East Iceland Official Tourist Guide 2015 - 2016

BREIÐDALUR / Breiðdalsvík telling about the scientist George Walker and the area’s volcanic origins, as well as an exhibit on the Breiðdalur native Stefán Einarsson and his linguistic research into Icelandic.You will find good places for eating and accommodation, as well as arts and crafts for sale.

Nature highlights ⌘ Berufjarðarskarð - historical, well-marked trail where the mail used to be carried between Berufjörður and Breiðdalur. The route includes remnants of old dry-stone road structures as well as volcanic intrusions and imposing scenery. ⌘ Streitishvarf - Not only is the lighthouse on this peninsula worth a photo, but basaltic dykes make a further walk rewarding. Near the remains of half-ruined, dry-stone sheep fences, the marked hiking trail leads to a shoreline hollow where bright rhyolite and dark basalt mingle. ⌘ Meleyri, a black sandy beach, is great for strolling, bird-watching and building sandcastles.

It is also distinct from stony beaches to the east and north, which often have beautifully polished rocks. ⌘ Stafsheiði - scenic 4WD track, so rough and steep as to favour walking rather than driving. Well into the 20th century, this was the easiest, quickest way for most people in Breiðdalur to walk and ride towards the villages of Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður.

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