Hiking the Westman Islands: Top Trails and Scenic Routes

Though it is fun to explore Iceland on a road trip, and thrilling to take an ATV or buggy tour, you’ll also want to venture out into the countryside on foot. We think the Westman Islands are the perfect location to stretch your legs on a hike. During your time on Heimaey, why not seek out some of its trails and get to know the place at a more leisurely pace? Let’s take a look at some of our favourite routes.

Heimaklettur

If it’s not too wet or windy, why not consider hiking to the top of the highest point on Heimaey, Heimaklettur? It’s not quite as much of a challenge as it once was to scale this 283 metre high peak. Ladders and chains have made the ascent safer and easier, though it’s still a daunting climb unless you’re an experienced hiker with unfenced, vertiginous paths and ledges that require a head for heights. Coming down is considered more difficult than getting to the top, so make sure the hike is within your capabilities before setting out. The views are incredible, however, so if you’re up for it, this is one hike that won’t disappoint.

Seven Peaks 

This walk is about as epic as it gets on Heimaey. Hikers loop the island, summiting a series of peaks. First up is a circuit of Stórhöfði, followed by an ascent of Sæfell. With those two under your belt it’s time to make it to the top of Helgafell. Another volcanic cone is next – Eldfell. To round off the challenge you’ll need to notch up hikes on Heimaklettur, Há and Dalfjall, before finishing up in Herjólfsdalur. Of course, a challenge such as this lends itself to a special event and that’s the case here. The Seven Peaks Walk is an annual highlight, taking place in summer. If you’re not physically fit enough to do it yourself, why not cheer on the others?

Heimaey Trail

This 20km hiking trail is the same route that participants doing the annual Puffin Run tackle, but that’s no reason for you to complete it at speed. Instead, take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way. It pretty much encompasses the whole of the island’s coast: starting at Skansinn you’ll tick off Skiphellar, head past the Sprangan and hike south of Hlíðarbrekka into Hlíðarvegur and then Herjólfsdalur. Once you reach Stórhöfði you might choose to take a breather as you watch the puffins. Eldfell and Páskahellir are two good reasons to get moving again, though you’ll want to linger at Viðlagafjöru if it’s clear enough to see over to Eyjafjallajökull. Eventually you’ll tick off the stave church, bringing this fabulous hike to its conclusion. 

Ræningjatangi – Lyngfellisdalur – Sæfell

If you don’t have the time or the energy for something as long, why not try this delightful two hour hike instead? Connecting Ræningjatangi, Lyngfellisdalur and Sæfell, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a walk with historical interest. Ræningjatangi was the place where the infamous Turkish pirates caused havoc in the 17thcentury. The residents of Heimaey had been prepared to defend themselves from an invasion by installing cannons at Skansinn but instead these abductors came ashore on the opposite side of the island. Torching homes, farms and even the church they terrified the local population before rounding up many of them. In all 242 of them were kidnapped or killed. If you sign up for our Puffins and Pirates ATV tour, the guide will tell you more of the story.

Even if you choose only to stroll around the harbour, Heimaey’s charms will be apparent when you slow down the pace. Hiking in the Westman Islands is a must, alongside more exhilarating pursuits such as RIB safaris and our ATV tours.