4 Best Sights in East Iceland and the Eastfjords, Iceland

The striking row of crimson-painted gables topped with green turf set this traditional dwelling apart from others in Iceland. It's now a museum offering unique insight into farming practices and domestic life from the beginning of the 18th century through the mid-20th century, and visitors can marvel at a collection of artifacts, including handmade chess pieces and baby booties knitted with human hair. Homebaked goodies and coffee are available at the on-site café. It's open daily from June to September, and by request at other times.

One of the perks of staying at Fosshotel Eastfjords is that you get free admission to Frakkar á Íslandsmiðum (aka the French Museum). The installations, which are based on the history of the French fishermen in Fáskrúðsfjörður, are located in the old Doctor’s House and French Hospital, which are now part of the hotel. The main attraction, a captivating replica of the sailors’ quarters, is located in the underground passage connecting the two buildings.

The sight of several restored army trucks parked within the vicinity of some old Nissen barracks might look out of place in the small town of Reyðarfjörður, but they serve as a reminder of Iceland’s history with the allied forces during the Second World War, when 4,000 soldiers descended on the small town, outnumbering locals by more than three to one. The vintage trucks and buildings are now part of Íslenska Stríðsárasafnið (War Museum), an exhibition featuring images and other memorabilia from the wartime period.