Austurland covers the eastern part of Iceland, with the fjord coast and the interior of the land covered with basalt mountains. It has a large section of the island's largest glacier, Vatnajökull.
Vatnajökull covers an area of 1380 square km. Its part lying in the eastern region is called Skaftafell. At the foot of the glacier there is a large tourist center, from which trips for hiking on the glacier set off. There is also the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall in the area, which flows down from basalt organs.
The eastern region is mountainous, full of canyons, of which Fjaðrárgljúfur and waterfalls are considered the most beautiful. Many kilometers of walking routes have been marked here, which are a great base for lovers of long hikes.
The region's curiosity is Helgustaðanáma, a former Icelandic spine mine, calcite, which was used by Vikings for navigation. The Jökulsárlón lagoon, created from the waters of the melting Vatnajökull glacier, is also a fascinating place.
