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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

You can’t miss the relatively small, 12-meter-high, lighthouse called Streiti Streitishvarf is a tiny peninsula between the Berufjörður fjord and Breiðdalsvík bay in Eastern Iceland. It is a great pit stop, as it presents a breathtaking view toward its south and north of the East Fjords. Moreover, the seashore is endowed with fascinating rock formations and large rounded stones by the tideline. Amidst all of this, you can’t miss the relatively small, 12-meter-high, lighthouse called Streiti at the tip of the peninsula, which can be easily seen even from the main road. A parking lot is on offer just by the road for those who would not want to miss the excellent opportunity to take a short hike to admire the landscape around the lighthouse or to just rest after a tiring drive. East Region on map of Iceland To be sure, hiking by the shore offers an amazing view of the mountains, sea, and coastline. It is a place where even the locals prefer to come and hike. Down by the shore, there are several enticing photo opportunities with the rocks, cliffs, and mountains forming a most picturesque setting. It is undoubtedly an ideal stop to enjoy nature, view the rich birdlife in the vicinity of the cliffs, or just relax. A gentle giant lives in a rock These three giants are believed to be good-natured and on good terms with each other. Folklore has it that a giant resides in the rock near the road. He has two brothers; one lives on the Skrúður Island, north of Streitishvarf, and the other lives on Papey Island, near the coast, south of Streitishvarf. These three giants are believed to be good-natured and on good terms with each other. The story goes on to describe how they salute each other every morning when they wake after a good night’s sleep and how, once a year, around Christmas, they meet for a chat. It has been documented that, on at least one occasion, some decades or centuries ago, a tired traveler stopped outside the giant’s rock or home called Srkúðskambur, and sang a small verse that he had composed himself. As he finished the singing, the cliff opened, and a table with food and a bottle of wine was placed in front of him. Although this is a true story, we can’t, of course, assure today’s travelers a repeat of the giant’s response. However, it might be worth a try to sing a verse out loud once you are at the parking lot to see if the gentle giant can still be swayed enough to want to offer you a treat. Access is as easy as it is possible A walk to the lighthouse is a good way to spend your time, stretch your legs The parking lot is only a few meters from the main road, i.e., Ring Road No. 1 , and access to Streitishvarf is quite simple. It is basically a turn to the parking lot. Even if you stop here for a short while, a walk to the lighthouse is a good way to spend your time, stretch your legs, or take a break. If you are interested in photography or need a good background for your travel photography, the shoreline is spectacular. Besides, to reiterate for emphasis, it is a good spot to see the lines in the mountains and how they slide from the east to the inland toward the west. This is one of the fascinating geological phenomena in Eastern Iceland. It must have played out over millions of years. One can clearly see how a load of new lava has drawn the plate down along with the mountains. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Rjúkandi waterfall may seem like an ordinary tourist spot Although Rjúkandi is one of the few waterfalls you can see from the Ring Road in Iceland (road number 1), many visitors don’t usually stop by Rjúkandi. One reason is the fact that there are several “roadside” waterfalls streaming down the slopes along the way through the Jökuldalur valley in the Eastern Region between Egilsstaðir and Akureyri. Most of them look like interesting stops but often lack the prominent infrastructure that is required for a visit. Rjúkandi may seem like an ordinary tourist spot if you don’t take the time to explore it; moreover, it has a parking lot and a short path for viewing this beautiful attraction. It is also quite close to the road, which makes viewing it seem like a short hike. Rjúkandi is, therefore, a lovely waterfall and, definitely, a place to stop by. East Region on map of Iceland Take the short path to the Rjúkandi Waterfall The Rjúkandi river is one of the many spring-fed waterbodies that feeds the beautiful river in the canyon today Rjúkandi is part of a stunning landscape at the Jökuldalur valley in the Eastern Region of Iceland. The valley has other attractions that are yet to be discovered and places such as Stuðlafoss and Stuðlagil that were discovered only a few years ago in 2016. The