No, it does not look like much. But a few hours at Grimsey island might well make your day in Iceland. PIC mouserNedbot
N ot too many people visiting Iceland make the effort of visiting the small island of Grimsey in the North of the country. But they definitely should.
Indeed, this small speck of landmass is hardly visible on maps. But taking the detour and spending a few hours here will bring you straight into the arms of rather marvelous locals, flocks of different seabirds and the only spot in Iceland where you can boast about having reached the Arctic circle.
Now, we´ll be honest, team Total Iceland does not really understand the fascination of the Arctic circle. It´s not as if you´ll notice much of anything. If that makes you happy please go ahead but do be generous with time with the locals here. They, all 86 of them, are the real reason to spend time here. Above-average friendly and can tell you stories galore about the hardship of living in such a windswept and secluded spot on the globe.
Yes, there is a small bar here and accommodation too and taking in the village takes all of two minutes or so. But in a crowded world that might just tempt those of you tired of the masses. Oh, and bring the camera. Loads of options for Kodak moments here.
It is possible to stay here overnight or nights if you so choose. Guesthouses are found here but generally speaking a few hours will be quite enough for most visitors.
Getting here takes a bit of effort. Either board a plane from Akureyri airport from which there are regular daily flights in summertime. This can be quite expensive over high season as places are limited but it´s quick and painless. Your other option is to take a ferry from Dalvik. The ferry option is nicer in a scenic sense and you have the option of visiting another inhabited island, Hrisey, as well. But seas can be choppy which makes for a less than excellent sailing. It also takes time. The tour takes three hours each way and thus makes a visit to Grimsey a whole day affair.
