Description
Summary
Description
Book this tour and you can explore remote volcanic islands off the South Coast of Iceland. The Westman Islands have a unique history and many traditions; you won’t want to miss them on your visit to Iceland.
After being picked up in Reykjavík, your adventure will begin with a drive along the South Coast, with its spectacular and ever-changing landscape. You will be headed for Landeyjahöfn, a small harbor close to Seljalandsfoss waterfall where you will hop on the ferry to Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands.
The ferry ride will only last 30 to 40 minutes, but the views from the ferry as you approach the islands are spectacular. You will be able to spot a few different islands and will be amazed by the shapes and colors of their cliffs and rock formations.
With a population of about 4.500 people, Heimaey is the largest and the only inhabited island of the archipelago. Here a huge volcano eruption occurred in 1973, which forced the Islanders to flee and some of them never returned to their homes. The eruption of Eldfell volcano destroyed many houses and changed the shape of the islands.
Today, there exists a museum, which was built around the ruins of one of these houses that were covered by lava during the eruption. The Eldheimar museum tells the unique story of the 1973 eruption, a story of hope and determination, a story that everyone should learn when visiting these islands.
Your day will continue with a hike to the top of Eldfell volcano, from where you will have a very beautiful view of the islands and the new lava fields that were created during the last eruption. You will then drive to Stórhöfði, the windiest place in Europe, for more great views and to spot some puffins!
You will then visit Herjólfsdalur valley, the Elephant Rock, and the ruins of a typical farmhouse from the first settlers of the Westman Islands.
At the end of the day, you will take the ferry back to Landeyjahöfn harbor and drive back to Reykjavik. If there is enough time, you will pay a quick visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the way.
Explore the unique Westman islands on this amazing day tour. Check availability by choosing a date.
