The Eastfjords of Iceland are, geographically, one of the oldest areas of the country, and the furthest from the capital. The mountains slump diagonally into the sea, creating a beautiful and distinctive landscape. Many of the winding fjords are cut off from Route One, which runs inland, but for the relatively few tourists who make it, they contain interesting little towns and tucked-away villages with many interesting and eccentric sights, stops, bars and shops.
Best Museum/GallerySkaftfellAusturvegur 42, Seyðisfjörður
Located in a charming old wooden house in the picturesque seaside town of Seyðisfjörður, the Skaftfell gallery is an outpost of culture in the far reaches of east Iceland. They have exhibitions, lectures and events in the airy gallery space, and host an artist residency. There’s also a café-bar in the basement where you can relax afterwards. Those interested in art and culture should also check out Slaughterhouse ust over the mountain in Egilsstaðir. |
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Runner-Up:Petra’s Stone CollectionFjarðarbraut 21, StöðvarfjörðurThe tiny town of Stöðvarfjörður was once a thriving fishing village, but has recently reinvented itself. The old fishing factory has been converted into an arts and culture space; down the street, Petra’s Stone Collection is a beautiful display of colourful rocks, gems and minerals collected locally by the late Ljósbjörg Petra María, and run by her family to this day.
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Runner-Up:Neskaupstaður MuseumEgilsbraut 2, NeskaupstaðurThe museum in the remote and peaceful town of Neskaupstaður is a three-for-one offering with something for everyone. On the ground floor there’s an art gallery showing the works of celebrated local painter, Tryggvi Ólafsson; on the second, there’s a maritime museum, and on the third, there’s a museum of natural history. |
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