Exploring the Wild Beauty of the Westman Islands

Chasing Giants and Beacons in the Westman Islands

Today was a day of exploration and wonder here in the Westman Islands. Lena and I set out to discover more of what this incredible archipelago has to offer, from its dramatic landscapes to its unique culinary scene. It's amazing how much beauty and history is packed into these small islands. As a software developer, I often find myself lost in lines of code, but these past few days, I've been happily lost in the natural wonders of Iceland.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Geysir Glima restaurant. It's a bit confusing, because it seems to be located on the mainland, not on the Westman Islands. However, the restaurant did a good job of showcasing local ingredients, so I was happy. After breakfast, we set off to explore the island. First on our list was the Heimaey Lighthouse. The drive there was scenic, with stunning views of the coastline. As we approached the lighthouse, I couldn't help but think about its history. Established in 1939, it has been guiding ships through these perilous waters for decades. It's more than just a navigational aid; it's a symbol of Iceland's maritime heritage.


Discover the stunning Heimaey Lighthouse, a scenic gem in the Westman Islands, where breathtaking coastal views meet Icelandic maritime history.

The lighthouse itself is a striking structure, standing tall against the dramatic cliffs. We climbed to the top, and the panoramic views were simply breathtaking. The rugged coastline, the vast ocean, and the surrounding islands created a vista that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was particularly captivated by the way the light played off the landscape. She snapped dozens of photos, trying to capture the essence of the scene. I am always amazed by her ability to find beauty in the simplest of things.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the stories etched into its rocks and seas.

After soaking in the views from the lighthouse, we headed to our next destination: Elephant Rock. This natural rock formation has become an iconic symbol of the Westman Islands, and I was eager to see it for myself. As we approached the coastline, the rock came into view, and I have to admit, it was even more impressive than I had imagined. The basalt rock formation truly resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the ocean. It’s hard to believe that this is a natural formation, sculpted by volcanic activity and erosion over thousands of years.


Explore the breathtaking Elephant Rock in Iceland's Westmanjar archipelago, a stunning natural wonder perfect for photography and outdoor adventures.

We learned that Elephant Rock is believed to have been formed during one of Mt. Eldfell's many eruptions. It's a testament to the geological forces that have shaped these islands. According to local folklore, the rock was once a real elephant enchanted or punished by the gods. Another legend says that human hands may have carved the elephantine shape, creating a work of art to honor the island’s heritage. I like the first story better.

We spent a good hour just admiring Elephant Rock from different angles, trying to capture its unique beauty in photographs. Lena pointed out the basalt columns that give the rock its leathery texture, adding to the illusion of an elephant's skin. It's amazing how nature can create such intricate and lifelike formations.

After our visit to Elephant Rock, we were both feeling quite hungry, so we decided to head into town for lunch. We chose Tanginn, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant is family-friendly and has a comfortable design with slate and wood, offering picturesque views of the ocean. I ordered the catch of the day, which was a perfectly grilled cod, while Lena opted for a modern summer salad. Both dishes were delicious, and the ingredients tasted incredibly fresh. I am always impressed by the quality of the food here in Iceland.


Discover Tanginn: Experience Authentic Icelandic Cuisine Amidst Stunning Coastal Views in Vestmannaeyjar.

The staff at Tanginn were friendly and accommodating, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. We learned that Tanginn is known for its commitment to sustainability, using seasonal produce and supporting local farmers and fisheries. It's great to see restaurants embracing sustainable practices, aligning with my own values of responsible tourism.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to do some shopping before dinner. We stopped by Runes of Iceland, a charming gift shop in Vestmannaeyjabær. The shop features a collection of Icelandic souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and natural beauty of the island. I was immediately drawn to the unique handmade items, from traditional crafts to contemporary artwork. It’s the perfect place to find a special memento of our journey.


Explore Runes of Iceland, where unique handmade gifts and souvenirs capture the essence of Iceland's rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Lena and I spent a good amount of time browsing the shop, admiring the intricate designs and craftsmanship. I was particularly interested in the locally crafted jewelry, while Lena was drawn to the beautiful prints showcasing Iceland's stunning landscapes. We ended up buying a few small gifts for our friends and family back in Berlin, as well as a couple of keepsakes for ourselves. I picked up a small rune stone, hoping it would bring me some luck in my coding projects.

As evening approached, we made our way to Slippurinn for dinner. This family-run restaurant is located near the harbor, in an old concrete house built in 1912. The building used to host Magni machine work for the boats in the shipyard. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the restaurant's commitment to local and seasonal ingredients.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine with local ingredients at Slippurinn in Vestmannaeyjabær - a culinary gem with stunning ocean views.

Slippurinn is known for its inventive and visually stunning dishes, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the surrounding landscape. The kitchen is run by chef Gísli Mattías Auðunsson, who is passionate about using only the best ingredients in season. We started with a couple of appetizers, including a delicious seaweed salad and some freshly baked bread with local butter. For our main courses, I ordered the Icelandic lamb, while Lena chose the locally caught fish. Both dishes were expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The lamb was tender and succulent, while the fish was fresh and perfectly seasoned.

During our meal, we chatted with the staff and learned more about the restaurant's history and philosophy. They explained that Slippurinn is committed to sustainability, foraging the island for wild herbs and seaweeds and working closely with local producers, fishermen, and farmers. It's inspiring to see a restaurant so dedicated to its community and its environment.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the incredible day we had experienced. From the panoramic views at Heimaey Lighthouse to the unique beauty of Elephant Rock and the delicious cuisine at Tanginn and Slippurinn, the Westman Islands had truly captured our hearts. It's a place where nature, history, and culture come together in perfect harmony.

As we head into tomorrow, we plan to visit Eldheimar and the Landlyst Museum. I'm particularly interested in Eldheimar, as I want to learn more about the volcanic history of the islands. I'm also looking forward to trying Ísey Skyr Bar for breakfast, Pizzagerðin for lunch, and Canton- Chinese for dinner. And of course, we'll have to make a stop at Lundinn (Original Puffin Bar) for a taste of the local nightlife.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about the words of H.P. Lovecraft, who said, “The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown.” Exploring the Westman Islands, with its volcanic landscapes and unpredictable weather, can certainly evoke a sense of the unknown. But it's also an opportunity to confront those fears and discover the beauty and resilience that lies beneath the surface.

These islands have a way of reminding you that life is an adventure, and that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you never expect. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Lena, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings.

I wonder if I can convince Lena to get a rune tattoo tomorrow? I saw something about that in IcelandMag, and it sounds like a great way to remember our trip.

Until tomorrow,
Jan