Hrísey

Hrísey is Iceland's second-largest island, nestled in the heart of Eyjafjörður Fjord, just a short ferry ride north of Akureyri. This quiet fishing village draws visitors with its willow grouse colonies, coastal trails, and a rural atmosphere that mass tourism has yet to touch. It's a slow pause in an often-packed Icelandic itinerary.

Practical Information at a Glance

• Access: Ferry from Árskógssandur (village north of Akureyri on Route 82) — approximately 15 minutes crossing.
• Entry: The island is freely accessible; ferry passage is paid.
• Recommended duration: Half day to full day, depending on hiking interest.
• What to wear: Waterproof clothing and hiking boots recommended, even in summer.

What to See

The island stretches roughly 7 km long. The main village clusters a handful of colorful houses, a church, and a small harbor. Marked trails follow the cliffs and cross the interior moorland. The avian wildlife is the real spectacle: willow grouse (rjúpa) are so unbothered by visitors that they sometimes cross village streets. In summer, eiders and other seabirds nest along the coasts.

History and Context

Hrísey long thrived on fishing and herring processing, an industry that shaped the entire economy of Eyjafjörður Fjord throughout the twentieth century. Population declined with fishing mechanization. Today, a few hundred year-round residents call the island home, and it cautiously invests in gentle tourism to sustain its services.

Highlights of Your Visit

Willow Grouse

These birds, an unofficial emblem of the island, wander freely through the village and along trails. They don't flee at visitors' approach, making them an exceptional photography subject, especially in winter when their plumage turns entirely white.

Coastal Trails

Several marked routes allow partial or complete circuits around the island. Views over Eyjafjörður Fjord and surrounding mountains are sweeping and constant. Terrain is accessible with no significant elevation gain.

The Village and Harbor

The fishing harbor remains active on a small scale. Strolling among painted wooden houses and watching boats presents an authentic image of Icelandic island life, far removed from tourist reconstructions.

Photography Tips

Low-angle morning and late-afternoon light enhances the colors of houses and moorland texture. For grouse, approach slowly and stay at ground level — they tolerate closeness but react to sudden movements. In winter, the contrast between white bird plumage and snow requires slight overexposure.

Location and Access

The embarkation point is Árskógssandur on Route 82 north of Akureyri. From Akureyri, allow approximately 35 to 40 minutes driving. The ferry operates year-round with reduced frequency in off-season. There are no cars on the island: travel is by foot or bicycle. Accessibility for those with mobility limitations is restricted on natural trails, but the village is relatively flat.

Nearby Attractions

• Akureyri — Iceland's northern capital, the logical starting point with its museums and urban amenities.
• Lake Mývatn — roughly an hour southeast, volcanic landscapes and geothermal springs.
• Goðafoss — historic waterfall on the route between Akureyri and Mývatn.
• Dalvík — fishing village on the same fjord, departure point for whale watching.