waterfall is approximately 90 meters and is divided into two consecutive parts with a ledge between them. This makes it stunning, as you can climb up from the side to get a better view not only of the waterfall but also of the Jökuldalur valley. You can also spy the magnificent Jökulsá á Brú river meandering down the valley; it used to be a large glacial river gushing down the many small gorges hidden in the old Jökulsá á Brú long canyon. The Rjúkandi river is one of the many spring-fed waterbodies that feeds the beautiful river in the canyon today after the glacial part was moved to Fljótsdalur valley during a massive dam project at Kárahnúkar. On the Ring Road in Iceland just before you hit Skjödólfsstaðir You can stop by the parking lot and walk up to the waterfall, which only takes a few minutes. The Rjúkandi waterfall in the Eastern region of Iceland is less than an hour away from Egilsstaðir on the Ring Road (number 1). You can stop by the parking lot and walk up to the waterfall, which only takes a few minutes. The parking lot is located by the road just before you reach the farm, restaurant, and accommodation at Skjöldólfsstaðir. The viewing panel opposite the waterfall, toward the Jökuldalur valley, provides a breathtaking view. You can even climb up the slopes if you want to look at the upper and lower waterfalls. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Breiðholt district in Reykjavík capital of Iceland The district Breiðholt got its name from a farm once on Reykjavik's outskirts. While the district was in development, it was divided into three neighborhoods; Lower Breiðholt, Upper Breiðholt, and Seljahverfi. The district Breiðholt was originally a building development project developed under an agreement between the government and the labor movement to eliminate inadequate and hazardous housing. Until then, many of Reykjavik's poorer residents lived in old WW2 barracks and other temporary buildings from the war. Buildings in all the new neighborhoods popped up at a new and unrecognized speed in the seventies and the eighties, and Breiðholt soon grew to become the largest district in the Reykjavik municipal. Breiðholdt is a disstrict in Reykjavík city the capital of Iceland Breiðholt as a project was an effort to eliminate poor housing in other districts Breiðholt has many apartment buildings and condominiums Because the development was partly a social project, there were more social problems associated with the name Breiðholt at that time than Icelanders had known before. Partly because the city of Reykjavík built and owned many apartments in Breiðholt. Today this has changed, and Breiðholt is a nice neighborhood with good quality service. The district quickly became the most populated in Reykjavík, with more than twenty thousand residents. At its peak, more than twenty-five thousand people lived in Breiðholt. There are several schools, both primary and secondary schools, in the district. Schooling has always been a priority in Iceland since Icelanders have always valued education. A nice place to stay, although not in walking distance of the City Center in Reykjavík The church in Breiðholt Breiðholt has a delightful swimming pool, a large indoor Gym used for both handball and basketball, and an outdoor soccer field. Between Árbær and Breiðholt is the extraordinary salmon river Elliðaá and the beautiful valley Elliðarárdalur. Along the river is a pathway, highly popular among all residents of Reykjavík, and a public park. The district has good transportation and good access to a system of public transportation. The district also has a large commercial area Mjóddin with many stores and services. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

It is possible to see Goðafoss as a beautifully clear waterfall in the autumn and dirty glacial water during spring The beautiful waterfall Goðafoss is one of many along the river Skjálfandafljót. The main origin of the 180-meter-long river is at Vonarskarð (mountain pass of hope), deep in the Icelandic highland. It is one of the largest rivers in Iceland and is interesting due to the many factors that affect that waterfall’s volume and texture. Although its glacial origin is at Bárðabunga, an outlet glacier in Vatnajökull ice cap, and the tiny glacier Tungnafellsjökull north-west of Vatnajökull, the river picks up a lot of direct run-off and spring-fed rivers along the way to the shoreline. After collecting water in the highland, the river runs through an inhabitable area down the long Bárðardalur valley and continues to increase its volume via small rivers and creeks resulting in a similar proportion of murky glacial water, muddy direct run-off rivers, and clear spring-fed rivers in the stream when it arrives at the waterfall Goðafoss. These proportions of