Best of the Westman Islands

A rocky archipelago off the south coast, the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic) were formed by volcanoes that began erupting some 11,000 years ago, and the island chain still bears vestiges from its fiery past. You can walk the lava flows on Heimaey, the archipelago’s only inhabited island, and take in wildlife-watching opportunities on land and sea. The boat trip is reason enough to venture to this remote corner of Iceland, as you’ll have fine views over the islands and unique perspectives of the glacier-dotted highlands along the mainland. 

If you visit from late April through August, you can get insight into Iceland’s best-loved bird. The islands are home to the world’s largest puffin colony, with over one million breeding here during the warmer months. Boat tours, kayaking trips and guided walks offer prime viewing opportunities. Other island adventures include hiking to the top of the Eldfell volcano and looking for massive marine mammals in the Beluga Whale Sanctuary.