Many tourist guides report Heimaey as one of the must-see attractions in Iceland. To be honest, I think there are many more interesting places to visit in this wonderful nation, but in case it happens you decide to spend sometimes in Heimaey, you'll find two main atractions.
First of all, a nice puffins colony . In Heimaey you can spot this funny birds from a short distance and you'll probably take some very nice pictures. Just remember that puffins flyes away more or less at the end of August.
The second element is the ascent to the Eldfell volcano. It is described as an impressive volcano, but it is now completely inactive, similar to the Silvestri craters on Mount Etna... not so impressive to be honest. By the way, we were led to Eldfell and rised to the peak, so let's describe this short walk.
The path starts from the Eldheimar volcanic museum , an exhibit on the 1973 eruption that destroyed a big part of the Island; a house under lava and volcanic ash has been left here as it was after the eruption to remember us the power of the volcano. On the path you'll find also many volcanic bombs .
From the ascent it is possible to look at the Island both towards the harbour and the sea panorama . Many colors here create a nice landscape : the black lava, the green of the grass, the red of the crater and the blue of the sky and sea creates this interesting puzzle.
All in all is a nice walk, but nothing you must see
Point of interest: Inactive volcano, Heimaey scenic view
Difficulty: low
Difference in height: 170
Maximum height: 220 m
Length: 3 km return trip
Duration of journey: 1-2 hours
Suggested season: Spring - Summer
Technical equipment : Not required
Difficulty: low
Difference in height: 170
Maximum height: 220 m
Length: 3 km return trip
Duration of journey: 1-2 hours
Suggested season: Spring - Summer
Technical equipment : Not required