Heimaey: The Gem of the Westman Islands
Discover Heimaey, the enchanting island of the Westman archipelago, famed for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant wildlife.
A brief summary to Heimaey
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Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands, is a captivating destination that boasts breathtaking landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. With its rugged cliffs and lush green hills, visitors are treated to stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean. The island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including puffins, which nest in the cliffs during the summer months. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this remote environment. The cultural heritage of Heimaey is equally intriguing, shaped by its fishing industry and the infamous volcanic eruption of 1973, which led to the evacuation of its residents. Today, the island is a vibrant community where you can explore the local museums that recount its storied past, including the Eldheimar Volcano Museum. This engaging venue offers insight into the eruption that reshaped the island and its impact on the community. Heimaey is also an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Whether you're hiking up to the crater of Eldfell Volcano for panoramic views or taking a boat tour around the island to explore its sea caves and abundant marine life, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy. Visitors can also indulge in fresh seafood caught right from the surrounding waters, making for an authentic culinary experience. With its rich history, spectacular landscapes, and thriving wildlife, Heimaey is a destination that promises unforgettable memories for every tourist.
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the best chance to see puffins nesting.
- Take a guided boat tour to explore the island's stunning sea caves and cliffs.
- Don't miss the Eldheimar Volcano Museum for an in-depth look at the island's volcanic history.
- Try local seafood dishes at one of the island's quaint restaurants for a taste of the ocean.
- Hike to the summit of Eldfell Volcano for breathtaking views of the island and surrounding waters.
Getting There
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Car
From Þórsmörk, drive back to the main road (F249) and head towards the town of Hvolsvöllur. There are no direct roads to Heimaey from Þórsmörk, so you will need to take a ferry. Continue on F249 until you reach the intersection with Route 1 (the Ring Road). Turn left onto Route 1 and follow it to the town of Landeyjahöfn, which is approximately a 1 hour and 30-minute drive. Here, you will find the ferry terminal for Heimaey. The ferry ride to Heimaey takes about 30 minutes. Tickets for the ferry can be purchased at the terminal or online in advance, costing around 5,000 ISK for adults and 2,500 ISK for children.
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Public Transportation
To reach Heimaey from Þórsmörk using public transport, first, you need to take a bus to Hvolsvöllur. Look for the bus service operated by Strætó, which runs from Þórsmörk to Hvolsvöllur. This journey will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Hvolsvöllur, you will need to switch to a bus that takes you to Landeyjahöfn. The bus service to Landeyjahöfn typically aligns with ferry schedules, so confirm the times in advance. After arriving at Landeyjahöfn, board the ferry to Heimaey, which takes around 30 minutes. Make sure to have your ferry tickets ready; they can be purchased at the terminal or online.
Attractions Nearby to Heimaey
Landmarks nearby to Heimaey
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Visit Westman Islands Tours and Packages
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Helgafell
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Höllin í Vestmannaeyjum
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Framhaldsskólinn í Vestmannaeyjum
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Landa Church
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Sjúkrahús vestmannaeyjar
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Tröllkonan - (Ásmundur Sveinsson)
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VikingTours
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The New Post Office
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The Brothers Brewery
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Islands Inn
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Kráin - Local Restaurant
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Þórsvöllur tjaldsvæði
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Canton- Chinese
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Volcano ATV