Audio Guide of Hrútey Island

Access is exclusively via a scenic pedestrian bridge crossing the Blanda River from Blönduós. The island is open 24 hours a day, but keep in mind that it is **closed for conservation** during the birds’ nesting season, generally from late April to June; I recommend checking the current status on Visit North Iceland before you go.

Entry to the Hrútey nature reserve is **completely free**. It is a protected public space, ideal for enjoying nature at no cost, although visitors are always encouraged to respect conservation rules to help keep it that way.

The visit is relaxed and will not take all day; allow around **45 minutes to one hour** to walk the trails at an easy pace. It is the perfect amount of time to complete the full circuit, enjoy the views of the glacial river, and listen to our audio guide about the local wildlife.

Hrútey was declared a nature reserve in 1975 and is a symbol of reforestation and biodiversity protection in Iceland. Historically used for grazing, it is now a vital sanctuary for birds and native vegetation amid the strong currents of the Blanda River.

The best time is **summer (July and August)**, just after reopening following the nesting season, when the vegetation is at its most lush. Summer sunsets offer spectacular light for photography over the river.

Although the access bridge is stable, the trails on the island are natural dirt paths that can be uneven. It is not considered 100% accessible for standard wheelchairs, but people with mild mobility limitations may be able to use the areas near the bridge with caution.

Take advantage of your stop to visit the impressive modern church Blönduóskirkja, designed to resemble a volcanic crater. I also recommend visiting the acclaimed Icelandic Textile Museum, located very close to the island.

Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the path can be damp because of its proximity to the river. And very importantly: if you visit in summer, bring binoculars to watch the birds without disturbing them; it is a uniquely immersive nature experience that becomes even better with a specialized audio guide.