DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Flatey Island Biodiversity

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife
—°2
Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)

Weather…

Flatey is the largest island in the Breiðafjörður bay in western Iceland, serving as a critical hub for both biodiversity and national history. Measuring approximately two kilometers in length and one kilometer in width, its name reflects its characteristically flat terrain. The island is home to over 35 different bird species, including the rare red-necked phalarope and one of Iceland's largest colonies of black guillemots. Historically, Flatey was a major religious and cultural center, hosting an Augustinian monastery founded in the 12th century. It is also famous as the origin of the "Flateyjarbók," the most extensive medieval Icelandic manuscript, dating back to the 14th century. The modern village features well-preserved houses from the 19th century that maintain a historic atmosphere. Since motor vehicles are prohibited on the island during summer, the natural environment remains largely undisturbed. Flatey has been a protected nature reserve since 1975 to safeguard its sensitive avian nesting sites.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-1-1-11481097410
Rain mm116104100816551648411710399120

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
Flatey in Breiðafjörður is best for birdwatching from May to August, when migratory birds such as red-necked phalarope and redshank are present. The lush vegetation blooms from June to July, attracting many insects.
🌅
Best time of day
Early morning hours are quiet and offer the best chance to see shy species like the red-necked phalarope. Late afternoon the birds are actively foraging in the island's wetlands.
📜
Etiquette
Make sure to stay on paths to avoid trampling the sensitive meadow vegetation. Dogs are not allowed on the island as they might disturb ground-nesting birds.
🎒
What to bring
Binoculars with good close-focus ability are helpful for identifying small meadow and wading birds. Sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing are advisable as paths can be wet and muddy.
🧭
Getting there
Flatey is reachable by ferry from Stykkishólmur, running several times a day especially in summer. The crossing takes about an hour and already gives great views of Breiðafjörður.
🦌
What to expect
The birdlife on Flatey is diverse but the individual numbers are smaller than at the big colonies. Take time to explore slowly and enjoy the island's tranquility away from tourist crowds.

Geography

Coordinates
65.37500, -22.91670

Facts

  • Largest island in the Breiðafjörður archipelago.
  • Source of the medieval Flateyjarbók manuscript.
  • Protected as a nature reserve since 1975.
  • Motor vehicles are prohibited during the summer season.
  • Hosts more than 35 different nesting bird species.
  • An Augustinian monastery was established here in 1172.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

StykkishólmurStykkishólmur35 km · SExplore →
ReykhólarReykhólar35 km · EExplore →
HelgafellHelgafell38 km · SExplore →
DynjandiDynjandi42 km · NExplore →
RauðasandurRauðasandur49 km · WExplore →
KirkjufellKirkjufell51 km · SExplore →
TálknafjörðurTálknafjörður53 km · NWExplore →
GrundarfjörðurGrundarfjörður53 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Flatey Island Biodiversity (2)

Klofningsviti📍 landmark

A small, distinctive lighthouse located on Flatey Island in the Breiðafjörður bay.

Bátur🏺 historical

Historical remains on Flatey Island that recall the area's maritime past.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Flatey Island located?
In Breiðafjörður, between the Snæfellsnes peninsula and the Westfjords.
Can you take cars to the island?
No, Flatey is largely car-free; cars usually stay on the ferry.
How do you reach Flatey?
By taking the Baldur ferry from Stykkishólmur or Brjánslækur.
Are there accommodation options?
Yes, there is a hotel and several guesthouses, mostly open in summer.
What is special about the village?
The colorful wooden houses are authentically restored and very easy on the eye.
Flatey Island Biodiversity: where is it located?
Flatey Island Biodiversity is located in Iceland.
Flatey Island Biodiversity: what is there to see?
Highlights include Klofningsviti, Bátur.
Flatey Island Biodiversity: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Flatey Island Biodiversity: why is it worth visiting?
Flatey is the largest island in the Breiðafjörður bay in western Iceland, serving as a critical hub for both biodiversity and national history.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Iceland →

Nearby cities

Reykjavík — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.
Kópavogur — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.
Hafnarfjörður — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.
Hafnarfjörður — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Hafnarfjörður
A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.
Keflavík — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Keflavík
Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.
Mosfellsbær — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.
Garðabær — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Garðabær
Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.
Selfoss — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Selfoss
Selfoss is the largest service center in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River.
Akranes — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Akranes
Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.
Seltjarnarnes — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík) — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.
Grindavík — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Grindavík
Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Ísafjörður — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Ísafjörður
Ísafjörður is the economic and cultural hub of the Westfjords region.
Ísafjörður — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Ísafjörður
The largest town in the Westfjords, known for its dramatic mountain setting and fishing heritage.
Hveragerði — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Hveragerði
Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.

History & landmarks

Reykjavík City Hall — Flatey Island Biodiversity (Iceland)
Reykjavík City Hall
Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.