Description
Summary
Description
Visit one of Iceland’s most fascinating islands in this exciting Boat Tour from Brjanslaekur to Flatey. This one-hour boat trip takes you to an attractive remote island in Breidafjordur bay, separating the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords in West Iceland.
The adventure begins at the Brjanslaekur port where you will ride the Ferry Baldur. This ferry will take you to Flatey island, about 14.3 miles (23 kilometers) from the port.
Brjanslaekur port is in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a beautiful region famous for its dramatic glacier and diverse attractions.
The Ferry Baldur has essential features to make your one-hour boat trip comfortable. For starters, there’s free Wi-Fi available on board. If you get hungry, you can go underneath Baldur’s vehicle deck and dine at the restaurant Bara.
The restaurant offers a variety of hot and cold meals, beverages, and sweets. If you’re taking your kids on the trip, a children’s corner is at the Baldur’s dining room. Here, they can play with different toys or watch cartoons on TV.
Upon arriving at Flatey island, you’ll be greeted by its natural beauty and calming environment. The name Flatey means “flat island” in English, pertaining to the island’s flat appearance. You’ll barely notice any hills when exploring the small island.
Interestingly, Flatey’s scarce population greatly contributes to its peaceful environment. Only six people live in the village, and it’s only during summer that the community comes to life. Summer means the arrival of tourists and local cottage owners.
Of the different attractions that draw people to Flatey, the old colorful houses lead the way. You’ll see well-preserved traditional homes that showcase the unique architectural style of Iceland's past.
The vibrant colors of these wooden houses add a delightful touch to Flatey island’s rustic atmosphere. As you explore the narrow paths, you'll discover a sense of timelessness, with no cars or paved roads in sight.
Most of these houses are owned by descendants or relatives of the island’s older inhabitants. Some of these structures serve as summerhouses and guesthouses.
You’ll also see a church where weddings and concerts are usually held. You’ll see beautiful paintings on the walls when you enter the church. Baltasar Samper, the father of renowned Icelandic director Baltasar Kormákur, made these paintings.
There’s also a schoolhouse built in 1929 and a lighthouse built in 1963, which stands at the island’s highest point at 72 feet (22 meters) above sea level.
Aside from the old houses, Flatey is also home to a diverse birdlife. You’ll see over 30 bird species during summer, the breeding season.
Some of the most common types of birds you’ll see include the black guillemots, the fulmar, and the arctic tern, to name a few. From May to September, you may also see atlantic puffins, making this a perfect stop for people who want to go puffin-watching in Iceland.
If you get hungry, you can drink coffee or try pastries at Hotel Flatey. Alternatively, you can dine at Bryggjubudin cafe.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of Iceland’s gems and book this ferry from Branslaekur to Flatey Island. Check availability now by choosing a date.
