Top Things to do in Heimaey Island
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Things to do in Heimaey Island, South Region: The Best Museums
The largest and only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar (Westmann Isles) group off Iceland’s southwest coast, Heimaey is home to just under 5,000 people. It came to international attention in 1973, when the lava flow from a nearby volcanic eruption nearly destroyed the town. Swimming, hiking, golfing, sailing, horseback riding and bird and whale watching are just some of the popular activities at Heimaey. Passage from the mainland takes about three hours by ferry or about half an hour by air.
Restaurants in Heimaey Island
1. SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 226 reviews
Experience Little Grey and Little White’s journey to Iceland and get up close to live puffins and local sea creatures! The Sea Life Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary is the world's first whale sanctuary, home to two beluga whales; Little White and Little Grey. In spring 2020, the two belugas will move to their sea sanctuary home in nearby Klettsvik Bay. The Sea Life Trust Visitor Centre located in Vestmannaeyjar Harbour opened in April 2019, relocating the former Saeheimar Aquarium and Puffin rescue centre. The centre includes information and displays relating to Little White and Little Grey's epic journey from China to Iceland, as well as a local species aquarium and resident rescued puffins. As a non-profit centre, all ticket sales support the best possible care for Little White and Little Grey and the other animals in our care.
Reviewed By MikeyMikeymoto - Prague, Czech Republic
We were lucky enough to see the 2 Beluga whales in their new home in a sea cove about 5 min by boat from the harbour. Our guide was great and told us everything about the whales and the sanctuary. Our ticket included entry to the sea life trust centre which is by the harbour. There you can find nice exhibits about the whales and can see aquariums and rescued puffins
2. Landlyst Museum
3. Eldheimar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 387 reviews
The exhibition focuses on the 1973 volcanic eruption in Vestmannaeyjar, without a doubt one of Iceland's biggest natural disaster. Visitors get a glimpse into peoples lives on Heimaey before the eruption that would change their lives forever. The people of Heimaey had to leave their homes in the middle of the night and evacuate the island, many of them never saw their homes or any of their belongings ever again.
Reviewed By easybicycletouring - Toronto, Canada
We took the ferry to the Westman Island (and Vestmannaeyjar) and parked a few blocks from the terminal. A set of stairs on the east side led us up passing some displays which explained it last erupted in the 1990's and how thermal energy has helped the town. The path up is gradual as you take a semi-circular walk over the red ash to the top. From there you can see other islands and the mainland of Iceland in the distance. Easy walk with amazing view.
4. Sagnheimar Folk Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Sagnheimar is the Folk Museum of Vestmannaeyjar, a new museum built on old traditions. In addition to the many artifacts housed there, today's technology gives the history and culture a new dimension. While the adults are learning about the stories of fishing, cliff hunting, the Eldfell eruption of 1973, and the Algerian pirate raid of 1627, the children can dress themselves in pirate costumes and search for hidden treasure in the pirate cave. Displays and exhibits showing the deep connection with the Mormons, the colorful sports history of the island, an old radio where you can listen to stories of life at sea and unbelievable tales of heroism and rescues, a "Festival" tent where the islanders entertain during the annual "Festival" can also be investigated.
