Hrísey

Hrísey sits in the middle of Eyjafjörður and is widely known as the 'Pearl of Eyjafjörður'. The inhabited island offers a quiet contrast to the busier towns around the fjord, with open meadows, coastal scenery and mountain views in almost every direction. Birdlife is one of Hrísey's defining features. The island supports many nesting species and is particularly rewarding for birdwatchers in spring and summer. A network of marked walking routes leads from the village into the surrounding countryside, making it easy to explore without a car. Along the way, visitors can find viewpoints, information about the island's natural history and traces of older local livelihoods. Most residents live in the village at the southern end of the island, where services include a swimming pool, shop, food options and accommodation. Hrísey is reached by a short ferry ride from Árskógssandur, making it practical as either a day trip or a slower overnight stop. Its combination of accessibility, birdlife and calm atmosphere makes it one of the easiest North Iceland islands to experience.