Videy Island Guide
Videy Island is close to Reykjavik, and can be reached on a 7-minute boat trip from the Sunhahofn harbour. You can spend a few days or even a few hours exploring the island, as there are a number of intriguing spots to visit. The island has a great history that you can discover as well as exquisite natural spots which truly reflects the great beauty of the Icelandic setting.
The history of Videy Island
There have been many archaeological excavations upon Videy Island, which have uncovered that the area had inhabitants from as early as the 10th century. The island was then the location of an Augustine monastery between the years of 1225 and 1539. Later on, the island was home to the first Icelandic treasurer and sub-governor. Then at the start of the 20th century, Videy had the first Icelandic harbour suitable for ocean liners. Island life developed around the harbour, and a small hamlet soon began to flourish.
How to get to Videy Island
People can visit Videy Island from the Reykjavik Sundahofn harbour. It is ideal for a daytrip as there are plenty of activities to take you from morning till night. However you can also stay over on the island for a relaxing retreat away from day-to-day life. The boats set off from Reykjavik every hour during the summer months, however there are only three boats a day – on Saturday and Sunday – during the winter season.
Things to do
Videy Island has exquisite scenery, so many enjoy partaking in outdoor activities to make the most of their great surroundings. There are a number of great walking paths around the island, taking you to different areas containing an array of Icelandic wildlife. You can stroll through grasses, walk your way across soft hollows and even take a trip across the beach during your time in the area.
You can also hire a bike to see the natural sights from a different perspective. These can be picked up from The Videy House, and there are bikes available for all ages, making a visit to Videt island a perfect daytrip for the entire family.
Be on the lookout for different types of birds while on the island, as Videy is well known for its birdlife. There are at least 30 species to spot, and the birds even lay eggs on the island. Discovering one of these spots is sure to become a memorable aspect of your Icelandic holiday.
Videy Island also contains one of the oldest buildings within Iceland. The church was built during 1774 and still stands today. However the churches from the monastery were sadly demolished in 1539 following a raid on the building. You can also visit the Videyjarstofa house, which is now a restaurant on the island. It was built during 1755 and was the first construction made from stone and cement in the entire country.