Northeastern Region (Iceland) facts for kids
The Northeastern Region (which is Norðurland eystra in Icelandic) is a large area located in the northern part of Iceland. It's one of the eight main regions that make up the country. In 2007, about 28,618 people lived here. The largest and most important town in this region is Akureyri, which is home to around 17,300 people.
Exploring the Northeastern Region
The Northeastern Region is known for its amazing natural beauty and interesting places. It has a mix of green valleys, tall mountains, and a long coastline. This region is a great place to explore Iceland's unique landscapes and wildlife.
Akureyri: The Capital of the North
Akureyri is often called the "Capital of North Iceland." It's a lively town with a lot to see and do. Even though it's far north, Akureyri has a surprisingly mild climate. This is thanks to its location in a sheltered fjord. The town is a center for culture, education, and trade in the region.
Fun Things to Do in Akureyri
- Akureyri Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden is one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. You can see many different plants, including some that grow in the Arctic.
- Akureyri Church: This iconic church stands high on a hill, offering great views of the town and the fjord.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: In winter, the Hlíðarfjall ski resort near Akureyri is very popular. It has excellent slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
- Swimming Pools: Akureyri has a fantastic outdoor swimming pool. It's heated with geothermal water, so it's warm and relaxing even on cold days.
Natural Wonders and Landscapes
The Northeastern Region is full of incredible natural sights. Many of Iceland's most famous waterfalls and geological formations are found here.
Dettifoss: Europe's Most Powerful Waterfall
Dettifoss is a massive waterfall often called the most powerful in Europe. It's located in the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon. The sheer force of the water crashing down is truly impressive. Nearby, you can also find other beautiful waterfalls like Selfoss and Hafragilsfoss.
Lake Mývatn: A Volcanic Wonderland
Lake Mývatn is a shallow lake known for its unique volcanic landscapes. The area around the lake has strange lava formations, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. It's also a very important place for birds, especially ducks. You can explore pseudocraters, which look like real craters but are formed differently.
Ásbyrgi Canyon: A Horseshoe-Shaped Wonder
Ásbyrgi is a huge, horseshoe-shaped canyon. It's part of the Vatnajökull National Park. According to an old Icelandic legend, the canyon was formed by the hoofprint of Odin's eight-legged horse, Sleipnir. Today, it's a peaceful place with lush forests and walking trails.
Wildlife in the Northeast
The region is home to various animals, especially birds. The Lake Mývatn area is a paradise for birdwatchers. You might also spot reindeer in the eastern parts of the region. The coastal areas are good for whale watching, with many different types of whales visiting the waters.
Economy and Life in the Region
The main industries in the Northeastern Region are fishing, farming, and tourism. Fishing has always been very important for the coastal towns. Farming is common in the fertile valleys. In recent years, tourism has grown a lot, as more people want to see Iceland's natural beauty.
Education and Culture
Akureyri is a key center for education. It has a university, the University of Akureyri. This helps to make the town a vibrant place for young people. The region also has many museums and art galleries that show off Icelandic culture and history.
More about Iceland
