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Eastfjords Wilderness Areas adventures

Eastfjords Wilderness Areas Adventures

Eastfjords Wilderness Areas offer expansive, rugged landscapes along Iceland’s remote eastern coastline, prized for their dramatic fjords, rich wildlife, and pristine hiking routes.

425,000
Acres Protected
150
Miles of Trails
30,000
Annual Visitors
2005
Year Established

About Eastfjords Wilderness Areas

Eastfjords Wilderness Areas
 

The Eastfjords Wilderness Areas are located in the eastern region of Iceland, featuring a distinctive combination of steep fjords, jagged mountains, and sheltered coastal habitats. This remote wilderness preserves a vast range of natural environments, from rocky cliffs and pebbled beaches to alpine highlands and dense birch woodlands. The area experiences relatively mild coastal weather influenced by the North Atlantic Current, supporting diverse bird populations, including puffins and sea eagles, alongside marine mammals such as seals and whales. Human presence in the Eastfjords dates back centuries, with small fishing villages scattered along the fjord edges, creating a cultural backdrop to the wilderness experience. Outdoor recreation draws visitors seeking solitude and nature immersion, with hiking routes that range from day trips to multi-day treks over varied terrain. The rugged coastline offers opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing, while inland mountain trails reward hikers with panoramic vistas over the fjord landscapes. Notable landmarks include the sharp peaks of the Vatnsdala range, remote traditional farms, and the tranquil Seyðisfjörður village, known for its art scene and colorful wooden houses. The Eastfjords Wilderness Areas appeal to travelers looking to explore Iceland beyond the typical tourist routes and to experience its raw, untouched natural beauty in an environmentally sensitive setting.

Highlights

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Stórurð (The Giant Boulders) – a dramatic collection of moss-covered glacial boulders and emerald ponds

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Puffin colonies along Borgarfjörður Eystri cliffs, a prime birdwatching location

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Vatnsleysufjöll Mountain Ridge offering panoramic fjord views

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Remote backcountry huts providing shelter for multi-day hikers

Notable Natural Features

Stórurð (The Giant Boulders)

A striking natural area featuring enormous glacial boulders scattered across a mossy valley dotted with crystal-clear ponds, perfect for hiking and photography.

Borgarfjörður Eystri Puffin Cliffs

One of Iceland’s most accessible puffin colonies where visitors can observe these charismatic seabirds during the summer breeding season.

Seyðisfjörður Village

A quaint harbor town known for its vibrant cultural scene, traditional wooden architecture, and role as a gateway into the surrounding wilderness.