Flatey brings together nature, architectural history, and a maritime past on one island. Its character ranges from the Breiðafjörður protected area and diverse birdlife to its church, book house, former trading status, and ferry connection. If you are looking for accommodation for a stay on the island, these different themes can help guide your choice based on the purpose of your trip.

An Island Profile Between Fjord and Village

Flatey is the largest island in Breiðafjörður and the only island there with people living on it year-round. It is about 1,850 meters long and about 400 meters wide at its widest point; a ridge 10 to 12 meters high runs through its center. Together, these measurements give a concrete picture of the island’s elongated shape and central ridge. Its permanent population adds another indication of the place’s character to this geographic profile.

Under Act No. 54/1995, Flatey is part of the Breiðafjörður protected area. The coastal area north and east of the village is home to diverse birdlife. This specific coastal feature adds a distinct natural dimension to the island’s history and architecture. If you are interested in birdlife, you can take this focus into account when planning your trip, alongside the historic buildings.

Architectural History and Protection

Flateyjarkirkja was built in 1926. Baltasar Samper painted the images in the church’s vault and its altarpiece. This named building thus combines a specific year of construction with artistic decoration. Bókhlaða, also known as Bókhús, was built in 1864 and is considered Iceland’s oldest book house.

On April 2, 1975, the Minister of Education placed Bókhlaða in protection class A under Articles 26 and 27 of Iceland’s Heritage Protection Act No. 52/1969. Its construction date and protected status mark different stages: the book house dates from the 19th century, while its protection status was established later. The village and surrounding area also have their own planning history. Reykhólahreppur’s master plan for 2006 to 2018 designated them as a local conservation area. This designation therefore applied to the village and its surroundings, while the class A designation applies to Bókhlaða.

Trading History and Getting There

Flatey was authorized as a legally recognized trading post in 1777. The Silfurgarður tells a later part of the island’s maritime history: Guðmundur Scheving built it in 1833 to protect schooners and other ships in the bays from the open sea during westerly winds. This made the bay a completely safe harbor. The dates put these two histories in context: the recognized trading post of the 18th century was followed in the 19th century by protection for ships in the bays.

The Baldur ferry operates between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur, stopping at Flatey to pick up and drop off passengers and freight. If you are planning a stay on Flatey, factor the connection into your schedule and check the timetable for your travel date. This will help you coordinate your journey with your planned stay.

Discover more destinations: Thorlakshöfn, Geysir, Reykholt, Skaftafell

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