Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar)

The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, are a volcanic archipelago off Iceland's south coast, with the inhabited island of Heimaey reached by the Herjolfur ferry from Landeyjahofn. The drive from Reykjavik to the harbour is about 130 km and takes roughly 1 hour 45 minutes, followed by a crossing of about 35 minutes. Sailings run several times daily but can be cancelled in rough weather, so travellers should verify the schedule and book on herjolfur.is. The ferry costs roughly ISK 2,500 per adult each way, and a self-drive day with the ferry costs about ISK 8,000 to 12,000, while guided tours from Reykjavik cost ISK 25,000 to 35,000 per person. Heimaey was the site of the 1973 Eldfell eruption, which buried part of the town and nearly closed the harbour. The Eldheimar museum displays a house excavated from the ash, and a trail climbs Eldfell for views over the island, taking an hour or two. In summer, the cliffs around the island host one of the world's largest Atlantic puffin colonies, with the birds nesting from about May to August, and visitors can spot them from walking paths near Stórhöfði and the south end. Boat trips around the sea cliffs and caves, the Sea Life Trust beluga whale sanctuary and the Sprangan cliff-jumping area are further options. A typical plan boards an early ferry, tours the museum and climbs Eldfell in the morning, eats in the harbour restaurants and cafes, and takes a boat or walks to see puffins before the evening ferry. Winter sailings are fewer and weather is rougher, so the trip is best from May to August. Food options in the town include seafood restaurants, bakeries and cafes near the harbour. Windproof clothing is useful because the island is exposed to the open Atlantic.