Flatey Island, Iceland

A flat, grassy island full of birdlife and old-world charm.

Overview

Flatey Island, Iceland Cruise Port

Flatey Island (meaning "Flat Island" in Icelandic) is a tiny, charming island nestled in the vast Breiðafjörður Bay, off the northwest coast of Iceland. This car-free island is a true step back in time, home to a small cluster of beautifully preserved 19th-century colorful wooden houses that were once part of a thriving trading and cultural center. Today, with only a handful of year-round residents (though the population swells in summer), Flatey offers an incredibly peaceful escape, renowned for its abundant birdlife, including puffins and Arctic terns, and its unique cultural heritage. It's a place where the pace of life slows, allowing visitors to connect with Iceland's history and pristine nature.

Flatey Island is primarily accessed by ferry from Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or Brjánslækur in the Westfjords. It is a frequent port of call for smaller expedition and luxury cruise lines exploring Iceland, offering a unique, intimate experience that larger ships cannot provide. Cruise ships typically anchor in Breiðafjörður Bay and tender passengers ashore to the island's small pier. A visit to Flatey Island allows cruise passengers to immerse themselves in a preserved slice of Icelandic history, observe diverse seabird colonies, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this remote island gem.

Top Things to Do in Flatey Island, Iceland

Explore the Historic Village

Wander through the well-preserved old village with its brightly painted 19th-century timber houses. Many of these buildings, including the old library (the oldest and smallest in Iceland) and the charming church with its unique interior murals by Baltasar Samper, offer a glimpse into the island's past as a cultural hub.

Tip: The island is small and completely walkable. Take your time to appreciate the architecture and the quiet atmosphere.

Go Birdwatching

Flatey is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during the summer breeding season. The island is home to over 30 species of birds, including large colonies of Atlantic puffins, Arctic terns (which can be very protective of their nests), fulmars, and kittiwakes.

Tip: Bring binoculars for best viewing. Be mindful of nesting birds, particularly the Arctic terns, which may dive-bomb if you get too close to their nests (follow marked paths).

Visit the Island's Church

Step inside the quaint Flatey Church, built in 1926. Its most striking feature is the colorful murals by the Spanish artist Baltasar Samper, depicting scenes of daily island life and folklore, a truly unexpected artistic treasure in such a remote location.

Tip: Check the opening hours upon arrival, as they can be limited outside of peak times.

Enjoy the Peaceful Scenery

Take a leisurely stroll along the island's only road, which stretches from the ferry terminal through the village. Enjoy the flat, green meadows, the surrounding sea, and the sense of profound peace and tranquility that pervades the island due to the absence of cars and the slow pace of life.

Tip: Find a quiet spot to simply sit, relax, and soak in the unique atmosphere and the sounds of the birds.

Learn About Local History at the Old Library

Pop into the old library building, which once housed the famous Flateyjarbók, one of Iceland's most important medieval manuscripts of sagas (though the original is now in Reykjavík, a replica may be on display). It offers insight into the island's significant cultural past.

Tip: This tiny building is a testament to Flatey's former importance as a center of learning.

Experience Local Hospitality at Hotel Flatey

If time allows, stop at Hotel Flatey, the island's only hotel and restaurant (open seasonally). It offers a chance to relax, enjoy refreshments, and perhaps try some local Icelandic cuisine in a beautifully restored historical building.

Tip: This is the main gathering spot and a good place to meet any of the island's few residents or other visitors.

Overview