A Tiny Island with a Big Heart and One Million Birds

Image Name: Solitude on a Rocky Shore

When you think of Iceland, you probably envision dramatic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and cascading waterfalls. However, a lesser-known gem offers a unique adventure for the truly intrepid traveler – Grímsey Island. Located 40 kilometers off Iceland’s northern coast, this 6.5-square-kilometer island is the country’s northernmost inhabited point and the only part of Iceland within the Arctic Circle. With a population of just 20 people and over one million birds, Grímsey offers an extraordinary blend of solitude, wildlife, and rugged natural beauty.

Journey to Grímsey
Reaching Grímsey has become significantly easier over the years. While the island was once accessible only by a biannual mail boat, today, you can take a 20-minute flight from Akureyri or a three-hour ferry from Dalvík. These modern conveniences whisk you away to a place that feels worlds apart from the mainland, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Wildlife Wonderland
The island is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Arctic terns, known for their aggressive nesting behavior, share the island with puffins, black-legged kittiwakes, razorbills, and guillemots. The seabird population outnumbers human residents by a staggering 50,000 to one. The island’s cliffs and shores provide perfect nesting grounds, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat.

Life on the Edge
Grímsey’s community is tight-knit and self-sufficient. Halla Ingolfsdottir, a local tour guide and owner of Arctic Trip, moved to the island full-time in 2019 after years of visiting. Despite the island’s isolation, she is constantly occupied, running tours, managing a guesthouse, and even checking on the island’s diesel-powered generator. Unlike the mainland, Grímsey is off Iceland’s national power grid, relying solely on this single generator for electricity.

Image Name: Sunlit Escape in the Tropics

Embracing the Elements
Living on Grímsey requires resilience and flexibility. There are no hospitals, doctors, or police stations on the island. Instead, the residents are trained to handle emergencies until help arrives from the mainland. The island experiences polar nights, casting it into complete darkness from early December to mid-February. To combat this, islanders brighten their homes with Christmas lights, creating a festive atmosphere until February.

A Glimpse into History
Grímsey’s history is steeped in local lore. Named after a Norse settler, Grimur, the island has been a valuable site since 1024, as noted in ancient Icelandic sagas. Despite facing near-collapse in the 18th century due to pneumonia and fishing accidents, the community has endured, maintaining its unique identity and traditions.

Modern-Day Grímsey
Today, Grímsey is part of the municipality of Akureyri, yet its residents remain fiercely proud of their distinct way of life. The settlement of Sandvík on the island’s southwest side includes homes, guesthouses, a small grocery store, a restaurant with a bar, a swimming pool, a library, and a church. These facilities serve both the local population and the adventurous tourists who visit.

The Arctic Circle Monument
One of Grímsey’s most notable features is its location within the Arctic Circle. This is celebrated with two landmarks. In 2017, a 3,447kg concrete sphere called Orbis et Globus was installed to mark the intersection of the Arctic Circle and the island. This monument is moved annually to align with the shifting line of latitude, a task requiring specialized equipment from the mainland.

The Allure of Grímsey
What truly sets Grímsey apart is its unique combination of natural beauty and community spirit. María H Tryggvadóttir, the island’s project manager for tourism, highlights the island’s remoteness, unique light, and incredible birdlife. Walking along the island’s cliffs, surrounded by seabirds, offers a profound sense of tranquility and connection to nature.

Future Prospects
Looking ahead, there are plans to develop new facilities on Grímsey, including a retreat for writers and creatives. This initiative aims to provide a haven for those seeking inspiration from the island’s serene environment.

Conclusion
Your visit to Grímsey is more than just a trip to a remote island; it’s a journey into a way of life that values community, nature, and simplicity. While the island welcomes visitors, there is a conscious effort to maintain its charm and avoid mass tourism. This delicate balance ensures that Grímsey remains a special place for those who seek its unique allure. Embark on an adventure to Grímsey and experience the magic of the Arctic Circle. Whether you’re captivated by the abundant wildlife, the dramatic landscapes, or the resilient community, this small island offers an unforgettable escape from the ordinary.