Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

The East Fjords are a study in contrasts. Rugged mountains, pristine valleys, forests and waterfalls share the peaceful setting with art institutes, and museums. This five-hour excursion gives you the opportunity to experience it all.

You'll board your motorcoach at the pier and travel to Fjardarheidi, the mountain pass between Seyðisfjörður and Egilsstadir, the largest town in east Iceland. The pass is a twisting, turning five-mile road that rises up 1,200 feet above sea level where you will have a view of Lake Lagarfljot. Gouged out over thousands of years by glaciers, it's believed that the lake is home to a mysterious sea creature similar to Scotland's Loch Ness.

Did you know that only a little over one percent of Iceland is forested? When the Vikings first arrived in the 9th century, 25% to 40% of the land was covered with forests and other types of vegetation. But that changed rapidly as settlers used the timber to build and heat their homes and to repair their ships. As the population grew, and the land was cleared for cultivation, even more trees disappeared. By the beginning of the 20th century, the land had been severely stripped.

In 1899, a law was enacted to protect Hallormsstadur Forest, the largest wooded area in the country. The reforestation efforts started in 1950 and have grown steadily since. Now, the forest covers over 5,600 acres and stretches eleven miles along Lake Lagarfljot.

Travel to Skridukalustur, the former home of Iceland's most prolific writer, Gunnar Gunnarsson. A former residence, the building is now a museum and an educational institute for artists, writers and scholars. Close to Skriduklaustur, the area also housed a monestary. From Skriðuklaustur we'll walk over to Snæfellsstofa, the visitor centre for the area covering the east side of Vatnajökull National Park. The visitor centre offers an interactive way to explore the nature of the area.

Your next destination is the church at Valthjofsstadur. The original parish church was built in 1190; the wooden carved door of the original church is now among the most treasured ancient items kept in the National Museum in Reykjavik. The church you'll see today was consecrated in 1966 but a baptismal font, dating back to the middle of the 18th century decorates the church.

At the end of the tour, you'll return to your ship along the same scenic route.