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travelfrosch Says: Along the hiking trail, you can see the remnants of an ancient farm. While no record exists of when this farm was actually active, a record from 1712 indicates the farm had been abandoned "a long time ago..." Obviously, erosion has taken its toll over the centuries, and...
travelfrosch Says: While this looks like the ruins of an old building, it is actually a natural formation. Borgarbrík, or "Castle Rock," is actually an example of a volcanic dike. An impressive group of basalt columns along with a spectacular backdrop.
travelfrosch Says: Hiking around the southern part of the island is a delight. There are three marked trails: green, yellow, and red. The "red" trail is the longest and most scenic. It will take you around the perimeter of the accessible part of the island (the northern part is privately owned...
Insideman Says: The best purpose, why to visit Hrisey is watching birds. Birds on this island are protected, so the are not afraid of people. You can see a moorfowl, whitch is popular like a Christmas dinner, a longbill or a sea swallow. And it is very easy to get to Hrisey, because ferry...
travelfrosch Says: The Hrísey Church is quite interesting to look at from the outside. Enjoy the wooden structure along with its striking backdrop. Unfortunately, the church was locked when we visited. Perhaps you'll have better luck and be able to view the interior. Given the fine weather, we...
Hrísey Campground: Scenic Campground
travelfrosch Says: This campground couldn't be in a more idyllic setting. If the office is closed, inquire at the tourist office or grocery store for details on staying here. Figure on roughly Kr 600 per tent per night. Be sure to bring cold weather gear. Brrrrrr!
Guesthouse Brekka: Hrísey's Guesthouse
travelfrosch Says: We didn't actually stay here, though we had lunch in the restaurant. It rents three double rooms and will work to find an "impromptu B&B" for you if all rooms are full. Figure on roughly Kr 2000 per person with shared facilities. I didn't ask, but sheets and breakfast...
Brekka: Good Restaurant with a View
travelfrosch Says: We decided to have a late lunch at Brekka since our guidebook rated it so highly. We were intrigued by the trout with garlic butter the book touted, but it unfortunately wasn't on the menu. The restaurant itself is clean and bright, with large picture windows overlooking the...
travelfrosch Says: The only way for a tourist to get to Hrísey is by ferry. The ferry "Sævar" departs from the village of Árskógssandur on the mainland regularly. Travel time is around 15 minutes.As of July 2008, departure times from Árskógssandur were 9:30, 11:30, and 13:30 -- then hourly...
travelfrosch Says: This has to rate as one of the most interesting taxis I've ever seen. I think it can be hired out either for a point-to-point journey or for a tour. There appear to be plenty of seats in the back. Inquire at the tourist office if you're interested.
travelfrosch Says: Hrísey has a full-service food store should you need provisions. Opening hours are a bit sporadic, especially off-season, so keep your eyes open to see when this store is open Any food, drink, or other groceries you require.
To Everything, Tern, Tern, Tern...
travelfrosch Says: One of the top draws of Hrísey is the amazing variety of bird life. In fact, the northern half of the island, known as Ystabæjarland, is a privately-owned bird sanctuary. While the local authorities may not be terribly strict in enforcing trespassing rules, there's one...
travelfrosch Says: We were unable to identify this unique bird, but we could identify its call. It sounded electronic, like something from a 1980's video game. As a result, we dubbed it "Electro-Bird." If anybody knows what type of bird this is, please let me know and I'll update this tip. :-)
travelfrosch Says: Another variety of sea bird you'll see is the Fulmar. We spotted a few on a nearby rock. Unfortunately, my camera is not suited for birdwatching, but I still got a couple of decent shots.Note: I'm not a birdwatcher. If I mis-identified this bird, please email me and I'll...
travelfrosch Says: On the island, you'll find a tremendous number of Eider Ducks. The males are quite distinctive, with black and white markings. Certainly a great find for bird watchers.
travelfrosch Says: Just above the ferry dock, we noticed a picnic table. While we didn't bring a picnic, we sat there for awhile and enjoyed the fjord panorama. This is certainly a perfect spot for a budget meal... if the weather's warm enough, that is...
Plan a Hrísey vacation with reviews, tips and photos posted by real travelers and Hrísey locals
On the island, you'll find a tremendous number of Eider Ducks. The males are quite distinctive, with black and white markings. Certainly a great find for bird...
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This island, located right in the middle of the gorgeous Eyjafjörður, has to rate as the favorite place we visited in Iceland. When the weather is bright and clear, you can enjoy the splendid...
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Mark and I made our way from Akureyri to this magnificent island for a day trip. We loved it so much, we came back for a second day trip the next day.
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If you are going to Iceland and would like to stay close to Akureyri in the north... then you have to visit Hrísey. Just go to their web and book one of the bauteful houses or rooms over there....
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