liquid ingredients vary depending on the season. Accordingly, it is possible to see Goðafoss as a beautifully clear waterfall in the autumn and loaded with forceful and dirty glacial water during spring. The primary source, though, is the Bárðabunga outlet glacier. Lurking beneath the 900-meter-thick ice is Iceland's largest, most powerful, and most dangerous volcano. Eventually, a large eruption in Bárðabunga could mean a catastrophic flow through the path of Skjálfandafljót and the end of Goðafoss as we know it today. In 2013 we came pretty close to such a scenario. Goðafoss the waterfall Goðafoss waterfall in winter The fall is 30 meters wide, 17 meters at its highest point and 9 meters at its lowest point. The rock formation along these 30 meters makes it one of the greatest natural wonders in Iceland as it divides the waterfall into many smaller and more fascinating falls. The slightly curved upper level of the waterfall only enhances its appeal and photogenic appearance. This is one reason why many visitors consider Goðafoss to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and a magnet for photographers. It also contributes to why many locals have labeled Goðafoss as ‘the Beauty' while dubbing neighboring Dettifoss ‘the Beast’. Nonetheless, both are great waterfalls along two fascinating rivers. In 2020, Goðafoss, and the area around the waterfall on both sides of the river, was defined as a place of conservation. The waterfall Goðafoss is part of our religious history Goðafoss waterfall in summer Goðafoss means the waterfall of the pagan gods and traces its name back to a significant year in Icelandic history: the year 1000. According to the book of Christianity written in the mid-13th century, it was the year the law-speaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, who lived on a nearby farm, declared at Alþingi assembly that Christianity would be the official religion in Iceland. When the chieftains at the assembly couldn't find a solution as to whether paganism should continue to be the official religion or the country should convert to Christianity, Þorgeir was given the task of making that decision. It was a huge undertaking for one man as the question had elevated the country close to the level of civil war in the decades prior. He crawled into his tent, buried himself beneath a stack of hides, and emerged with his decision three days later: the country and Icelanders would be Christian. As Þorgeir was a clever politician, he added that it would not be banned to discreetly practice paganism, a decision that contributed to a peaceful change of religion. It was, of course, a socio-economically sensible choice, as other countries at the time had a predilection towards Christianity. Þorgeir was a leader in his region, a pagan priest, and one of the most respected chieftains in the young country. He also held the highest, and only, official role in Iceland as a law-speaker. Upon returning home after his ruling, he threw all his statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall as a gesture of support towards his wise decision. From that moment, the waterfall was called Goðafoss. Photographing Goðafoss waterfall in winter Goðafoss is easily accessible The waterfall Goðafoss is easily accessible as it is just by the Ring Road (Road no. 1) in the northern region of Iceland. There are great paths on both the east and west sides of the waterfall, and it is equally as stunning in winter and summer. It is certainly worth spending at least one to two hours to admire it and even more if you are a serious photographer. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Aldeyjarfoss waterfall in north east region in Iceland Aldeyjarfoss is a 20-meter-high waterfall in the river Skjálfandafljót. Although 20 meters hardly sounds high and mighty, the waterfall enhances its appeal and makes up for its lack of stature with its impressive surroundings and flow of water. Located in a middle of a small but beautiful cliff of ancient rocks, it forms part of a powerful stream of glacial water forcing its way from deep in the Icelandic Highlands through a narrow path between stunning stacks of basalt columns. Standing close to the waterfall, it is easy to feel intimidated by its force, and the muddy color of the river can seem almost threatening. Map of North East region in Iceland The river carries tons of soil, ash, mud, and dirt from under the glacier Vatnajökull, determined to deliver it to the northern shore where, about 180 kilometers later, the river meets the open sea. Like all the mighty rivers in Iceland, Skjálfandafljót also gathers water from many other sources such as spring-fed creeks and direct runoff streams. Conducted by mother nature, this natural enterprise of beautiful basalt column cliffs and