Exploring Grimsey Island – Iceland’s Puffin Paradise

Picture a world of endless blue skies, crystal-clear glacial lakes, & basalt cliffs that tower above the sea. As you explore Grimsey Island – Iceland’s Puffin Paradise Above the Arctic Circle – you’ll be seduced by the unique natural beauty of this remote, northernmost destination. Home to some of the world’s most spectacular seabird colonies, Grimsey Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, & many other species up close.

Despite its remote location, the island has seen a steady stream of visitors in recent years, drawn in by its stunning beauty, rich culture, & incredible wildlife. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an avid birdwatcher, or a history buff, Grimsey Island is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the harsh yet captivating beauty of the Arctic Circle.

Overview of Grimsey Island

Grimsey Island is an Icelandic island located 40 kilometres off the coast of the mainland. It is also the northernmost inhabited island in the country, & its location – halfway between the North Pole & the Arctic Circle – makes it an incredibly unique destination. The island is just 1.4km wide & 4.2 km long, & it is home to a small but vibrant community of fishermen, biologists, & tourism operators.

Grimsey Island is renowned for its picturesque coastline, breathtaking cliffs, & unique wildlife, making it a favourite destination for outdoor enthusiasts & birdwatchers. The island’s history dates back to 874 AD when Irish monks first settled it. For centuries, the island served as an essential trading post, fishing village, & shelter for fish-based industries. Today, Grimsey Island is a designated nature reserve with a range of protected areas & environmental initiatives in place.

Wildlife on Grimsey Island – Iceland’s Puffin Paradise

Grimsey Island is a paradise for birdwatchers & wildlife enthusiasts. The island’s terrain provides an ideal habitat for a diverse range of seabird species. The iconic inhabitant of Grimsey Island is the Atlantic Puffin

The island also serves as a breeding ground for seals & walruses, & its waters are filled with various whales, including the majestic humpback whale.

How to Get to Grimsey Island

The easiest way to reach Grimsey Island is by ferry from Akureyri in North Iceland. The ferry takes approximately 1 hour & 15 minutes & departs from the port of Dalvik. From Akureyri, visitors can rent a car & drive to Dalvik or take a public bus. Once on the island, visitors can explore its sights & attractions on foot. There are also several guided tours available, which provide a great way to explore the island in comfort & safety.

For travellers wishing to stay overnight, a small guesthouse on the island offers a range of accommodation options.

What to Do on Grimsey Island

Grimsey Island offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular activities is birdwatching, with many visitors coming to observe the island’s stunning seabird colonies.

There are also several hiking trails that wind through the island’s rugged terrain, offering great views of the coast & neighbouring islands.

Those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or a stroll along the beach. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities, including whale-watching cruises.

Final Thoughts on Grimsey Island

The Island is an idyllic destination for anyone looking to experience the wild beauty of the Arctic Circle. Whether you’re a bird photographer or simply an outdoor enthusiast, Grimsey Island offers something for everyone.

With its stunning coastlines, diverse wildlife, & cultural attractions, Grimsey Island is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Arctic.

What is the best time of year to see Puffins in Iceland?

Spring is the best time of year for seeing puffins in Iceland. From mid-May to mid-July, the puffin population reaches its peak. During this time, the puffin colonies can be seen in many of the coastal towns & villages around Iceland, giving visitors the chance to get up close & personal with these colorful birds.

Which Tours Does NaturesLens Schedule for Photographing Iceland’s Puffins?

NaturesLens offers a range of photography holidays designed to allow photographers of all levels to add images of Iceland’s Atlantic Puffins to their portfolio. These trips generally are conducted in June or July when the Icelandic wildlife is most active.

Our photography holidays allow photographers to capture stunning images of Iceland’s Atlantic Puffins as well as many other species such as guillemots, kittiwakes, rock ptarmigan, red-necked phalarope & much more.

At NaturesLens, we aim to provide photographers with an unforgettable experience that will leave them with beautiful, memorable images. Our trips are led by experienced wildlife photographers passionate about wildlife photography & are dedicated to helping photographers capture the best images possible.