Discover the Natural Landscapes of the Westman Islands

Iceland’s natural landscapes are a reason why so many tourists visit. The Westman Islands are no exception, promising a variety of unspoilt panoramas – all different, yet each beautiful. Before you set out on your ATV to take a closer look, let’s outline what you can expect to see.

Volcanic cones

Helgafell and Eldfell are the two cones that are easily accessible from the town. These twin volcanoes shelter Heimaey’s harbour and this is encouraging vegetation to colonise the area. In summer, this part of the island is blanketed by a carpet of purple lupines; the colour contrasts starkly with the reddish and grey tones of the rock. Eldfell (Fire Mountain) was created more than 50 years ago, yet still retains some warmth – this is most evident after a snowfall. Eldfell is a highlight of our ATV Volcano Tour.

A magical valley

Herjólfsdalur takes on the form of a natural amphitheatre, lined by rocks on all sides – it’s actually an ancient collapsed volcanic crater. Heavily faulted, they contrast with the grassy slopes as you approach. Very occasionally, you might also experience a very unusual phenomenon, a fog waterfall; in Icelandic it’s called the dalalæða. As you hike along the ridge, it’s not hard to see why this place makes such an ideal spot for the annual Þjóðhátíð festival, a Westman Islands gathering that has been held since 1874.  

Remote beaches

There aren’t many beaches in the Westman Islands, whose shoreline is characterised mostly by steep, rocky cliffs. But in places you’ll find bays in which sand can become trapped, and these isolated beaches are a real treat to visit. Some are exquisite, like Stafsnes tucked away in a secluded spot in the north west of the island. Meanwhile others have a story to tell, such as Prestvik beach, where a stricken fishing ship called Pelagus came to grief, as you’ll find out on one of our ATV tours.

The Stórhöfði peninsula

Stórhöfði couldn’t be more of a contrast to these sheltered spots. Wild and windy, this exposed peninsula is home to an enormous colony of puffins, which arrive in spring each year to mate and rear their chicks. If you’re here before the pufflings fledge and the birds depart back to the ocean, our ATV tours are the ideal means to get there. Park up and as our guide explains a bit about these funny birds, nicknamed the clowns of the sea, you can watch their antics.

Heimaklettur

The name Heimaklettur means “home rock” and this is one of the most iconic landscapes in the Westman Islands. Rising 283 metres above sea level it is the islands’ highest mountain, formed during the last Ice Age. Sheep graze on the grass here year-round. It’s a difficult hike requiring ladders and chains – as well as a head for heights – but impressive if you’re capable. From the top on a clear day, the views not only of Heimaey but also across to the mainland are breathtaking. But even admiring Heimaklettur itself from the harbour is a must for visitors.

Coastal scenery

Wave action has sculpted the volcanic rock of the Westman Islands, creating steep cliffs and sea caves. On a boat trip you can access a cave called Klettshellir, as your guide will demonstrate its splendid acoustics. One of the most famous landmarks is Elephant Rock, which you can admire during our Volcanic Vistas and Puffin Paradise ATV tour. It looks like a pachyderm with its trunk down, drinking from the water. Seals, dolphins and whales, as well as a plethora of seabirds, are frequently sighted close to the Westman Islands.

Created by volcanic activity and shaped by the ocean, the striking natural landscapes of the Westman Islands are a must for visitors. Whether you’re off-roading over lava trails, gazing out over the sea or chuckling at the antics of those cute puffins, taking an ATV tour with us in this wonderful place is likely to be a standout highlight of your Icelandic holiday.