the mighty stream of dirt and water is a breathtaking combination, more closely resembling a striking beast sitting atop a throne of spectacular rocks than a muddy glacial river. The value of a natural wonder Aldeyjarfoss waterfall When you stand in front of a natural wonder like Aldeyjarfoss, you are most likely moved by its breathtaking beauty. It is, first and foremost, a stunning waterfall, but as such it can also be viewed as a form of power and energy. At the turn of the twentieth century, the optimism regarding enterprises creating wealth and new technology blinded many people, but a waterfall like Aldeyjarfoss, situated deep in the valley Bárðardalur, was of no use to anyone. On the other hand, it was a stream and fall of water that (in the terminology of that time) could produce 45 horsepower of electricity. For the people in the company Fossafélagið (The Waterfall Company), who purchased the waterfall in the second decade of the twentieth century, it was neither a beauty nor a beast, but a source of wealth floating from Vatnajökull glacier all the way to the shoreline towards prosperity. Had they succeeded in their venture, today Aldeyjarfoss would not be an attraction for tourists but hidden under a reservoir feeding a power plant that would have probably been named Aldeyjarvirkjun. Very photogenic but quite difficult to capture Aldeyjarfoss waterfall in Skjálfandafljót river Those of us who consider the waterfall to be a natural and photographic gem are glad that the company Fossafélagið was not successful, mainly because of the stunning basalt columns surrounding it. In addition, you can enjoy the so-called “skessukatlar", a formation that is also characteristic of the cliffs around the waterfall. Skessukatlar, which translates to “Giantess' Kettles”, are potholes in the surrounding walls formed by small stones caught in the whirlpools of the mighty stream. You rarely see a photo of the waterfall that is as stunning as actually standing in front of the beast; it is simply difficult to capture. Nevertheless, it is a significant natural wonder and a joy to visit and photograph. Access to Aldeyjarfoss waterfall The waterfall Aldeyjarfoss is not easy to visit as it is located at the end of a long valley called Bárðardalur in northern Iceland. On Ring Road no. 1 , by Goðafoss, another famous waterfall in the river Skjálfandafljót, you turn south on Road Nr. 842. The drive to Aldeyjarfoss is 40 kilometers, and at the end, you turn onto Road F26, Sprengisandsleið, and drive about 3 kilometers. The F Road is a mountain road accessible only by 4WD vehicles. The 3 kilometers are, on the other hand, relatively easy to drive for any car, but if you decide to go farther on F26, you need a 4WD. Then, after viewing the waterfall, you need to drive the same 40 kilometers back. If you are driving the Ring Road, you need to account for at least three hours to visit this magnificent natural wonder, and it is certainly worth it. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Dimmuborgir is a rough lava field displaying unusual rock formations Dimmuborgir (The Dark Castles) has been a popular place to visit among Icelanders for decades. It is one of the natural wonders that is almost mandatory to stop at when traveling on a family vacation in the northern part of Iceland. Even one of our first natural scientists, Eggert Ólafsson, visited Dimmuborgir in 1752. Located by the lake Mývatn in the north of Iceland, it is a rough lava field displaying unusual rock formations, jagged peaks, and mysterious lava caves resulting in a dramatic and unique landscape capable of conjuring fairytale images at every step. It is undoubtedly one of the most interesting destinations for families and kids to visit when on a family trip in Iceland. Map of north east region Iceland Imagination and the unknown In front of the church in Dimmuborgir Since the forties and the fifties, when people started visiting this mysterious lava field, it has been a breeding ground for fantastical folktales. It’s no wonder that local people have seized the opportunity to advertise Dimmuborgir as the home of the Icelandic Jólasveinar (Christmas Lads) and their infamous parents, Grýla the mother, and Leppalúði, the father. The couple are of a breed of Icelandic trolls that lived in caves not far from farms and tormented and bullied innocent people, constantly scaring them out of their wits. This particularly affected children, as Grýla was renowned for having a license to carry them off if they were disobedient. On the other hand, their thirteen sons are kindhearted and friendly and beloved for their generosity during Christmas. Each takes on a long hike in the cold days before Christmas to deliver small gifts to a shoe that children put in their windows. In contrast to