Heimaey: The Jewel of the Westman Islands
Discover Heimaey, the enchanting island rich in wildlife, stunning landscapes, and volcanic history in the heart of the Westman Islands, Iceland.
Heimaey, the largest island of the Westman Islands in Iceland, offers breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and fascinating history. Known for its volcanic origins and stunning cliffs, it is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore unique geological formations, enjoy picturesque hiking trails, and witness puffins and other seabirds in their natural habitat. With its vibrant culture and warm community, Heimaey is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable experience in Iceland.
A brief summary to Heimaey
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Local tips
- Visit during the summer months for the best wildlife viewing, especially puffins.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the island's volcanic history and geology.
- Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly even in summer.
- Try local specialties like fresh seafood at the island's restaurants.
- Explore the hiking trails early in the morning for a quieter experience.
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.
Discover more about Heimaey
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Westman Islands Tours and Packages
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife of the Westman Islands, a hidden gem off the coast of Iceland.
Helgafell
0.4 km
Explore Helgafell, Iceland's dormant volcano, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage amidst nature's wonders.
Höllin í Vestmannaeyjum
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Vestmannaeyjar at Höllin, the civic center that brings together locals and tourists in a stunning island setting.
Framhaldsskólinn í Vestmannaeyjum
0.9 km
Experience the heart of learning and community spirit at Framhaldsskólinn í Vestmannaeyjum, a vibrant school nestled in the beautiful Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.
Landa Church
1.1 km
Discover the serene Landa Church in Vestmannaeyjabær, a beautiful Christian sanctuary surrounded by Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Sjúkrahús vestmannaeyjar
1.3 km
Experience peace of mind in the Westman Islands with quality healthcare at Sjúkrahús Vestmannaeyjar, where safety meets serenity.
Tröllkonan - (Ásmundur Sveinsson)
1.3 km
Discover Tröllkonan, the iconic Troll Woman sculpture in Vestmannaeyjar, where Icelandic folklore comes to life amidst breathtaking landscapes.
VikingTours
1.4 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich culture of Iceland with Viking Tours, offering unforgettable boat and bus adventures in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.
The New Post Office
1.5 km
Experience the charm of Vestmannaeyjar at The New Post Office, your cozy holiday apartment rental in Iceland's stunning Westman Islands.
The Brothers Brewery
1.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of Iceland at The Brothers Brewery, a must-visit brewpub in the stunning Vestmannaeyjabær, perfect for craft beer enthusiasts.
Islands Inn
1.6 km
Discover the charm of Islands Inn in Vestmannaeyjabær, your perfect base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Westman Islands.
Kráin - Local Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover Kráin, a local restaurant in Vestmannaeyjabær, serving fresh Icelandic cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Þórsvöllur tjaldsvæði
1.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and community spirit at Þórsvöllur Campground in the heart of Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland.
Canton- Chinese
1.6 km
Experience the authentic flavors of China at Canton, a top-rated restaurant in Vestmannaeyjabær, Iceland, offering an exquisite dining experience.
Volcano ATV
1.7 km
Explore Iceland's stunning volcanic landscapes with thrilling ATV tours and rentals at Volcano ATV in Vestmannaeyjabær, perfect for adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sæfell
0.8 km
Explore Sæfell, a breathtaking hiking area in Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland, and discover stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and serene natural beauty.
Eldheimar
0.9 km
Discover the unique volcanic history of Iceland at Eldheimar, a captivating museum in Vestmannaeyjabær showcasing the impact of the 1973 Eldfell eruption.
Eldfell
1.0 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Eldfell Volcano in Heimaey, Iceland, where nature’s fury meets breathtaking beauty in a historical setting.
Safnahús Vestmannaeyja
1.2 km
Discover the rich history and culture of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago at Safnahús Vestmannaeyja, Iceland's cultural gem.
Sagnheimar
1.2 km
Explore Sagnheimar Museum in Vestmannaeyjabær, Iceland, to uncover the captivating history and culture of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.
