Viðey Island | Reykjavik

Information

Landmark: Viðey Island
City: Reykjavik
Country: Iceland
Continent: Europe

Viðey Island, Reykjavik, Iceland, Europe

Viðey Island is an uninhabited island situated in Kollafjörður Bay, off the coast of Reykjavik, Iceland. It functions as a historical site, nature reserve, and location for art installations, accessible by ferry.

Visual Characteristics

The island features low-lying grassy plains, basalt rock formations along its coastline, and two prominent stone buildings: Viðey House and Viðey Church. Viðey House is a white, two-story structure with a dark roof, constructed from Icelandic stone. Viðey Church is a smaller, white stone church with a red roof. The Imagine Peace Tower consists of a white stone base from which a column of light is projected vertically into the sky. The island's elevation provides panoramic views of the surrounding bay and the Reykjavik skyline.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Viðey Island is via ferry services operated by Elding. Ferries depart from Skarfabakki year-round, and seasonally from Ægisgarður and the Old Harbour. The Skarfabakki ferry terminal is approximately 3.5km east of Reykjavik city center. Public bus routes 16 and 18 serve the Skarfabakki terminal. Parking facilities are available at all departure points.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Viðey House, completed in 1755, is the oldest stone building in Iceland, designed by Danish architect Nicolai Eigtved. It served as the residence for the Sheriff of Gullbringusýsla and later as a private home. Viðey Church was consecrated in 1774. Ecologically, Viðey Island is a volcanic island, characteristic of the region, and functions as a bird sanctuary, particularly for eider ducks and various waders.

Key Highlights & Activities

Walking and hiking trails traverse the island, including paths leading to the Imagine Peace Tower and the Milestones art installations. Bird watching is possible, especially during nesting seasons. Visitors can explore the historical Viðey House and Viðey Church. Guided tours of the island's history and nature are available seasonally.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restroom facilities are available inside Viðey House. Natural shade is limited, primarily provided by small rock formations or sparse vegetation. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available across the island. A restaurant, Viðeyjarstofa, operates within Viðey House, offering food and beverages.

Best Time to Visit

The summer months, from June to August, offer the mildest weather conditions for exploring the island. For photography of the Imagine Peace Tower, the period between October 9th and December 8th, and again from December 31st to January 7th, is optimal when the light installation is active, particularly at dusk. Ferry schedules are more frequent during peak tourist season.

Facts & Legends

The Imagine Peace Tower, a memorial to John Lennon from Yoko Ono, projects a beam of light into the sky annually from October 9th (Lennon's birthday) to December 8th (the anniversary of his death), and for other specific periods. The island was once home to a monastery established in the 12th century, and its ruins are still present.