their mother, they are admired by children. In Dimmuborgir, accompanied by your creativity and imagination, you are guaranteed a meeting with something otherworldly and strange. A gift to the people Dimmuborgir was formed when magma surfaced in an eruption about 2300 years ago In 1942, the nearby farms at Geiteyjarstönd and Kálfaströnd gave the land of Dimmuborgir to the Soil Conservation Service of Iceland, but in essence, it was a gift to the Icelandic people. It was, of course, much appreciated and is one of the reasons the development of an internal infrastructure inside the natural wonder has been possible after tourism flourished. One of the main reasons for the gift was the need to contain the sand within Dimmuborgir by planting trees. So, although you don’t see a lot of trees in Iceland, Dimmuborgir is packed with them. This, of course, led to a dispute about whether the area looks natural in an Icelandic context. I first came to Dimmuborgir in July of 1969 when I was 13, at the same time that Apollo 11 landed on the moon. I can see from the photos taken at the time how much the trees have grown and it doesn’t take a lot of imagination to wonder if the vegetation will suffocate the charm of Dimmuborgir in a few decades. The lava and the lake Dimmuborgir Dimmuborgir was formed when magma surfaced in an eruption about 2300 years ago. The lava streamed from a fissure and craters southeast of Dimmuborgir. You can visit the craters called Lúdentaborgir and Þrengslaborgir, which are part of the fascinating natural wonder that is Mývatn and its surroundings. You can also view both the craters and Dimmuborgir by hiking up to the large crater Hverfjall. At the time of the eruption, when Dimmuborgir was created, the glowing lava streams merged into a small lake. As the lava flowed across the wet ground, the wetland water boiled, with vapor rising through the lava, forming the lava pillars and creating this field of natural sculptures. Some of the pillars were several meters in diameter. As the lava continued to flow towards lower ground, the crust collapsed, leaving the hollow pillars of solidified lava standing. Remaining are the large hollow chamber-like structures formed around vapor bubbles; some of them are large enough to serve as houses or churches. Today the whole area is like a maze, and you must take care not to get lost. Fortunately, given the popularity and appeal of the area, trails have been designed and built throughout, with signs, maps, and information, so people can easily find their way back to the parking lot and service center. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

The unusual landscapes at Hljóðaklettar rocks Hljóðaklettar (Echo Rocks) in the northern region of Iceland is part of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon and Vatnajökull National Park. The rocks are a distinctive cluster of basalt column rock formations and are quite unique. Although mainly defined by the fascinating and unusual basalt column rocks, cliffs, and caves, Hljóðaklettar as a natural wonder includes a large area of interesting geology. It is part of an old crater that has been affected by many forces above and below the surface over hundreds of thousands of years. It is also a spooky area that gives you an immediate feeling of otherworldly adventure when you encounter the enigmatic-looking cliffs. As you enter the area by the cliffs, you can't avoid the feeling that you are not alone, somehow being watched or followed: a sense that is not necessarily uncomfortable but still lingers in the back of your mind. It is part of a group of places in Iceland that are specifically interesting for families and people traveling with children: a natural wonder of distinctive beauty and a place that feeds the imagination and feels like an adventure in an environment that could only be conceived by Mother Nature. Map of Iceland north east region Unusual and remarkable basalt columns Basalt column at Hljóðaklettar in Jökulsárgljúfur The columns are neither horizontal nor vertical, as you would expect in most basalt column areas, but rather lie at all angles. Accordingly, they deliver reverberating sounds with stunning clarity, as their name ‘Echo Rocks’ suggests. Apart from the rock formations in Hljóðaklettar, you will find caves and rock castles that all contribute to the mysterious atmosphere. You will also be amazed to see basalt columns in decorative patterns as well as basalt column rosettes. Lava rosettes are developed when the columns' lava stream cools from all sides simultaneously. They are pretty impressive and give the impression that this is the work of ‘huldufólk’ (the hidden people) in Iceland decorating their homes. You can walk around the cliffs for hours with a camera and take all kinds of exciting