Eldheimar: A Window into Iceland's Volcanic Past
Discover the fascinating story of the 1973 eruption at Eldheimar, a captivating museum in Vestmannaeyjabær dedicated to Iceland's volcanic history.
Eldheimar, situated in the picturesque town of Vestmannaeyjabær, serves as a remarkable museum that delves into the volcanic history of the region, particularly the significant eruption of 1973. This museum not only highlights the devastating effects of the eruption on the community but also showcases the resilience and spirit of the local inhabitants who rebuilt their lives amidst the ash and lava. The thoughtfully curated exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays that offer visitors a chance to experience the eruption's impact first-hand, making it an educational and emotionally resonant visit. One of the museum's standout features is the preserved house, which was buried under volcanic ash, providing a unique glimpse into the lives of the residents before the disaster struck. As you wander through the museum, engaging narratives and multimedia presentations will guide you through the timeline of events that forever altered the landscape of Heimaey Island. Eldheimar emphasizes not just the geology, but also the human stories behind the eruption, making it an essential stop for those looking to understand the cultural history of Iceland. Visitors can also enjoy the museum's cozy café, where you can relax and reflect on your experience while sampling local treats. Eldheimar is open daily, making it a convenient addition to your itinerary when exploring the magical Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. Plan your visit around the museum's operating hours to make the most of your journey through this fascinating chapter of Iceland's natural history.
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds and have a more personal experience with the exhibits.
- Check for guided tours that may provide deeper insights into the exhibits and the eruption's history.
- Don't miss the café for a taste of local treats after exploring the museum.
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and absorb the rich history presented.
A brief summary to Eldheimar
- Gerðisbraut 10, Vestmannaeyjabær, 900, IS
- +3544882700
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, you will need to reach the town of Vestmannaeyjar. From the main road in the Eastern Region, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) towards the south. Follow Route 1 until you reach the ferry terminal at Landeyjahöfn. This is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Egilsstaðir. Here, you can catch the ferry to Vestmannaeyjar, which takes about 35 minutes. The ferry costs around 1,500 ISK (approximately $12 USD) for a one-way ticket. Once you arrive at Vestmannaeyjar, drive to Gerðisbraut 10 (Eldheimar) which is approximately a 5-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Egilsstaðir to Hvolsvöllur. This bus ride will take about 2 hours. From Hvolsvöllur, you will need to transfer to a bus that goes to Landeyjahöfn, which takes about 30 minutes. The bus fare from Egilsstaðir to Hvolsvöllur is around 3,000 ISK (approximately $24 USD). After reaching Landeyjahöfn, board the ferry to Vestmannaeyjar (cost: 1,500 ISK, approximately $12 USD). Once you arrive in Vestmannaeyjar, you can take a local taxi or walk to Gerðisbraut 10, taking about 20 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi.
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Ferry
If you are in the nearby coastal towns, you might find direct ferry services to Vestmannaeyjar. Check local ferry schedules as they may vary seasonally. The ferry ride generally takes about 35 minutes and costs around 1,500 ISK (approximately $12 USD). Upon arriving at Vestmannaeyjar, you can drive or use local transportation to reach Eldheimar located at Gerðisbraut 10.
