Why you should visit Flatey Island, Iceland

If you’re a bird lover, photographer, or simply someone looking for peace and raw beauty, Flatey Island in Breiðafjörður, West Iceland, is a destination you shouldn’t miss. True to its name, Flatey (“flat island”) is small, low-lying, and incredibly rich in birdlife. Visiting feels like stepping back in time—no cars, just colourful old houses, winding footpaths, and wide open skies filled with birds.

During summer, the island becomes a haven for nesting seabirds. Arctic terns swoop and call overhead, puffins bob near the shoreline, and red-necked phalaropes spin in quiet pools. The sheer density and variety of birds make it one of the best places in Iceland for bird photography. You don’t need long hikes or special gear—just patience, respect, and a camera.

But it’s not just about birds. The soft light, especially in early morning or late evening, is perfect for landscape photography too. Wooden fences, wildflowers, and weathered sheds offer charming foregrounds to the sea and sky beyond.

Flatey is peaceful, slow, and full of small wonders. It’s the kind of place where time stretches out and nature feels close. For anyone with a lens and love for the wild, it’s pure magic.