photos, even with your microlens. It is a beautiful place for photography in general. Basalt columns The church at Hljóðaklettar rocks Basalt columns have become popular among tourists in recent years. It is an unusual rock formation that is suspiciously regular, often resembling man-made structures, yet at the same time beautiful and decorative. The reason for this recent fascination and interest might be the massive exposure received by the beautiful basalt column cliffs at the popular destination of Reynisfjara or the Black Beach. It might also be because of the admired Stuðlagil canyon that has become one of the most popular destinations in Iceland. Hljóðaklettar has been visited by Icelanders for decades, but access was always a bit difficult. The area was remote, not easily reachable, and defined as part of the highland. That has all changed dramatically in recent years when an asphalt road was built leading to the parking lot in Vestural valley and a new parking lot and an observation platform built at Langavatnshöfði headland east of Hljóðaklettar. Learn about the discovery of Stuðlagil Canyon. The adventures of the two hiking paths Hiking in Hljóðaklettar is a great option If you are traveling on the Ring Road (Road no. 1) in Iceland coming from the east, you take a turn onto Road no. 862 soon after crossing the bridge on the river Jökjulsá á Fjöllum. Here you need to drive approximately 40 kilometers and turn east onto Road no. 888. You can follow that road to the end, about 2 kilometers, to Langavatnshöfði and walk from there to Hljóðaklettar and Rauðhólar. The view from the top of Langavatnshöfði is spectacular. You can also turn from Road no. 888 south onto Road no. 889 to the parking lot at Vesturdalur and take the traditional hiking trail. Vesturdalur (West Valley) has traditionally been the main entrance to Hljóðaklettar and is still the hiking trail I would recommend. Vesturdalur is a beautiful campsite with a parking lot and well-maintained hiking trails to other places in Jökulsárgljúfur. The track around Hljóðaklettar has good signs and information along the way. When hiking, you will see basalt column formations everywhere. You will see places like ‘the Church’, ‘the Troll’, and many other interesting points. On this trail, you can also hike to and around Rauðhólar. Camping in Vesturdalur for two to three days is an excellent option for photographers and anyone interested in interesting hiking tours. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Mývatn lake Mývatn is among the most popular destinations in Iceland. It is in the northeast region and is one of the most beautiful places you can visit for its fascinating landscape, including a lake, a crater, and a small hamlet or village—and its interesting lava formations. This is, indeed, an excellent place to find accommodations in Iceland. The Lake The lake in Mývatn is one of the country’s largest, which is approximately 37 square kilometers or 15 square miles. It was created from an eruption that happened about a thousand years ago at Þrengslaborgir, which east of Mývatn. The lake is relatively shallow, the deepest part being only 4.5 meters or 15 feet. For a long time, it has been one of the main tourist attractions among Icelanders—a place renowned for its landscape, beautiful small islands, extraordinary shoreline, exceptional flora, the notorious midge (a super annoying non-biting small fly), and abundant birdlife. The area has a dreamlike and mysterious quality, having been formed from a large basaltic lava eruption 2,300 years ago. Landforms from the volcanic eruption dominate the surrounding landscape like lava pillars and pseudo-craters, Dimmuborgir being the best known. Accordingly, hiking by the lake is a great option for a day activity. Map of Iceland north east region Like many places in Iceland, an active volcano as neighbor A beautiful lake and a great place to overnight The area surrounding the lake lies on the western border of the volcanic fissure zone, cutting across northeast Iceland and extending out of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. For instance, the Krafla, a volcanic caldera in the neighborhood, was still very active only a few decades ago; in fact, a series of eruptions created severe concerns for nine years between 1975 and 1984. Moreover, many islands on the lake have one or more craters, and most of the mountains in the vicinity were formed by eruptions under the ice during the Ice Age. Like many similar places in Iceland, it is a geological wonderland that presents fascinating stories to those who can read the landscape. Birdwatchers’ paradise Mývatn is an excellent place for birdwatching The lake in Mývatn and its surrounding wetlands have an exceptionally rich fauna of waterbirds. Indeed, it is a