Rocher de l'éléphant

Elephant Rock is a natural basalt formation on the western coast of Heimaey, the main inhabited island of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) archipelago. The cliff face has been sculpted by wave erosion and weathering into a silhouette that strikingly resembles an elephant lowering its trunk to drink from the sea — a resemblance so clear that it requires no imagination to appreciate. The formation is one of the most photographed features of Heimaey and has become an unofficial symbol of the island’s dramatic volcanic coastline.

The best views of Elephant Rock are obtained from boat tours that circumnavigate Heimaey’s coastline, allowing visitors to see the full profile of the elephant shape from the water. The island’s coastal hiking trails also provide elevated angles from the hillsides above. Heimaey itself is a fascinating destination beyond the rock — the 1973 Eldfell volcanic eruption that nearly buried the island is well documented at the excellent Eldheimar museum, and the Westman Islands puffin colonies are among the largest in the world.

Heimaey is reached by a 35-minute ferry from Landeyjahöfn on the South Coast, or by a short flight from Reykjavík. The island is accessible year-round, though the ferry can be affected by rough weather. Boat tours around the island depart from the harbour in summer months.