Heimaey

Volcanic history, a dramatic harbour and seasonal seabird life in the Westman Islands.

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Information about Heimaey

Heimaey is the largest of Iceland’s Westman Islands and the archipelago’s only island inhabited year-round. The harbour lies between steep volcanic cliffs, creating one of the country’s most memorable approaches from the sea.

In January 1973, an eruption opened beside the town and formed Eldfell. Residents were evacuated, and the lava transformed part of the island while stopping just short of closing the harbour. Trails and exhibits now reveal this recent geological history. Heimaey is also known for seabirds, including Atlantic puffins in season, but wildlife and shore activities always depend on weather, sea conditions and the time of year.

Interesting facts about Heimaey

Largest island in the Westman Islands archipelago.

Only Westman Island inhabited throughout the year.

The Eldfell eruption began in January 1973.

Lava from the eruption reshaped the island and its harbour entrance.

Atlantic puffins are seasonal wild visitors and sightings are never guaranteed.

Pictures of Heimaey

Red volcanic slopes of Eldfell above the coast of Heimaey

Atlantic puffins resting on a sea cliff at the southern tip of Heimaey

Our highlights in Heimaey

Highlights in Heimaey

Surtsey

Surtsey is a young volcanic island southwest of Heimaey, formed by eruptions between 1963 and 1967. Seen from the sea, its dark slopes and low cliffs show how quickly the North Atlantic is already reshaping this new land.

The island is a strictly protected nature reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Landing, diving and disturbance are prohibited without research permission, preserving Surtsey as a rare natural laboratory for the study of colonisation by plants, birds and other life. Expedition travelers experience it only as a weather-dependent sail-past; distance, visibility and sea conditions determine the view, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Animals in Heimaey

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.

Atlantic Puffin

Northern Fulmar