Flatey Island is just one of the hundreds of islets in Breiðafjörður Bay, but it’s the only one that’s inhabited. Until the 1970s, the island had no permanent residents, but gradually people began to return, and the place is now sought after for its tranquility. For tourists, it offers an extraordinary Icelandic experience full of peace and can significantly enhance the journey between the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords. Even though you can’t reach the island with your own car, if you take the ferry with your car, you can arrange to leave the car on the ferry while you stay on the island until the next ferry. When you continue your journey, you can pick up the keys at the ferry’s canteen, and your car will be waiting for you at your destination. In the local waters, we spotted about 20 puffins lazily floating near the island. If you wish to stay longer, besides the usual accommodation options under a roof, there is also a rather deserted-looking campsite.
The easiest way to reach the island is by ferry from the town of Stykkishólmur (1.5 hours sailing) or from the Brjánslækur dock (1 hour sailing). You can find boat tickets and more information on the website seatours.is.
