Rank
2nd Largest
Hrísey is Iceland's second-largest offshore island, approximately 7.5 km long and 2.5 km wide.
Hrísey Island Iceland: Pearl of Eyjafjörður & Visitor Guide
Iceland's second-largest island and the "Pearl of Eyjafjörður" — a peaceful haven of green meadows, ptarmigan habitat, and quiet village life in the heart of north Iceland's longest fjord.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
Eyjafjörður, North Iceland
A 15-minute ferry ride from Árskógssandur near Akureyri.
Hrísey sits in the middle of Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord, about 35 km north of Akureyri. At roughly 7.5 km long and 2.5 km wide, it is Iceland's second-largest offshore island (after Heimaey). The small village of about 150 people is centred on a pretty harbour, and the rest of the island is open grassland and low hills. Without foxes or mink, Hrísey has become one of Iceland's most important ptarmigan habitats, and the island is a delight for birdwatchers year-round.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.
Sources to check
Nearby
Akureyri
The Capital of the North is just 35 km south, making Hrísey an easy day trip.
Wildlife
Ptarmigan
One of Iceland's best habitats for the rock ptarmigan, the country's only native game bird.
What to Expect
Village Walk
Stroll through the compact village with its painted houses, small harbour, and the Hrísey Church. A tractor-pulled hay wagon tour circles the island in summer.
Ptarmigan Spotting
Without natural predators, ptarmigan thrive here. They are visible year-round but easiest to spot in winter when their white plumage contrasts with the snow.
Birdwatching
Besides ptarmigan, the island hosts Arctic terns, eider ducks, oystercatchers, and other species. The lack of predators makes it a birdwatcher's paradise.
Hiking Trails
Walking paths lead across the island's grassy hills with panoramic views of Eyjafjörður, the mountains on both shores, and the open ocean to the north.
Swimming Pool
The island's outdoor geothermal swimming pool is a wonderful spot to soak with views over the fjord — a quintessential Icelandic experience.
Quarantine History
Hrísey once served as a quarantine station for sick livestock, and later a herring processing centre. The old quarantine house has been restored.
Getting There
The car ferry to Hrísey departs from Árskógssandur, about 35 km north of Akureyri on Route 76. The crossing takes approximately 15 minutes. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, year-round, with extended schedules in summer. You can bring a car, but the island is small enough to explore on foot. From Akureyri, you can also pass through Árskógssandur on the way to the Beer Spa (Bjórböðin) on the same road.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August) offers the warmest weather, longest days, and most frequent ferry service. The tractor tour and most visitor services operate in summer. Spring and autumn are quieter but good for birdwatching. Winter visits are special for ptarmigan spotting and northern lights, though daylight is limited and some services may be closed.
Planning help
Hrísey FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.