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As the only permanently inhabited island in the wild and scenic bay of Breiðafjörður, Flatey retains its old-world charm and slow-moving pace of life.
Breiðafjörður sits between the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords. A visit here lets you explore the tiny port and village, see fulmars, puffins and Arctic terns, or simply enjoy the quiet way of life here, feast on fresh fish and unwind.
Today, Flatey is a tranquil and low-key spot even in mid-summer, but during the medieval era, it was one of Iceland’s most important cultural and artistic hubs. In 1172, a monastery was established on the island and although nothing remains, its reputation held and the island was a significant artistic hub until the 19th century. The monastery sat on the island’s highest point, a slight hill (Flatey means ‘flat island’ in Icelandic) behind the present-day church.
The island’s church dates from the early 20th century and is decorated inside with a series of artworks by Catalan painter Baltasar Samper. Behind the altar, Christ is depicted wearing a traditional Icelandic sweater, two sheep farmers at his knees. Behind the church is Iceland’s smallest and oldest library.
A path leads from the church down to the village’s main street, where a cluster of brightly painted wooden houses overlook a tiny port. In summer, you might be lucky enough to see sheep being taken by boat to the surrounding islands to graze. Apart from these low-key attractions, there is little to do on Flatey, and for most visitors that’s its greatest pleasure.
Wander along the coastal trail from the village port and you’ll arrive at the low Lundaberg cliffs, home to fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemots and playful puffins. Continue on, and you’ll reach the nature reserve on the eastern end of the island and then round the shore to the south coast. This part of the island is ruled by the Arctic tern and if you venture here you can expect to be occasionally bombarded by birds swooping down out of the sky.
At only 2 km (1.24 miles) long and 1 km (620 m) wide, it’s easy to walk everywhere on Flatey, easy to lose several hours simply admiring the views, and easy to dine like a king at the island’s only restaurant. A visit here offers insight into the lives and the determined mindset of those few people who choose to live here year-round.
Flatey can be accessed by ferry from Stykkishólmur either on a day trip or for an overnight stay. It’s a ten-minute walk down a track to the village from the port.
Best time to visit Flatey
Flatey is only accessible to visitors in the summer months from June to August; the island’s sole hotel is shut outside these months and in winter, the bleak weather and limited ferry service make it difficult to visit. Only a handful of residents remain on the island during the winter months.
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Places near Flatey
- Sn忙fellsnes Peninsula 33 miles away
- West Iceland 65 miles away
- 搁别测办箩补惫铆办 90 miles away
- 尝补苍驳箩枚办耻濒濒 93 miles away
- Blue Lagoon 105 miles away
- Southwest Iceland 108 miles away
- Golden Circle 112 miles away
- Troll Peninsula 126 miles away
- North Iceland 133 miles away
- Akureyri 140 miles away
- South Iceland 141 miles away
- Westman Islands 157 miles away
- South Coast 164 miles away
- Lake M媒vatn 171 miles away
- Vatnaj枚kull National Park 183 miles away
- Dettifoss 190 miles away
- 闯枚办耻濒蝉谩谤濒贸苍 219 miles away
- Eastfjords 246 miles away
Photos of Flatey
Accommodation choices for Flatey
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Flatey. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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H贸tel Flatey
Flatey