birdwatcher's paradise. Apart from thirteen types of ducks, the Slavonian grebe, red-necked phalarope, great northern diver, red-throated diver, and the whooper swan can also be found here. Occasionally, the gyrfalcon, the Icelandic falcon, can be observed here as well. The locals around the lake have a long tradition of harvesting duck eggs for domestic use. However, to ensure sustainability, the collection follows a strict, age-old rule of leaving at least four eggs in each nest for the duck to incubate. Residents very protective of nature Mývatn Nature Baths Maybe one of the most amazing aspects of the lake in the Mývatn area is how mindful the locals have always been of its delicate beauty. It is not the easiest place to cultivate and live on as the altitude is almost 300 meters—basically at the edge of an uninhabitable highland. The locals’ respect for the lake is apparent everywhere, and the inhabitants have fought serious battles to protect nature, including blowing up dams with dynamite, which is almost unheard of in the peaceful little Iceland. A Center for Activities in the Northeast You will find many interesting places at Mývatn Mývatn is one of the fascinating places to stay at if the intent is to explore the northeast and all its magnificent natural wonders. In addition to exploring the Dimmuborgir lava field, the Hverarönd geothermal area, and Hverfjall crater, waterfalls like Dettifoss, Goðafoss, and Aldeyjarfoss can also be visited as they are close by. Whale watching in Húsavík is also another activity to try out. Doing day tours into the mysterious highland and visiting Askja and Herðubreið is also a good choice. Additionally, the area around Reykjahlíð offers good campgrounds and good accommodations with fine restaurants and many exciting activities. These are good places to stop by when on a family vacation, to explore the nearby natural wonders and participate in some excellent hiking tours. Mývatn is part of my Ring Road drive around Iceland article. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Selfoss waterfall The Selfoss waterfall is located in the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon in the northern region of Iceland, only one kilometer south of the mighty waterfall Dettifoss . Besides both waterfalls, part of the many fascinating natural wonders in the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon is the river Jökulsá á fjöllum, translated as “the glacial river in the mountains,” the 200-kilometer or 124-mile river that feeds the waterfalls and originates in the large Vatnajökull ice cap. Although Selfoss has always stood in the shadow of Dettifoss, it is as beautiful a construction of nature and equally as interesting to visit. It is an interesting comparison to Dettifoss as both waterfalls always have the same volume of water, although the height of Selfoss is only 10 meters or 32 feet; its width, however, is more than that of Dettifoss. What is obviously interesting is the sense of gentleness of Selfoss alongside the might and power of Dettifoss. And of course, the visit is only a half hour hike from Dettifoss, and both waterfalls share the same parking lots on the east and west sides. If you are visiting Dettifoss, be sure not to miss this beautiful waterfall. Map of Iceland north east region Which Side Should You Visit? Hiking to Selfoss waterfall Unsurprisingly, the parking lots on both sides of the river make it common to ask which side is more captivating and which is more beautiful. This, of course, is a matter of individual taste. For Selfoss, just like Dettifoss and Hafragilsfoss, we recommend the east side of the waterfall because the volume of water and its form is more visibly appealing from that side; it is also much harder to see the whole waterfall on the west side. For photographers, though, the east side is, without a doubt, a much better side to visit. For Selfoss, particularly, there is more to work with in terms of foreground and backgrounds. Access to Selfoss Selfoss waterfall up close Selfoss is easy to find and visit, although a short walk is necessary from the parking lot to the waterfall. If you are travelling in the northern region in Iceland on the Ring Road Nr. 1, east of Mývant and driving to the east, we recommend that you turn on Road Nr. 864 Hólsfjallavegur. This is a turn after you pass the bridge on the river Jökulsá á Fjöllum. The Dettifossvegur Road Nr. 862 is on the west side, before you cross the bridge, and leads to the west side of the river Jökulsá á fjöllum, which is on the west side of Dettifoss and Selfoss waterfalls. Our recommendation is to view the waterfalls from the east side and include a visit to Hafragilsfoss to get the best view of the canyon Jökulsárgljúfur. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland