Hrísey
Hrísey is an island in Eyjafjörður fjord in North Iceland located out from the coast of the town Dalvík. The Island has a population of around 160 people, mainly fishermen and jobs related to tourism. It is only about 20 minutes with the ferry from Árskógssandur to Hrísey. During the summer it is possible to join a guided tour of the island sitting in a old trailer pulled by tractor.
Hrísey is a calm island in Eyjafjordur, just off the coast from Árskógssandur and close to Dalvík. It is small, easy to understand and best for travellers who want a quiet North Iceland island stop.
The island is especially useful for birdlife, short walks, fjord views and a slower day between Akureyri, Dalvík, whale watching and the wider North Iceland route.
Quick guide to Hrísey
| Coordinates | 65.9948,-18.3841 |
| Location | Eyjafjordur fjord in North Iceland, reached by ferry from Árskógssandur near Dalvík |
| Best for | Birdlife, quiet walks, fjord views, small-village atmosphere and Akureyri/Dalvík route planning |
| Nearby places | Dalvík, Akureyri, Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn |
| Typical visit time | A few hours to half a day; longer if you want all walking routes |
| Best season | Summer is strongest for birdlife and easy walking, but the island can be visited more quietly outside peak season |
| Good to know | Check ferry times before driving north. Respect bird nesting areas and local signs. |
What is Hrísey?
Hrísey is a small inhabited island in Eyjafjordur with village life, marked walking routes, bird nesting areas and wide views over one of North Iceland’s most scenic fjords.
Hrísey works best when it is planned as part of a practical island route, not as an isolated map pin.
Why visit Hrísey?
Hrísey is best when you want a quiet detour from the busier mainland route. It gives you island atmosphere without a complicated journey, and it pairs naturally with Dalvík whale watching or an Akureyri-based stay.
How to visit Hrísey
Drive or tour north to the Árskógssandur area, take the ferry across, then explore on foot. If you are building a fuller day, pair the island with whale watching from Árskógssandur or Dalvík.
Tours near Hrísey
Hrísey 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 natural mainland pairing for Hrísey, Grímsey and Eyjafjordur island planning.
A shorter sea-based activity for travellers staying around Dalvik and Akureyri.
A useful option near the Hrísey ferry harbour when the fjord is the focus.
A convenient Akureyri-based sea activity before or after island day plans.
Places near Hrísey
Use these nearby ideas to build Hrísey into a stronger route instead of treating it as a disconnected stop.
Towns and villages near Hrísey
These are the most practical bases and service stops for planning Hrísey.
Suggested itinerary ideas
Short Hrísey stop
Take the ferry, walk the village area and choose one marked route before returning to the mainland.
Hrísey and whale watching
Pair the island with whale watching from Árskógssandur or Dalvík whale watching.
Akureyri base day
Stay in Akureyri, add Hrísey for a softer island day, and keep Goðafoss or Mývatn for a separate route.
FAQ about Hrísey
Is Hrísey worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you want a quiet North Iceland island stop, birdlife, short walks and fjord views without a long offshore journey.
How do you get to Hrísey?
Hrísey is reached by ferry from Árskógssandur near Dalvík. Check ferry times before arranging the day.
What tours work well with Hrísey?
Hrísey is usually a self-guided island stop, but these activities pair well nearby:
- Whale Watching Eyjafjordur from Árskógssandur near the ferry area.
- Classic Whale Watching from Dalvík for a nearby harbour activity.
- Akureyri Classic Whale Watching if Akureyri is your base.
Is Hrísey good for birdwatching?
Yes. Hrísey is known for birdlife, especially in spring and summer. Follow local signs and avoid disturbing nesting areas.
How long do you need in Hrísey?
A few hours is enough for a first visit, but a half day gives more room for walking routes and a slower island pace.
Where should you stay for Hrísey?
Use Akureyri for the most services, or Dalvík/nearby villages for a quieter fjord base.
Can you combine Hrísey and Grímsey?
It is possible over a longer North Iceland stay, but do not force both islands into one rushed day because ferry timing matters.
What is near Hrísey?
Nearby mainland ideas include Dalvík, Akureyri, Goðafoss, Mývatn and Eyjafjordur whale watching.
Plan Hrísey with verified coordinates, nearby places, tour links and realistic timing.