Viðey is a low, grassy island in Kollafjörður bay, a few minutes by ferry from Reykjavík’s Skarfabakki pier. People come for the quiet coastal walking, settlement-era history, and outdoor art, all within sight of the capital (Things to Do in Iceland).
Near the ferry landing is Viðeyjarstofa, a stone house completed in 1755 for treasurer Skúli Magnússon (Iceland.org). Beside it is Viðey Church, consecrated in 1774 and one of Iceland’s oldest churches, with its original interior. Footpaths loop across the island, past the site of a 13th-century Augustinian monastery and through nesting grounds for about 30 bird species, including eider ducks (Visit Reykjavík). On the western section, Richard Serra’s Áfangar places pairs of basalt pillars across open ground. Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower projects a column of light into the sky each year from October 9, John Lennon’s birthday, to December 8.
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Elding Adventure at Sea runs the ferry for the city. In summer, boats sail daily from Skarfabakki, the Old Harbour and Harpa. In winter, the only service runs from Skarfabakki on Saturdays and Sundays, so check the current timetable before planning an October trip (Elding). Weekday mornings in summer are the quietest. Plan two to four hours, wear windproof layers and sturdy shoes, and bring snacks, because services on the island are limited.
