Sunday, July 27, 2025
Iceland’s Grímsey Island stands as an unparalleled sanctuary for those seeking solitude and a connection to nature. Just 24.8 miles off the northern coast of Iceland, this remote island offers breathtaking landscapes, home to more seabirds than humans. Its tranquility and isolation make it a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers eager to witness puffins in their natural habitat. With only 20 residents, Grímsey’s limited tourism enhances its allure, offering an authentic experience far removed from the bustle of everyday life. The island’s stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a true escape from the ordinary.
Grímsey, situated merely 24.8 miles off Iceland’s northern coastline, is the country’s northernmost island that remains inhabited. Its remote and tranquil atmosphere creates a feeling of solitude that makes visitors feel as though they are “alone in the universe.” With more seabirds than people, Grímsey has become a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, particularly known as a vital nesting site for the charismatic puffin.
Grímsey, despite its stunning natural landscapes, is home to only 20 people, who reside on the island’s 2.5 square miles of terrain. The island’s quiet existence has remained unchanged for centuries, with the only means of access until 1931 being small boats that delivered mail twice a year. However, travel to the island has become easier in recent years, with three weekly domestic flights now connecting it to Iceland’s mainland.
Although the island’s isolation might discourage some visitors, the limited tourism on Grímsey only adds to its allure. Reaching the island involves several steps. First, visitors must fly to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, which takes approximately three hours and twelve minutes from major UK airports such as Manchester, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London Luton, and Heathrow. Direct flights to Reykjavik from these airports are frequent, and if travelers are flexible with their dates, return fares can be found for as little as £86 in September.
Once in Reykjavik, the journey to Grímsey continues with a four-hour, 241-mile drive to the northern city of Akureyri. Alternatively, travelers can take a 45-minute flight for around £180 round-trip. From Akureyri, it’s a short 30-minute flight to Grímsey, with Norlandair operating two to three flights per week from June to September. This multi-stage journey adds to the feeling of isolation, as reaching the island is a small adventure in itself.
Accommodation on Grímsey is simple and limited. The island’s only available lodging on Booking.com for mid-August is Guesthouse Básar, a cozy and modest bed and breakfast with stunning sea views. Although the guesthouse provides basic comfort, it offers a unique experience for those seeking an authentic stay on one of the most remote islands in the world. For a three-night stay from Friday, August 15 to Monday, August 18, a double room with a shared bathroom will cost £391, which includes a highly praised breakfast.
Grímsey is not a typical tourist destination. Grímsey offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and escape the constant rush of daily life. The island’s sparse population and the surrounding wildlife make it a paradise for bird watchers, particularly those keen on seeing puffins up close. As one of Iceland’s least visited locations, Grímsey offers a sense of adventure for those willing to venture to its remote shores.
Iceland’s Grímsey Island is a hidden sanctuary, offering solitude, stunning landscapes, and a rich birdwatching experience. With only 20 residents and limited tourism, it provides an authentic retreat for nature lovers seeking peace and isolation.
For those who manage to make the journey, Grímsey promises a rare and peaceful retreat. The isolation and unique natural environment make the island an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn by its avian inhabitants, its sense of tranquility, or its rich cultural history, Grímsey offers a chance to escape to a place that feels like a world apart.
