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Grímsey: Iceland's Enchanting Arctic Island Escape
27 Jul
Summary
- Grímsey is a remote island just 24.8 miles off the coast of Iceland, with more seabirds than permanent residents.
- The island is a haven for nature lovers, featuring dramatic cliffs, black beaches, lava fields, and the elusive northern lights.
- Grímsey is home to a major nesting site for the majestic puffin, drawing visitors to the island.
Grímsey, a tiny island just 24.8 miles off the coast of Iceland, is a stunning escape from the crowds. Straddling the iconic Arctic Circle, this remote island is defined by a lush landscape of rugged cliffs and dramatic shores, and is home to more seabirds than permanent residents.
The island is a haven for nature lovers, featuring jet-black beaches, vast fields of lava rock, hot springs, and the elusive northern lights. One of the major attractions is the majestic puffin, which makes its nest in the island's cliffs from April to August. In 2017, a new landmark called "Orbus et Globus" was revealed, marking the location where the Arctic Circle passes through the island.
Despite its remote location, Grímsey has become more accessible in recent years, with the launch of three weekly domestic flights. The island's sole permanent resident, Halla Ingolfsdottir, moved there full-time in 2019, drawn by the island's "magic" and the unique way of life. She describes the island's natural power, with the winter darkness giving way to the northern lights, stars, and storms, and the spring bringing the return of the birds.
