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Introduction to Vestmannaeyjar

The Westman Islands — called Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic — are a spectacular archipelago off the south coast of Iceland.

The archipelago's main island is Heimaey Island (literally, 'Home Island'), and it has a population of around 16,000.

Heimaey is surrounded by 14 uninhabited islands and around 30 rock stacks and skerries, which make the area rich in marine and bird life.

The Westman Islands lie off the south coast of Iceland, and in many ways, a visit here takes you back to an older Iceland, to a relaxed yet hard-working and creative community. The friendly, welcoming islanders will happily tell you about their homeland and its captivating history.

History of the Westman Islands

The Sagnheimar Museum gives visitors insight into the rich history of the islands. From their rich history in the fishing industry to the invasion of the island by pirates in the 1600s (made internationally famous by Sally Magnusson’s ‘The Sealwoman’s Gift’).

The January 1973 eruption of the Eldfell volcano is one of the largest natural disasters in Iceland's recent history, and its effects are still felt throughout the island today.

At the time, it forced all the Westman Island inhabitants to evacuate to the mainland of Iceland and some decided not to return to Heimaey once the eruption ended. By the end of the eruption, which lasted more than five months, around one-third of homes on Heimaey were covered in lava and ash, and the island had grown by 2 sq km.

Today, the Westman Islands are sometimes called the 'Pompeii of the North', and visitors can witness Icelandic nature's mighty powers by hiking up to the top of the Eldfell volcano. The Eldheimar Museum is an insightful museum on Heimaey that documents the event.

Things to do in the Westman Islands

The archipelago is a prime destination for the adventure traveler or nature enthusiast. From visiting the Beluga Whale Sanctuary to taking a boat ride out on the waters to view the puffins nesting in the cliffs, there is plenty to do as a nature lover on Vestmannaeyjar.

Those who love to stay active can enjoy the scenic views as they take a round of golf, or relax and unwind in the hot tub after a swim in the popular local swimming pool.

For some of the best views on the island, visit the Elephant Rock (a rock shaped like the head of an elephant which is located very close to the golf course), take a trip to Stórhöfði lighthouse, or hike to the top of Eldfell volcano.

If you're looking for unique activities, try these on for size: you can take the Sprangan cliff swing, take a scenic kayak tour, cycle the island from end to end, and hike the stunning lava trails.

For those who prefer to keep both feet on land, we recommend going in search of the street art by the harbor on Heimaey, visiting Pirate Beach, or exploring the many cafes, shops, and restaurants on the island.

Events and festivals

The most popular time to visit the Westman Islands is during the annual three-day Þjóðhátíð, Iceland's biggest festival, which draws around 16,000 people every year.

Held on the first weekend in August; bonfires, fireworks, and the Sunday sing-along are the highlights of the event. Every year, a song is created especially for the event, so listen out for that on the radio if you travel to Iceland around this time.

Puffin season is another very popular time for travelers to visit Heimaey. Towards the end of the season (when all the baby pufflings have been born), there is a tradition of local children collecting any stray pufflings and helping them return to the sea.

This tradition typically takes place during the nights in August and September, when these confused pufflings are distracted by the city lights and find themselves lost in the town.

How to get to the Westman Islands

When taking the ferry Herjólfur to Heimaey, travelers can choose to travel as car or foot passengers, giving them the flexibility to choose the mode of transport that suits them best.

The ferry sails multiple times every day between the mainland and Heimaey island, making it a convenient option for residents and travelers alike.

It’s also possible to take a flight to Vestmannaeyjar. Icelandair flies seasonally to the Heimaey from Reykjavík Domestic Airport.

Traveling around Vestmannaeyjar

You can rent a car, bike, or electric scooter to get around the largest of the islands, Heimaey.

The Hopp electric scooters can be found all over the island but are easiest to find in the center of the town on Heimaey.

It’s possible to explore Heimaey on foot as it is a somewhat small island, though many visitors who wish to visit the far reaches of the island find it to be most comfortable to travel by car, bike, or scooter.

Boating is the most practical way to explore Vestmannaeyjar's smaller islands. This is also a really great way of discovering more of the Westman Islands, and you can usually spot whales and seals whilst sailing between islands.