5 Best Sights in Mjóifjörður, East Iceland and the Eastfjords

One of the highlights of Mjóifjörður, Klifbrekkufossar waterfall impressively cascades 90 meters (295 feet) over a series of ledges into a delightful dell carpeted with a springy growth of blueberry scrub. Klifbrekkufossar is accessed just off the right-hand side of the main Mjóafjarðarvegur road (Route 953) descending into the fjord; it’s 16 km (10 miles) from the turn-off from the Ring Road. Keep in mind that Route 953 is closed in the winter, from October to late May (weather dependent).

One of several places in Iceland claiming to be the country's smallest village, Brekkuþorp (Hill Village) is home to only 14 year-round residents, and the road in and out of the fjord is closed during winter. Among the few amenities, the tiny settlement has a church as well as a summertime guesthouse, campsite, and café in the old school building. There’s also a small dock for boats. A boat service operates twice weekly trips from Brekkuþorp to Neskaupstaður in all seasons.

As far east as you can go in Iceland by car, Dalatangi is located at the very end of the road through Mjóifjörður with sensational views over the sea-licked cliffs out towards the North Atlantic. At Dalatangi there are two lighthouses, both some of the oldest in Iceland. The small, older building was constructed of basalt in 1895, while the larger, bright orange house, which is still in use, was built in 1908. The road is rough out here, so a vehicle with 4WD is recommended.

Stop at the bridge on the way to Dalatangi to view the terrific torrent of water known as the Heljarfoss waterfalls thundering down through the Hofsárgljúfur canyon. The stop is just under two miles past the Brekkuþorp village.

Look out for the landmark known as Prestagil (which translates as “the priests' ravine”) while descending the winding road into Mjóifjörður. According to an old folk tale, a gruesome ogress once lived here; she would lure men of the cloth into the ravine and make a meal of their holy flesh.