Westman Islands

Westman Islands

The Westman Islands are a volcanic archipelago located off the southern coast of Iceland. They were first discovered about 1,000 years ago by Norse Vikings who brought Irish slaves with them. The archipelago consists of 14 small islands, covering a total area of approximately 21 square kilometers.

The islands are rugged and barren, with rocky landscapes dominating the scenery. The only inhabited island is the largest one — Heimaey, which is home to the town of Vestmannaeyjar. Countless storms and relentless ocean waves have carved out the steep cliffs of the Westman Islands. These weathered, inaccessible cliffs serve as a safe habitat for thousands of Atlantic puffins.

A volcanic island located off the coast of Iceland, also the southernmost point of the country. It was formed by an underwater volcanic eruption at a depth of 130 meters and emerged from the sea on November 14, 1963. The volcanic activity continued until June 5, 1967, when the island reached its maximum size of 2.7 square kilometers. Since then, erosion by wind and waves has gradually reduced its size, and by 2002, its area was 1.4 square kilometers.

Westman Island

Must-visit reason: Iceland’s most spectacular volcanic archipelago

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Iceland[Iceland]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Southern Region [Suðurland Region]