Heimaey Island (Iceland)

Heimaey Island is the largest in Iceland's Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, as well as the most populated island off mainland Iceland. The isle covers a total area of approx 13 km2 (5 ml2) and has population around 4,500.

Heimaey is located approx 7 km ( ml) off Iceland's southern coast. The airport and Westman Islands Golf Club cover a considerable part of the Island. Its only settlement is Vestmannaeyjar.

• In January 1973, half of the town was destroyed by lava flow during the eruption of the Eldfell volcano. It threatened to close the town's harbour - main income source for the island. To prevent further damages, an operation was cunducted - sea water was used to cool the advancing lava, thus the harbor was saved.
• Every summer on Heimaey Iseland come to nest around 8 million puffins (seabirds with brightly coloured beaks). Millions of other seabirds migrate to the island to feed and breed.
• Heimaey is connected to mainland Iceland via Vestmannaeyjar Airport and also by a ferry.
• Most of the locals live off fishing. Only during the island's annual festival, locals are allowed to catch a few puffins and eat them - at the festival or at home.

Heimaey Island cruise terminal