Hraunkæling Memorial
1.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Hraunkæling Memorial, a tribute to nature's forces in the stunning Vestmannaeyjar, Iceland.
Vöruhúsið
1.4 km
Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Vöruhúsið in Vestmannaeyjabær, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a stunning setting.
Vestmannaeyjabær
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife of Vestmannaeyjabær, a captivating town on Iceland's Westman Islands.
Isole Vestmann
1.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Isole Vestmann, a captivating archipelago off the southern coast of Iceland.
Gott restaurant
1.5 km
Discover the culinary delights of Gott Restaurant in Vestmannaeyjar, where fresh, local ingredients meet innovative Icelandic cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Lava field
1.6 km
Discover the mesmerizing lava fields of Heimaey, a unique hiking area showcasing Iceland's stunning volcanic landscape and rich biodiversity.
The Maritime Museum of Þórður Rafn
1.6 km
Discover Iceland's maritime history at The Maritime Museum of Þórður Rafn in Vestmannaeyjabær, showcasing the sea's influence on Icelandic culture.
Vigtin bakhús
1.7 km
Experience the best of Icelandic flavors at Vigtin Bakhús, a charming bakery and coffee shop in Vestmannaeyjabær, offering delicious pastries and a cozy atmosphere.
Beautiful Puffin and Shore View
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Puffin and Shore View, a serene coastal attraction in Vestmannaeyjabær, home to vibrant puffins and stunning ocean vistas.
Beluga Whale Sanctuary
1.7 km
Discover the heartwarming world of beluga whales at the Beluga Whale Sanctuary, where conservation meets education in a stunning Icelandic setting.
Essential places to dine
Einsi kaldi restaurant
1.4 km
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Ísey Skyr Bar
1.5 km
Discover authentic Icelandic health food at Ísey Skyr Bar, where traditional skyr meets modern culinary creativity.
Tvisturinn
1.5 km
Experience delicious fast food in Vestmannaeyjar at Tvisturinn – where local flavors meet quick bites in a cozy atmosphere.
Street Food
1.5 km
Experience the best of Icelandic flavors at Street Food in Vestmannaeyjabær – where local cuisine meets fast food delight.
Ranya Kebab
1.6 km
Experience delicious kebabs at Ranya Kebab – your go-to fast food destination in Vestmannaeyjabær for flavor-packed meals.
Pizzagerðin
1.6 km
Discover the best pizza in Vestmannaeyjabær at Pizzagerðin – where local flavors meet culinary creativity!
Pitsugerdin
1.6 km
Discover the taste of authentic Icelandic pizza at Pitsugerdin in Vestmannaeyjabær - where fresh ingredients meet friendly service.
Pizza 67
1.6 km
Experience delectable pizzas in Vestmannaeyjar at Pizza 67 - where local flavor meets culinary delight.
Tanginn
1.8 km
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Boutique Hotel Anna
28.1 km
Experience exceptional dining and luxurious accommodations at Boutique Hotel Anna, where Icelandic beauty meets gourmet cuisine.
Hygge Restaurant & Bar
34.9 km
Experience the unique blend of Latin American flavors and fresh seafood at Hygge Restaurant & Bar in Hvolsvöllur.
Midgard Restaurant & Bar
35.4 km
Experience the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Midgard Restaurant & Bar—where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art.
Eldstó Art Cafe / Restaurant
35.8 km
Discover the culinary artistry at Eldstó Art Cafe / Restaurant in Hvolsvöllur - where fine dining meets local artistry amidst stunning Icelandic scenery.
Nesti Grill
35.8 km
Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Nesti Grill in Hvolsvöllur, where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Valhalla Restaurant.
35.9 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Valhalla Restaurant, where history meets delicious flavors in Hvolsvöllur.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vestmannstudio
0.8 km
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Runes of Iceland
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Runes of Iceland gift shop for unique handcrafted souvenirs and cultural treasures that embody the spirit of Iceland.
Heimadecor
1.4 km
Explore Heimadecor in Vestmannaeyjabær for authentic Icelandic gifts, crafts, and souvenirs, capturing the essence of Icelandic culture.
