Westman Islands / Vestmannaeyjar

The Westman Islands are renowned for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, shaped by millennia of volcanic activity. With My Private Iceland you enjoy the freedom to explore the Westman Islands at your own pace while creating unforgettable memories – with puffins!

Volcanic Landscape

Puffins

Duration: 10 - 12 hours

Price: From 190.000 ISK

Look the charming puffins right in the eyes, up close, at one of the largest puffin colonies in the world is in The Westman Islands at Stórhöfði, a scenic and rugged headland located on the southern coast of Heimaey, with panoramic views of the ocean, coastline and surrounding islands.

Vestmannaeyjar is an archipelago south of Iceland, a total of 15 islands and about 30 sker and drangar. Heimaey is the largest of the islands and the only one that is inhabited, but there is Vestmannaeyjabær with about 4,300 inhabitants.

The islands have all been formed in volcanic eruptions, 10,000-12,000 years ago. Vestmannaeyjar is in an extensive volcanic area that is about 38 km long and 30 km wide with 70-80 volcanoes both underwater and above sea. But don’t worry, it last erupted in 1967 when Surtsey was formed. Which lasted for four years and is therefore the longest eruption in the history of Iceland!

We know the best and safest spots and will take you to observe these amazing seabirds, in their natural habitat.

Experience the beauty, culture, and adventure of this fascinating archipelago, located off the south coast of Iceland. The most notable eruption in recent history occurred in 1973 when the Eldfell volcano erupted, causing widespread destruction and reshaping the island of Heimaey. Feel the energy and heat from the volcano Eldfell while exploring, we can even hike fairly easily to the top of it, with stunning views over the islands. Don’t miss the Eldheimar volcano Museum, which provides insight into the 1973 volcanic eruption and its impact on the local community.

Volcanic Landscape: Explore the largest and only town of Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, Heimaey, which boasts charming streets, colorful houses, and a vibrant harbor area. The various fish restaurants on the island are among the best in the country, ideal for lunch break. The trail through the newest lava field between the homes of the islanders is especially interesting, but so many houses went under the lava in the 1973 eruption. We drive to Stórhöfði, one of the most remote and picturesque spots on the island.

Plan: Ferry leaves from Landeyjahöfn harbor on the South Coast, about 2 hrs drive from Reykjavík. The boat ride is 40 min. each way. We can start in Reykjavík or somewhere in the South. Before the boat ride to the Westman Islands, we explore Seljalandsfoss, a mesmerizing waterfall located just there en route. Find yourself going behind the waterfall and feel the power spraying over you while you become part of natural power!

Highlights

Eldfell

Eldfell is a volcano that formed in the Heimaeyjar eruption in 1973. It is about 131 meters high and so much fun to hike! The hike is ideal for families or those who don't have a lot of hiking experience, but bring good footwear. A short distance from Eldfell volcano is the museum Eldheimar, which tells the story of the eruption.

Puffins and birdlife

As we drive along the peninsula, be sure to take your time and soak in the breathtaking scenery at every turn and charming fishing villages in between. Our lunch stop at Ólafsvík or Hellissandur makes sure we have options of fresh fish dishes by the harbor restaurants.

Eldheimar volano museum

The exhibition recalls in a graphic and interesting way when over 5000 inhabitants of the Westman Islands fled their homes on the fateful night of January 23, 1973. Many lost their homes as well as their belongings and many never returned.

Fishing culture

The harbor is so charming and the local restaurants bring you the best and most fresh fish in Iceland! From the very earliest times, the islanders have provided for themselves with the bounty that they have sought at sea. Excellent fishing grounds are located very close by and since the island was inhabited, The Westman Islands have always been the country’s most profitable fishing harbor.

Stórhofdi

Stórhöfdi is the southernmost point of the Westman Islands. There is a lot of birdlife, and there is a birdwatching house right next door. The view of Heimaey, the biggest island and the only inhabitated one, to the north is exceptionally beautiful, and on the south-west side of Storhofdi there is also a magnificent view of the nearby islands. On the headland is the southernmost and also one of the oldest lighthouses in the country, Stórhöfðaviti, which has been in use since 1906. At Storhofdi there is a weather observation station which is said to be the windiest weather station in Europe. Weather records have been broken many times there, but for example the lowest air pressure on land in Europe has been measured there. During the Second World War, there were braggs on Storhofdi where soldiers from various nations were stationed, where it was convenient to observe sea and air traffic at the southernmost point of Iceland. The hike is ideal for families and those who don't have a lot of hiking experience.

Ferry ride among islands

The journey to the Westman Islands is spectacular as you see the islands up close, steep cliffs and birdlife. I)t takes about 40 minutes to sail from Landeyjarhofn harbour to Westman Islands.

Scenes from the tour

Extra activites

The SEA LIFE TRUST Beluga Whale Sanctuary

Experience the beluga whales Little Grey and Little White’s journey to Iceland and get up close to local sea creatures The center includes information and displays relating to Little White and Little Grey's epic journey from China to Iceland, as well as a local species aquarium and resident rescued puffins. As a non-profit center, all ticket sales support the best possible care for Little White and Little Grey.

More info

Spranga - cliff swinging:

Sprangan or cliff swinging is a popular sport among Icelanders. What you have to do here is to take the rope and swing your way from one side of the cliff to the other. At first, it might seem like an easy and fun activity, but it actually requires a lot of strength and preparation to ensure safety.

More info

Seljalandsfoss

This stunning waterfall is just there on the way to the ferry. We can stop here for coffee and some fresh water spraying, while going behind the waterfall to get that unique view from the cave behind!