Source: Flickr

If the stoic island above looks uninhabited, it’s because it most likely is. While Bjarnarey comprises one part of the Vestmann Islands, due to a horrendous 1973 volcano eruption, all denizens of the quaint township were forced to evacuate and move to Iceland’s mainland for several months.

The volcano has inspired legend for centuries, and for good reason. In 2011, the majestic Icelandic menace known as Grimsvotn volcano erupted and caused quite the ruckus for European fliers for the weeks to come, all the while reminding us how incredibly small we really are.

With such a fertile, serene and whimsical backdrop, it’s easy to see why so many Icelanders believe in Huldufólk, or hidden fairies.