Viðey Island
A few minutes by ferry from Reykjavík's harbour, Viðey feels a world away from the city — a quiet island of walking trails, seabirds and wildflowers, a 13th-century monastery site, and two of the country's most striking public artworks, including Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower.
The Experience
A Short Ferry Ride Out
Ferries run from Skarfabakki (a 5-minute crossing) or, in summer, directly from Reykjavík's Old Harbour (about 20 minutes) — both run daily from mid-May through August, with a reduced weekend schedule the rest of the year. It's an easy, unhurried way to spend a few hours away from the city without a long drive.
A Small Island With a Long History
Viðey was home to a 13th-century monastery and later a centre of learning and culture. Viðeyjarstofa, built in 1755, is the oldest stone building in Iceland and once housed Iceland's royal treasurer — today it's a small restaurant. Walking trails cross the island past nesting seabirds (over 30 species) and more than 150 kinds of wildflowers.
Two Landmark Artworks
Richard Serra's Áfangar— nine pairs of basalt columns set into the landscape — has stood on the island since 1990. And each year, Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower sends a beam of light straight up from a white stone wishing well, visible for miles across the bay.
The Imagine Peace Tower, unveiled on October 9, 2007 — what would have been John Lennon's 67th birthday. It's lit each year from October 9 to December 8, again around New Year, and for one week near the spring equinox.
There's no shop or facilities beyond the seasonal restaurant at Viðeyjarstofa, so it's worth bringing water and dressing for the weather. Stick to the marked walking paths to protect the island's vegetation and nesting birds, and check the ferry schedule before you go, since it changes with the season.
Available Viðey Island Tours
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