Kubuneh verslun
1.4 km
Explore local treasures at Kubuneh Verslun in Vestmannaeyjabær, your go-to store for authentic Icelandic souvenirs and experiences.
Icewear
1.4 km
Discover quality outdoor clothing and Icelandic wool products at Icewear in Vestmannaeyjabær, perfect for your Icelandic adventures.
Póley
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts, children's clothing, and Icelandic treasures at Póley gift shop in Vestmannaeyjabær.
Litla Skvísubúðin
1.5 km
Explore Litla Skvísubúðin in Vestmannaeyjabær for unique women's fashion that embodies the spirit of Icelandic style.
Salka Verslun
1.5 km
Explore authentic Icelandic styles at Salka Verslun, Vestmannaeyjabær’s premier clothing store, offering unique garments and local designs.
Vínbúðin Vestmannaeyjum
1.5 km
Explore Icelandic liquor culture at Vínbúðin Vestmannaeyjum, your source for local and international beverages in the heart of Vestmannaeyjar.
Okkarhekl8
1.6 km
Explore the heart of Icelandic craftsmanship at Okkarhekl8, a cozy knit shop in Vestmannaeyjabær, offering handmade wool products and unique workshops.
Penninn Eymundsson Vestmannaeyjum
1.6 km
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Húsasmiðjan
1.6 km
Explore Húsasmiðjan in Vestmannaeyjabær for unique Icelandic home goods and authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of Icelandic culture.
Bónus
1.6 km
Explore the local flavors at Bónus in Vestmannaeyjabær, your ultimate discount supermarket for groceries and Icelandic delicacies.
Grétar Þórarinsson ehf verslun og verkstæði
1.6 km
Explore the charm of Icelandic knitting at Grétar Þórarinsson ehf, a must-visit knit shop in Vestmannaeyjabær offering exquisite handmade wool products.
Krónan
1.7 km
Discover affordable shopping in Vestmannaeyjabær at Krónan, your go-to discount supermarket for local and international groceries.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Höllin
0.7 km
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Lundinn (Original Puffin Bar)
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Icelandic nightlife at Lundinn, the Original Puffin Bar in Vestmannaeyjabær, where good company and local flavors await.
Midgard Base Camp
35.4 km
Experience the essence of Icelandic adventure at Midgard Base Camp, a vibrant hub for exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Fimmvorduhals North Trailhead
48.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fimmvorduhals North Trailhead, where stunning landscapes and exhilarating hikes await in Iceland!
The Soup Company
62.6 km
Discover The Soup Company in Vik: A cozy restaurant serving delicious, locally-sourced soups that warm the heart and soul.
Restaurant Suður-Vík
62.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Icelandic cuisine at Restaurant Suður-Vík, where stunning views and exquisite dishes come together.
Kjallarinn - Cocktail Bar
62.6 km
Discover the charm of Kjallarinn Cocktail Bar in Vík, where innovative drinks meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after exploring Iceland.
Black Crust Pizzeria
62.9 km
Discover the best pizza in Vik at Black Crust Pizzeria, where unique flavors meet stunning Icelandic views.
Wok In Vík
63.0 km
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Vínbúðin
63.0 km
Explore Iceland's unique liquor culture at Vínbúðin, the state liquor store offering a taste of local and international beverages.
Ströndin • Pub
63.0 km
Discover the flavors of Iceland at Ströndin Pub in Vik, where local cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Víkurskáli
63.0 km
Discover local flavors and unique souvenirs at Víkurskáli, your ideal stop in Vík, Iceland, for an authentic shopping experience.
Hótel Vík
63.0 km
Experience comfort and local flavors at Hótel Vík, your perfect base for exploring Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Berg Restaurant
63.0 km
Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Berg Restaurant in Vík, where fresh, local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
Ice Cave Bistro
63.1 km
Experience the enchanting flavors of Iceland at Ice Cave Bistro, where local cuisine meets stunning surroundings in Vik.
