Sugandisey Island is a small natural landmark that feels more like a scenic lookout than a traditional island. It's attached to the harbor town of Stykkisholmur in West Iceland and offers one of the most accessible panoramic spots in the region. Originally a separate basalt formation, the island was linked to the mainland in the late 1980s with a causeway built as part of the harbor expansion.
The island isn't just a convenient extension of the harbor. It became part of the town's identity when it was chosen as the new home for a small red lighthouse, which had been relocated from Grotta in Seltjarnarnes, near Reykjavik. The site combines easy access with rewarding views, making it a favorite among photographers, travelers, and locals out for a quick walk.
Today, Sugandisey Island serves both a functional and aesthetic role. Besides offering protection to the harbor from northern winds, it’s also a place where you can soak in ocean views without leaving town. It’s the kind of spot that doesn’t need hours to explore, but gives you lasting impressions after just a short visit.
Physical Features Of Sugandisey Island
Sugandisey is a low basalt island with a winding gravel path, wooden steps, and benches placed thoughtfully for scenic pauses. The climb isn’t long or steep, but it provides elevation high enough to deliver 360-degree views. At the top, you’ll find the small lighthouse, which serves more as a viewpoint marker than an operational tower.
The terrain is mostly open, with limited vegetation and no facilities on-site. It's well-maintained, and though the area is exposed to the wind, the trail is safe and clearly marked. Visitors should be prepared for strong gusts, especially at the summit, where the view opens in every direction.
The natural rock of the island and its gentle slope make it suitable for short visits. There's a loop-style walking path that guides you along the perimeter and up to the lighthouse, offering changing perspectives of the sea, town, and distant islets of Breidafjordur Bay.
Where Is Sugandisey Island Located?
Sugandisey Island is located in Stykkisholmur, a fishing town on the northern shore of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland. The town itself is around 170 kilometers (105 miles) from Reykjavík, making it reachable in under three hours by car. The island sits right next to the town harbor.
Getting to the island doesn’t require any special planning. It’s just a short walk or drive from most of Stykkisholmur’s accommodations, restaurants, and museums. Once at the harbor, the road leads directly to the base of the stairs that begin the walk up to the viewpoint.
Being part of the town’s coastal landscape, Sugandisey isn’t something you need to go out of your way to see. It’s seamlessly connected to Stykkisholmur, blending into the everyday life of the town yet offering a unique natural experience.
What Makes Sugandisey Island Special
What makes Sugandisey Island special is how much it offers in such a small space. You don’t need hiking boots or a full afternoon to appreciate its appeal. In just 10 to 20 minutes, you can walk up, take in some of the best coastal views in West Iceland, and still make it back to town in time for lunch.
The unobstructed views over Breidafjordur Bay are a highlight. Visitors often describe seeing dozens of tiny islands scattered in the water, like green dots on a blue canvas. On clear days, the contrast between the ocean, town, and surrounding cliffs creates perfect conditions for photography.
What adds charm is its peacefulness. Unlike Iceland’s more famous spots, Sugandisey usually isn't crowded. People come to stretch their legs, clear their minds, or watch the sun dip behind the mountains. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of character.
How To Get To Sugandisey Island
Getting to Sugandisey Island is easy and straightforward. If you're renting a car in Reykjavik, you can take Route 1 north toward Borgarnes, then follow Route 54 west and Route 58 to Stykkisholmur. The entire drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions.
Once in Stykkisholmur, head down to the harbor. You'll find free parking right at the base of the causeway that leads to the island. The path begins with a few stairs and transitions to gravel as it climbs gently toward the lighthouse viewpoint.
There’s no entrance fee or time restriction. The island is open year-round, though wind and ice may affect walking conditions in winter. It’s best visited on a clear day for the best views and safest walk.
Other Attractions Near Sugandisey Island
Stykkisholmur offers a few charming sites that pair nicely with a visit to Sugandisey. The town's most striking building is the Stykkisholmur Church, a futuristic structure sitting on a nearby hilltop with its own scenic overlook. It's just a short drive or walk from the harbor.
The town is also home to the Library of Water, an art installation and museum that turns water and weather into art. Seafood lovers can explore local restaurants known for serving fresh catch, including cod, mussels, and Icelandic-style fish stew.
Breidafjordur Bay boat tours from the harbor let you explore the area, offering close-up views of sea birds and marine life. All these make Súqandisey a great starting point for a full day in the region.
Sugandisey Island Tour Options
Day Tours: Most Snaefellsnes Peninsula day tours don’t include Sugandisey, so check closely if Stykkisholmur is on the itinerary before booking.
Self-Drives: Renting a car is the best option, giving you full flexibility to visit Sugandisey and nearby scenic points without time limits, like this one-week West Iceland tour.
Vacation Packages: Some customizable 3–5 day Iceland vacation packages stay in Stykkisholmur, giving you the chance to explore Sugandisey on your own.
Multi-Day Tours: Multi-day tours that include a night in Stykkisholmur often place you within walking distance of Sugandisey Island’s trail.
Tips for Visiting Sugandisey Island
Keep in mind that the wind on Sugandisey can be strong enough to knock over unsecured tripods and hats. A windbreaker and good grip shoes are recommended, especially if you're heading up during off-season months.
There are no restrooms or facilities on the island, so plan accordingly. The lighthouse isn’t open to the public—its charm lies in the view and its setting, not in entering the building. This is a photo spot, not a full tour.
Winter conditions may make the path slippery. Locals suggest visiting between late spring and early autumn for the best walking conditions. Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting.
Ready To Visit Sugandisey Island?
Sugandisey Island is a small but unforgettable part of West Iceland, offering wide-open views without demanding time or effort. Whether you're stopping in Stykkisholmur for a meal or exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula over several days, it's worth the short walk.
It’s the kind of place that won’t show up on every top-10 list, but leaves visitors surprised by its simplicity and beauty. Accessible, quiet, and packed with visual payoff, Sugandisey proves you don’t have to go far off the path to discover something special in Iceland. And if you’re curious about what Iceland has more to offer, check out these vacation packages available.
