendered impossible due to the lack of lowland on both sides of the fjord. The fjord population has since fluctuated but was enough at times to support necessary services like schools and a church. Vilhjálmur Hjálmarsson (1914–2014), who was educated and maintained residence in the village all his life, was a member of parliament and minister of education for many years, during the time of which he lived in Reykjavík. On retiring, he moved back to the Brekka farm in Mjóifjörður. He was also a writer, self-educated and intelligent, and chronicled the history of the Mjóifjörður fjord that was published in three volumes. A quiet and beautiful place, ideal for relaxation Mjóifjörður gas station Mjóifjörður is a beautiful and tranquil place where you can easily spend a day unwinding from the stress of everyday life. When you are at the bottom of the fjord, the drive to Brekka is only about 10 kms. However, if you want to drive to one of the easternmost points of Iceland, you can continue through the village to about 30 kilometers, which is a highly nerve-racking drive to Dalatangi’s farm and lighthouse. But once you arrive, both the view and atmosphere is spectacular, offering you an experience never found elsewhere. Along the way from Klifbrekkufossar, you can make stops at the impressive Prestagil (The Priest’s Ravine), Hofsárgljúfur Canyon with its delightful rivers and waterfalls, and take a short hike into the Steinsnesdalur valley—all ideal places for pitstops and picnics. Here, you will find breathtaking cliffs—and owing to the fjord’s still weather, you can feast your eyes on the lush hills and vibrant flora lining its shores. Find your way to Mjóifjörður Brekkuþorp tiny village in Mjóifjörður fjord To arrive at Mjóifjörður, you must take a turn to the east from the Fagridalur valley on road nr. 1 between the Reyðarfjörður and Egilsstaðir villages, after which you must turn into road 953 to the Mjóifjörður fjord. It is a two-way road, thereby ensuring your ease in finding your way back. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Papey is an island off the coast in Iceland’s Eastern Region Papey is an island off the coast in Iceland’s Eastern Region. It is close to Djúpivogur village. All of 2 sq. km., it is one of a handful of small islands abutting the country’s coast, outside the Breiðafjörður bay on the west coast that has been inhabited. Papey is like a group of islands, as it comprises a few tiny islands, skerries, and ocean rocks scattered around the main island. It was considered a great place to live from the settlement times until the 20th century. The name is Celtic, derived from Papal. According to old Icelandic manuscripts from Ari the learned, Irish monks lived on the mainland in the East Region when settlers from Norway first came to Iceland around 875. The settlers were heathens and chased the Christian monks away. East Region on map of Iceland Some of the monks managed to escape to this tiny island where they lived out of sight of the settlers who lived on the mainland and soon forgot them. In history books, the settlement of the monks is often referred to as "some kind of settlement" before the "actual" settlement kicked in, for little is known about their arrival and how long they lived here. The settlement of the monks is also supported by archaeological evidence. A small island inhabited until 1966 Papey is a great place to see puffins The earliest records of people living in Papey were documented after the 1000 A.D. It was inhabited until the last full-time resident left around 1966 and even until the eighties. The island is now owned by descendants of the family who purchased it in 1900. In 1910, the wife died tragically during childbirth. A few years later, the husband married her sister, and they had a good life. Life was pretty good on the island despite it being no more than a rock in the ocean. No matter how hard life was on the mainland, the islanders of Papey always had enough to eat: lamb, birds, eggs, fish, seal, and later on, potatoes that they cultivated during summer months. They also had a water well on the island. Even the weather in Papey was a bit better and warmer compared to elsewhere in Iceland. For instance, the sheep could wander around and graze outside during the whole of winter. This is impossible almost everywhere else. The island is renowned for its birdlife and is an excellent place to see puffins, among other species, up close. Visiting the island is very nice! You can pay a visit to the houses and the smallest church in Iceland If you visit Papey, you will see a lot of interesting wildlife, many species of birds, and seals. A stroll around the small island is highly recommended. You can pay a visit to the houses and the smallest church in Iceland—it was built in 1904 and is just 16 sq mtrs. You will also get to see the family's house at the end of the inhabited part of the island and the ruins of older houses. From some of the hills, you will also see interesting views toward the fjords, mountains, and the spectacular coastline along the East Fjords. You will also get to see the family's house Unfortunately, there is only one way to visit Papey, which is by boat. In the months of June, July, and August, you can take a boat tour with a guide to Papey from Djúpivogur village. Currently, there are no scheduled tours, but information about private boat tours is available at the Langabúð tourist information center in Djúpivogur village. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Stuðlafoss is a beautiful waterfall in the eastern region of Iceland Admission to Stuðlafoss waterfall is free Visitors to Stuðlafoss are not required to make any payment for entry. Despite the limited capacity of the parking area, it generally accommodates the number of visitors adequately without reaching full capacity. Regrettably, restroom and sanitary facilities are not provided at this natural attraction. Stuðlafoss, or the Basalt Column Waterfall, is a beautiful waterfall in the eastern region of Iceland. Interestingly, it is similar to the famous Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell National Park, except the basalt stacks are in reverse. Stuðlafoss resembles steps, whereas the stacks in Svartifoss are on top of each other, leaning forward. But like Svartifoss, the volume of water is low and mostly from small streams originating from the morse above. The surrounding area and background of the waterfall are stunning. Interesting moss that lives and grows inside the waterfall can also be found at Stuðlafoss. The regularity and size of the basalt column, fascinating vegetation, and pile of rocks in the foreground are all factors that contribute to the uniqueness of this magnificent waterfall. East Region on map of Iceland Should this waterfall be on your list? Like Stuðlagil canyon, this is a place that you should visit between early June and October. If you are traveling along the Ring Road in Iceland or creating a list of things to do in the country, Stuðlafoss is definitely a place you should visit, especially if you plan to go to the Stuðlagil canyon . As I recommend in my article about Stuðlagil, you should hike along the east side of the Jökulá river to get to the Stuðlafoss waterfall. It is one of the hidden gems of the Icelandic landscape and was, for a long time, a secret place known only to the local outdoor enthusiasts. Although it is possible to see Stuðlafoss from Road 923 on the west side of the river Jökla, this natural wonder is best viewed up close, especially if you are a photographer. Like Stuðlagil canyon, this is a place that you should visit between early June and October. It is by no means enjoyable to visit in April or May—everything, including the path, is muddy, colorless, and difficult to traverse, which is not a very interesting experience. At that time, the melting water contributes to the flow at this time of year, causing the volume to increase substantially; sometimes, farmers at Klaustursel even have to deal with their reindeers falling down the waterfall after drowning in the river! In spring, Mother Nature isn’t always in her best dress and is a bit moody after the cold winter. How to get to Stuðlafoss The surrounding area and background of Stuðlafoss are stunning. After turning south on Ring Road 1, close to Skjöldólfsstaðir on Road 923, drive for about 14 kilometers to Klaustursel Farm. The journey is basically a 28-kilometer loop back and forth from the main road. Once you reach the farm, you will find a new bridge on the river Jökla. There is a parking lot to the west of the bridge; you can park here if you’d like to hike on the other side. After crossing the bridge to the east riverbank, hike down the path for about two kilometers to reach Stuðlafosss. You can also cross the bridge in your car and drive down the narrow dirt road to the waterfall, where the farmers have built a new parking lot. Either way, you can go a bit farther to see Stuðlagil, the magnificent basalt column canyon I introduced and named in 2016, which is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland