Austurland translates to ‘Eastern Region’ in English. It is one of the largest regions in Iceland, with a total area of 22,721 square kilometers (8,773 square miles). The region encompasses all the eastern portion of Iceland and is characterized by its jagged coastline of fjords, often referred to as the Eastfjords, or Austfirdir in Icelandic.
The population is relatively low at 13,173 people in the region. Its overall population density is also relatively low at 0.6 people per square kilometer or two people per square mile. There are seven municipalities designated in Austurland. These include:
- Borgarfjarðarhreppur
- Breiðdalshreppur
- Djúpavogshreppur
- Fjarðabyggð
- Fljótsdalshreppur
- Seyðisfjarðarkaupstaður
- Vopnafjarðarhreppur
Where is Austurland Located?
Austurland is located far to the Eastern edge of iceland. It is bordered by the Northeast and Southern regions of Iceland. Its GPS coordinates are 65°17′N 14°23′W.
Is Austurland the Biggest Region of Iceland?
Austurland is the second-biggest region in Iceland. It is smaller than the Southern region, with about 24,000 square kilometers compared to 22,721 square kilometers (8,773 square miles).
What is the population of the Austurland Region in Iceland?
The population of Austurland is only 13,173 people. It is a region characterized by its small scattered villages throughout the entire region. Even the largest town of Egilsstadir only has a population of 2,300 people. Its population density is only 0.6 people per square kilometer.
Which cities are in the Austurland Region of Iceland?
There are no major cities in Iceland in Austurland. Eglisstadir is the largest concentration of people at 2,300. The oldest municipality in the region is Djupivogur, established in 1589 but currently only has a population of about 470 people as of the 2015 census.
What to do in Austurland Region?
For the most part, the natural features in the Eastern Region of Iceland are what draw people into it. This includes a variety of beautiful glaciers and waterfalls like Svartifoss, which are surrounded by basalt columns. One of the most well-known beaches in Iceland is also located there, called Diamon Beach, because of the black sand covered in Iceberg chunks.
What are the Hotels in Austurland?
Many hotels are located around the scenic coastline and the Ring Road that runs through the Eastern region. These include the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Guesthouse Elinar Helgu, and Blabjorg Guesthouse, to name a few.
What are the Glaciers in Austurland?
Some of the most significant and beautiful glaciers in Iceland are located in Austurland. These include Vatnajokull, Hoffellsjokull, Flaajokull, and Falljokull.
What are the Mountains in Austurland?
There are many mountains scattered throughout Austurland. These include Vestrahorn, Bulandstindur, Hvannadalshnukur, and Snaefell.
