Eastern Region (Iceland) facts for kids
The Eastern Region (called Austurland in Icelandic) is a beautiful part of Iceland. It is located on the eastern side of the country. This area is also known as Austfirðir, which means "Eastfjords." It is famous for its stunning fjords and tall mountains. About 15,300 people lived here in 2007. The biggest town in the region is Egilsstaðir, which has about 2,300 residents. The oldest town is Djúpivogur.
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What is the Eastern Region?
The Eastern Region is one of the eight main regions of Iceland. It covers a large area of land. This region is known for its unique natural beauty. It has many long, narrow inlets of the sea, called fjords. These fjords are surrounded by steep mountains.
Nature and Landscapes
The landscape in the Eastfjords is very dramatic. You can find deep valleys and high peaks. There are also many waterfalls and clear rivers. The region is home to different types of wildlife. Reindeer can sometimes be seen roaming freely. This is one of the few places in Iceland where you might spot them. The coastline is rugged and beautiful. It offers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Glaciers and Highlands
Parts of the Eastern Region reach into the Icelandic highlands. These areas are often wild and untouched. They are covered in glaciers and volcanic landscapes. The Vatnajökull glacier, which is Europe's largest, is partly in this region. This makes the area very special for nature lovers.
Towns and Communities
Even though the region is large, it has a small population. Most people live in small fishing villages and towns along the coast. These communities are often very close-knit. They have a strong connection to the sea.
Egilsstaðir: The Main Town
Egilsstaðir is the largest town in the Eastern Region. It is often seen as the capital of the East. This town is not on the coast. Instead, it is located inland, near a large lake called Lagarfljót. Egilsstaðir is a hub for services and trade in the region. It has schools, shops, and a hospital. Many visitors use it as a base to explore the Eastfjords.
Djúpivogur: The Oldest Village
Djúpivogur is a charming fishing village. It is known as the oldest municipality in the region. This means it has been an organized community for a very long time. Djúpivogur has a rich history. It is a peaceful place with colorful houses. It is also famous for its outdoor art installations.
Economy and Life
The main ways people make a living in the Eastern Region are fishing and farming. Fishing has always been very important. The cold waters of the Atlantic provide many fish. Farming, especially sheep farming, is also common. In recent years, tourism has grown a lot. Many people visit to see the beautiful nature and experience the quiet life.
Tourism in the Eastfjords
Tourists come to the Eastern Region for many reasons. They enjoy hiking in the mountains and along the fjords. Boat tours are popular for exploring the coastline. People also visit to see the local culture and history. There are small museums and art galleries in some villages. The peaceful environment is a big draw for those wanting to escape busy city life.
History of the Region
The Eastern Region has a long history. It was one of the first parts of Iceland to be settled by Vikings. The isolated nature of the fjords meant that communities developed uniquely. Over centuries, people adapted to the challenging environment. They built strong traditions based on fishing and farming. The region has many old stories and legends.
