Skarfabakki to Viðey Island Ferry Experience
Skarfabakki to Viðey Island Ferry Experience
Set off from Skarfabakki pier, a short drive from the city center, for an unforgettable journey to Viðey Island. Easily accessible by bus or during the summer via ferry from both Skarfabakki and the Old Harbour, Viðey offers an unparalleled blend of art, history, and natural beauty. Discover tranquility amongst its historical sites, including the Imagine Peace Tower by Yoko Ono, and immerse yourself in its rich birdlife and unique flora. With Viðey serving as a peaceful haven just minutes from the city, experience its magic across seasons, whether it's during the winter weekends or the daily summer departures. Remember to tread gently, respecting this national treasure's fragile beauty and its commitment to preserving nature and wildlife.
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Embark on a serene ferry journey from Skarfabakki pier, conveniently located just 5-10 minutes from the city center, with accessible bus routes 16 and 12 from Hlemmur Square leading you right to the terminal. During the summer months, relish in the daily ferry voyages departing from both Skarfabakki pier and the charming Old Harbour by Ægisgarður pier. In the colder season, the ferry service transitions to a weekend-only schedule, allowing for peaceful winter escapades to Viðey Island every Saturday and Sunday.
For winter enthusiasts, the ferry service from 1 September to 14 May offers departures at 13:15, 14:15, and 15:15, with return trips at 14:30, 15:30, and 16:30 on Saturdays and Sundays. Summer adventurers, from 15 May to 31 August, can enjoy more frequent departures, happening every hour from 10:15 to 17:15, with return ferries scheduled until 18:30 daily, ensuring ample time to explore.
Viðey Island, a mere stone's throw away from the bustling city, is a sanctuary where history, art, and natural beauty converge in harmony. The island's tranquility and the echoes of bygone eras invite visitors to immerse themselves in its untouched landscapes. With a rich tapestry of birdlife and striking modern art installations dotting the island, Viðey promises a unique cultural and natural experience. Highlights include the Imagine Peace Tower by Yoko Ono, a tribute to John Lennon symbolizing a continuance of their peace campaign, alongside attractions like Viðey Church, Viðeyjarnaust Cabin, and the scenic Viðeyjarstofa Café.
Elevated 32 meters above sea level and sprawling across 1.6 km^2, Viðey comprises Heimaey (Home Island) and Vesturey (West Island), where visitors can marvel at stunning coastal rock formations and a rich biodiversity, housing one-third of Iceland's flora. The Þórsnes peninsula, a key breeding ground showcasing eider ducks among roughly 30 bird species, is specially protected from May 1 to July 1, emphasizing the island's ecological importance.
In summer, the Reykjavik City Museum breathes life into Viðey with a variety of events, inviting guests to experience the island's vibrant cultural scene. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, respecting the natural habitats by sticking to paths, preserving the birdlife, and participating in recycling efforts, underscoring Viðey as a cherished national treasure deserving collective stewardship and care.
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Itinerary
Explore Viðey Island: A Comprehensive Itinerary
Getting There
Ferry departure at Skarfabakki pier, a quick 5-10 minute drive from the city center, with buses 16 and 12 providing direct service from Hlemmur Square. In summer, enjoy daily services from both Skarfabakki and the Old Harbour. Winter weekends see a more limited schedule.
Ferry Schedule
Summer (15 May - 31 August): Ferries run daily with multiple departures and returns throughout the day.
Winter (1 September - 14 May): Service is limited to weekends, with three departures and returns each day.
About Viðey Island
A serene blend of history, art, and nature awaits visitors just minutes from the city. Home to the Imagine Peace Tower, Viðey Church, and abundant birdlife among other highlights, the island is a treasure trove of tranquility and cultural significance.
Flora and Fauna
Diverse bird species make Viðey their breeding ground, especially from May to July. The island also boasts a significant portion of Iceland's flora, with 156 types of vascular plants identified.
Summer Events
From family yoga to historical walks, Viðey offers an array of activities in the summer. Highlights include:
- Family Yoga and Relaxation
- Summer Solstice Walk
- Art Workshops and Beach Fun
Note: Events cater primarily to Icelandic speakers and require ferry booking in advance.
Preserving Viðey
Visitors are encouraged to respect the island's natural beauty and wildlife by following designated paths, avoiding nesting areas, and recycling waste.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Return tickets
- Ferry from Skarfabakki to Viðey
- Return ferry can be to either harbour in summer
Exclusions
Details not provided.
Important Notes
Ferry departure at Skarfabakki pier, about 5-10 min. drive from the city centre. Buses on route 16 and 12 go directly from Hlemmur Square to the ferry terminal.During the summer, daily ferry departures from Skarfabakki pier and the Old Harbour by Ægisgarður pier. In winter, the ferry runs only on Saturdays and Sundays from Skarfabakki to Viðey.1 September - 14 May: Winter departures: Saturdays and Sundays 13:15, 14:15, and 15:15. Winter return ferry: Saturdays and Sundays 14:30, 15:30, and 16:30.15 May - 31 August: Summer departures: Everyday at 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:15, 16:15, 17:15. Summer return ferry: Everyday at 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30, 17:30, 18:30.Viðey island combines history, art, and nature. It features unspoiled nature, a unique place in Icelandic history, and rich birdlife and art installations.The island is home to the Imagine Peace Tower, Viðey Church, Viðeyjarnaust Cabin, Viðeyjarstofa Café, the Old School House, and the Water Reservoir.The island is about 32 m above sea level, 1,6 km2 in size and consists of Heimaey and Vesturey. It has 156 types of vascular plants and notable rock formations along the coastline.Þórsnes peninsula is protected during breeding season, from 1st May - 1st July, aiming to preserve the eider duck and other species' nesting grounds.During summertime, Reykjavik City Museum organises several events on the island. Visitors are encouraged to check the itinerary for updates on upcoming events.Viðey is a national treasure. Visitors are asked to be careful around high cliffs, always walk along the paths, leave nests alone, respect wildlife, and recycle waste.Children tickets (0-6 yrs.) are free when travelling with a parent or guardian. Up to three children tickets can be booked at a discounted rate per adult, per booking.Kindergarten groups are asked to contact sales@elding.is directly to book onto the ferry.