Guide de Voyage : Skrudur Island

Skrudur is an island off the coast of Faskrudsfjordur in East Iceland, with rich birdlife, intriguing folklore, and a unique cave.

Although the island can be a great spot for birdwatching, access to Skrudur is limited and extremely challenging. The island and its surrounding areas are a protected nature reserve. Traveling and entrance to the area requires permission and planning from the authorities. 

Fortunately, the island is visible from the mouth of the Faskrudsfjordur fjord by boat or binoculars. You can head to the coastal village by renting a car or booking self-drive tours in Iceland. For example, you can include a quick stop in Faskrudsfjordur on this 10-day road trip.

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Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Christian Bickel fingalo. No edits made.

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What is the Skrudur Island?

Skrudur, written as Skrúður in Icelandic, is the biggest of the three small islands on the eastern coast of Faskrudsfjordur. It rises to a height of 525 feet (160 meters) above sea level and stretches to a length of 1,936 feet (590 meters).

The other islands in the area are called Aedasker and Andey.

In 1995, the Icelandic government designated the Skrudur island as a protected nature reserve. This means that the island and its immediate vicinity of around 1,640 feet (500 meters) are off-limits to certain human activities and interventions.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Christian Bickel fingalo. No edits made.

Physical Features of Skrudur

The Skrudur island is characterized by its rugged coastal cliffs and rocky terrain, which rise steeply from the North Atlantic Ocean. These cliffs are composed of basalt rock formations and sedimentary rocks.

Along the coastline of Skrudur are sea caves, arches, and stacks carved by the erosive forces of wind and waves. These geological formations add to the island's scenic beauty and provide habitat for nesting seabirds during the breeding season.

In addition to its coastal cliffs, the island features slopes covered in grasses, mosses, and other vegetation. Despite its relatively small size, the island supports a diverse ecosystem, with plant life clinging to its rocky terrain. Even in winter, certain parts of its vegetation cover remain green.

One of its most recognizable features is a large cave called Skrudshellir. It's considered one of the largest caves in East Iceland. In the olden days, sailors and fishermen would rest inside the cave or take shelter during bad weather conditions.

Birdlife in the Skrudur Island

One reason Skrudur island became a protected area is its rich birdlife. The island's coastal cliffs and caves provide nesting sites and shelter for various seabird species, which flock to Skrudur during the breeding season to raise their young.

One of the most iconic seabirds found on Skrudur is the Atlantic puffin, known for its colorful beak and distinctive waddling walk. Puffins burrow into the island's cliffs to create nesting burrows or lay eggs in the caves. 

In addition to puffins, Skrudur is home to other seabirds, such as Northern gannets, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes. In summer, large colonies of these avian species nest and raise their chicks on the island's cliffs. 

Folklore of the Skrudur Island

Like many of Iceland's natural landscapes, Skrudur is steeped in tales of mythical beings. 

One prominent figure in these folktales is the giant dwelling on the island, who is said to have abducted the daughter of a local pastor to be his wife. This giant, Skrudsbondinn, is said to have lived on the island for centuries, stealing sheep from farmers and saving people from sea accidents.

According to legend, Skrudsbondinn was one of three giant brothers who inhabited East Iceland. The other two brothers resided on different islands in the region. These giants were said to communicate with each other across the landscape and were feared by sailors who visited the area.

How to Get to Faskrudsfjordur Village

Traveling to Faskrudsfjordur village and Skrudur island offers an adventure through the stunning landscapes of East Iceland. The most common way is to travel by an affordable rental car and drive along the Ring Road (Route 1) from Reykjavik, covering 407 miles (655 kilometers).

Alternatively, you can have a faster journey by taking a domestic flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir, which takes an hour. From Egilsstadir, driving to Faskrudsfjordur village takes less than an hour.

Although no particular tours can take you to the island itself, you can drive near the mouth of the Faskrudsfjordur fjord to catch a glimpse of Skrudur from a distance. Road 955 in town will take you there.

What Makes Skrudur Island Special?

Skrudur island's unique blend of folklore and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination despite its challenging accessibility. 

Legends of giants and mythical beings add intrigue to its landscape, while dramatic coastal cliffs offer breathtaking views away from tourist crowds.

In addition, the island's remote location in Faskrudsfjordur makes it a haven for wildlife. Colonies of seabirds like puffins and razorbills continue to thrive on its terrain.

More Attractions in East Iceland Near Skrudur

While in the Eastfjords of Iceland, take the opportunity to see more destinations to elevate your holiday.

Near the town center of Faskrudsfjordur village is the French Museum and Hospital. This museum and former hospital complex offer insight into the fascinating history of French fishermen who settled in the town in the late 19th century. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits, which include artifacts, photographs, and personal stories. The building also houses the Fosshotel Eastfjords.

Another cultural attraction in the region is Petra's Stone and Mineral Collection in Stodvarfjordur. This unique museum, 17 miles (27 kilometers), boasts a vast collection of minerals, rocks, and fossils gathered from the surrounding landscape.

Finally, if you're looking for great accommodations in East Iceland or a wide selection of restaurants, head over to Egilsstadir. This town is the unofficial capital of the region. Here, you can explore local attractions such as the East Iceland Heritage Museum, take a scenic drive along the Lagarfljot lake, or embark on outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness.