Drangey
Drangey is an island that rises up from the ocean and towers majestically in the middle of Skagafjordur in north Iceland. The island is mostly made of volcanic tuff from a seven hundred years old volcano. The cliffs of the island are very steep, about 180 meters high and it is only possible to climb up to the top at "the bay of Uppganga" or the Climbing Up Bay. Even though the route up to the top is very steep most visitors should be able to climb up there as there are ropes and chains to help. The island is visible from the road and from Reykir there is a great view over Drangey.
Drangey rises steeply from Skagafjordur and feels different from the gentler islands: dramatic cliffs, seabirds, saga stories and a seasonal boat-access experience.
It is best for travellers who want a North Iceland island with texture: a little adventure, strong views, birdlife and the Grettir story tied to the landscape.
Quick guide to Drangey
| Coordinates | 65.9491,-19.6855 |
| Location | Skagafjordur in North Iceland, visible from the mainland and reached by seasonal boat trips |
| Best for | Seabirds, steep cliffs, Grettir Saga, summer boat trips, Skagafjordur scenery and active North Iceland routes |
| Nearby places | Grettislaug, Sauðárkrókur, Varmahlíð and Akureyri |
| Typical visit time | Half day for a boat trip; shorter if viewing from the mainland only |
| Best season | Summer for boat trips and birdlife |
| Good to know | The island is steep and exposed. Use local guided boat access and follow safety instructions. |
What is Drangey?
Drangey is a steep island in Skagafjordur, known for its cliffs, seabirds and links to Grettir the Strong from the Icelandic sagas. The island is uninhabited, but it has long been connected with bird hunting, stories and the dramatic coastline of North Iceland.
Why visit Drangey?
Visit Drangey if you want an island that feels wild and story-rich. It is not just a photo stop: the appeal is the boat ride, cliff access, birdlife, views across Skagafjordur and the sense of saga history.
How to visit Drangey
Drangey is normally visited by seasonal boat trip from the Skagafjordur area. If conditions or timing do not work, view the island from the mainland and build the day around Grettislaug, Sauðárkrókur or Skagafjordur activities.
Tours near Drangey
Drangey pairs best with tours that match the real access pattern: ferry routes, local island activities, nearby sea-life tours or wider regional day tours.
A flexible North Iceland transfer-style day when Skagafjordur and Drangey need custom timing.
Best for travellers who want a nature-led North Iceland day beyond the standard route.
An active Skagafjordur-area add-on for travellers staying near Drangey and Varmahlid.
A softer Skagafjordur activity that can pair with Drangey viewpoints or a summer boat trip.
Places near Drangey
Use these nearby ideas to build Drangey into a stronger route instead of treating it as a disconnected stop.
Towns and villages near Drangey
These are the most practical bases and service stops for planning Drangey.
Suggested itinerary ideas
Drangey boat day
Use a local seasonal boat trip, allow time for the climb and views, and avoid adding too many distant stops on the same day.
Skagafjordur active day
Pair Drangey viewpoints with family rafting or extreme rafting if you are staying in the region.
Longer North Iceland route
Use Akureyri as the larger base, but keep Drangey as a focused Skagafjordur day rather than a quick detour.
FAQ about Drangey
Is Drangey worth visiting?
Yes, if you like seabirds, saga history, cliffs and guided boat-access places. It is best in summer.
How do you get to Drangey?
Drangey is reached by seasonal local boat trips from the Skagafjordur area. Check timing and conditions before planning the day around it.
What tours work well near Drangey?
Drangey itself depends on local boat access, but these regional activities can fit around a Skagafjordur stay:
- Private Nature Lovers Tour from Akureyri for flexible North Iceland routing.
- Family Rafting for an easier Skagafjordur adventure.
- Extreme Rafting for a more active day nearby.
What is Drangey known for?
Drangey is known for steep cliffs, seabirds, bird-hunting history and the Grettir Saga story.
Can everyone climb Drangey?
No. The route is steep and exposed, with local safety arrangements. It is not suitable for everyone or every weather condition.
Where should you stay for Drangey?
Sauðárkrókur and the Skagafjordur area are most practical. Akureyri gives more services but is farther away.
Is Drangey good for puffins?
Yes, Drangey has seabird life including puffins in season, but viewing depends on timing and access.
What should you combine with Drangey?
Combine it with Grettislaug, Skagafjordur towns, rafting, horse-country scenery or a slower North Iceland route.
Sunset at Drangey island in north Iceland
Hiking up Drangey island in north Iceland
Drangey island and kerling rock
The view from Drangey island over Skagadjordur in north Iceland