Hrísey, Island in Eyjafjörður, Iceland.
Hrísey is an island set within Eyjafjörður fjord in northern Iceland and rises to a height of 110 meters (361 feet) above the sea. It is home to roughly 200 residents who have built a quiet community on this small piece of land surrounded by water.
Scandinavian entrepreneurs built a herring processing factory on the island during the 1800s, which expanded over several decades. When fishing declined sharply in the 1960s, this industrial period came to an end and transformed the island's way of life.
The museum housed in the former residence reveals how shark hunting shaped daily life for islanders in the past. Local traditions connected to this practice remain woven into community stories and daily routines.
The ferry Sævar departs from Árskógssandur on the mainland and takes around 15 minutes to reach the island on each crossing. Sailings happen regularly throughout the day, so you have flexibility in planning your visit and return.
The island supports the largest breeding ground for arctic terns in Europe and shelters over 40 different bird species. This abundance of birdlife makes it a special stop for anyone interested in observing seabirds in their natural habitat.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
