Matkaopas: Bjarnarey Island

Bjarnarey is a small and uninhabited island located off the South Coast of Iceland in the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar). It is the fourth-largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.

Like the other islands in the Westman Islands, Bjarnarey was created through underwater volcanic activity millions of years ago. It has typical volcanic features such as rugged terrain, cliffs, and rocky shorelines.

It's worth noting that Bjarnarey is a secluded island that is not easily reachable for tourists. However, you can catch a glimpse of the island from Heimaey, the only habitated island of the archipelago, or by booking a boat tour around the Westman Islands.

Learn more about the archipelago by booking a tour of the Westman Islands or staying at local hotels and accommodations on Heimaey island.

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Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Travail personnel. No edits made.

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Where is Bjarnarey Island Located?

Bjarnarey Island is part of the Westman Islands, a group of 15 islands, 30 rocks, and skerries off the South Coast of Iceland. The Westman Islands are a stunning archipelago formed by underwater volcanic activity, known for its striking landscapes, rugged cliffs, and grassy hills. 

The Vestmannaeyjar archipelago is known for its stunning natural scenery, intriguing history, the Eldfell volcano, and Earth's most significant puffin nesting population. This island chain is a bird sanctuary, home to the world's largest puffin colony and other seabird species living on its rugged cliffs.

Among the islands in the archipelago is Heimaey, which translates to "Home Island." It's the largest and only inhabited island in the Westman Islands. In 1973, the island gained global attention due to a volcanic eruption in the vicinity that re-shaped the island, leaving deep marks on the town. Despite this, Heimaey remains a vibrant center of history and wildlife. 

Why Visit the Bjarnarey Island?

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by PeterRYV. No edits made.

While reaching Bjarnarey Island is complicated to get to due to its location and scarcity of available transport, the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, in general, is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and bird enthusiasts. The Westman Islands are known for having the world's largest puffin nesting population, but Bjarnarey also boasts one of the larger puffin colonies in the archipelago.

This makes it an excellent place for birdwatching and getting up close with different bird species, but this is mostly possbile with boat tours.

At the heart of Bjarnarey Island is Bunki, an old crater that reaches an altitude of 164 meters. This island, rich with vegetation, has served as an excellent grazing area for sheep and a hub for hay production in the past. 

How to get to the Bjarnarey Island

It's important to note that Bjarnarey is not easily accessible, but it's visible from Heimaey. You could also get a glimpse of Bjarnarey if you book a boat tour in the Westman Islands.

Travelers can reach the Westman Islands via Landeyjahofn port in summer or Thorlakshofn in winter. Visitors with car rentals have more flexibility to explore both on the way and on the islands.

This is the most common way to reach the Westman Islands is by booking the Herjolfur ferry that departs from the Landeyjahofn harbor. It usually takes around two hours to drive from Reykjavik to Landeyjahofn harbor and then another 35 minutes to reach the main island of Heimaey.

There's also a bus that departs from the Mjodd station, located just outside Reykjavik and heads to Landeyjahofn. During the summer, flying is also an option from Reykjavik domestic airport, with flights taking approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Since there's no available public transport to Bjarnarey, you'll have to arrange for private transport once you arrive in Heimaey, or you can opt to bring your rental car with you on the Herjolfur ferry. The only way to visit Bjarnarey is by chartering a boat, which can be arranged through local tour operators or individuals offering boat tours. It is essential to plan ahead, especially during the tourist season, as availability may be limited.

Surrounding and Nearby Areas

Because of its formation, the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago offers numerous attractions and sites that showcase its stunning landscapes, coastal views, rich history, and geological heritage. Here are some of the things to do and places to visit in the Westman Islands:

Photo from Eldheimar Museum

Eldheimar Museum -  The Eldheimar Museum is a tribute to the 1973 Eldfell volcano eruption, which is one of Iceland's most significant natural disasters in recent history. The museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the eruption, view artifacts, and explore the partially excavated remains of homes buried under the lava and ash. Through engaging audio-visual exhibits, the museum gives visitors a glimpse of Heimaey before, during, and after the eruption. It is often referred to as the "Pompeii of the North."

Photo by SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary

SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary - The SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary is a groundbreaking project run by the Sea Life Trust. It offers a natural sea inlet in Klettsvik Bay, providing a new home for two beluga whales, Little White, and Little Grey, who were relocated from a Shanghai marine park. The sanctuary is open seasonally from April through October, with every visit funding the care for the belugas and puffin rehabilitation. The bay is enclosed by netting to ensure the whales' safety, and a specially built pontoon and care pool area allows the expert care team to look after the whales.

Photo by Herjolfstown Viking Wax Museum

Herjolfstown Museum - Herjolfstown, also known as the Viking Wax Museum, is a unique cultural attraction in Iceland's Westman Islands. It houses a replica of one of the first stone houses, offering insight into 900-year household life. The museum pays tribute to the island's Viking history, focusing on Herjolfur Bardarson and his family. Exhibits are based on extensive research, archaeological findings, and artistic imagination, providing a genuine understanding of Viking culture and society.

Stave Church - The Heimaey Stave Church, also known as the Stafkirkjan Church, was given as a gift to Iceland by Norway in 2000 and is an exclusive example of medieval Christian church architecture. The church is entirely made of wood, and it symbolizes the strong historical relationship between Norway and Iceland and the profound influence of Christianity on Icelandic culture. The church's unique shape, dark wooden exterior, and serene surroundings make it a delightful destination for visitors.

Aside from these, there are various attractions and sites on Heimaey Island, as it's the largest and only permanently inhabited island in the archipelago. To explore the island, you can rent a car and visit the local shops and attractions. You can also try out different cafes and restaurants. On Heimaey, you will be treated to various landscapes teeming with colorful birdlife. You can see the surrounding islands from elevated points and, on clear days, even the mainland coast. If you're up for a challenge, there are several hiking paths to choose from, catering to different difficulty levels.

Exploring the Westman Islands by boat is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of this majestic archipelago. You can discover sea caves, remote beaches, stunning cliffs, and everything else the island offers.