Flatey Island
Flatey Island
Car-free Flatey with its colorful village houses has a ‘lost in time’ feeling. It was once an important settlement and a monastery was founded here in the 12th century.
One of Iceland’s most famous historic manuscripts, the 14th-century Flateyjarbok, was owned by a Flatey farmer until he was forced to sell it to the bishop who then handed it to the Danish King in 1647.
It was finally returned to Iceland from Denmark in 1971 when thousands lined the quayside in Reykjavik to celebrate its return.
The island is just 1km by 2km in size and though there is only one family living there year-round all the village houses are maintained.
The population swells in summer when their owners return to enjoy the tranquil island life.
During the breeding season, part of Flatey is closed to walkers to protect the birds and all visitors are asked to respect any notices regarding this.
The birdlife is abundant and tame snipe, redshank, black guillemot, and arctic tern are readily observed.
Flatey has a hotel and cafe.