Jökuldalur (The Glacial Valley) is the longest inhabited valleys of the country and is situated by the Ring Road, between Mývatn and Egilsstaðir. It, along with its side valley Hrafnkelsdalur, stretches deep into the eastern interior, and the distance between western- and easternmost farms in the valley is about 80 km.
The valley’s westernmost part is actually the Bruardalir area where the farm Laugarvellir stood at the turn of the 19th century. The western part of Jökuldalur is narrow, but it widens further east. One of the most voluminous glacial rivers of the country runs through the entire length of the valley and carries with it about 120 tons of silt per hour. A few bridges and cable cars across it have made communications easier during the centuries, but many people have drowned in it. The Jokuldalur area suffered from the ashes of the 1875 Askja eruption, and many families had to emigrate. Driving through the valley opens up views to many beautiful waterfalls on its eastern side. The old schoolhouse at Skjöldólfsstaðir is well worth a visit while going through this area, (www.facebook.com/pages/Skjöldólfsstaðir) and provides accommodation, interior and outdoor playground for children, a swimming pool with hot tubs, a campsite and a restaurant are to be found on the premises. We highly recommend anyone travellng around Iceland to Visit East Iceland!