Our second stop – Eldheimar Museum. Is located in the town of Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) in Iceland. The museum is dedicated to the volcanic eruption that occurred on the island of Heimaey in 1973, which led to the evacuation of the entire population. Eldheimar Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the eruption, its impact on the community, and the subsequent recovery and rebuilding efforts. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts recovered from the eruption site, and personal stories from residents who experienced the event. Visitors can also explore a section of the town that was buried under volcanic ash and preserved as a reminder of the disaster. Eldheimar Museum provides a fascinating and educational experience for those interested in geology, history, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of natural disasters.

In 1973, Heimaey faced a dramatic event when the Eldfel volcano erupted, unleashing its fury for nearly half a year. Though houses were destroyed and residents were evacuated to the main island, fortunately, no one was harmed. With the heroic efforts of rescuers and firefighters, the lava was cooled using ocean water. As a result, a new landmass emerged from beneath the waves, which we’ll have the opportunity to witness during our tour.

Stafkirkjan, also known as the Stave Church, is a historic wooden church located in the town of Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) in Iceland. The church is a replica of the original Stafkirkja, which was destroyed during the volcanic eruption in 1973. The reconstruction of Stafkirkjan was completed in 1998, using traditional Icelandic building techniques and materials.

Beautiful view on cliffs, where we can see local birds and also puffins.

Prepare to be amazed by the extraordinary Elephant Rock, a peculiar formation resembling an elephant. We’ll venture to the southernmost tip of the island, where, weather permitting, we’ll catch a glimpse of the youngest land in the vicinity—the island of Surtsey. This piece of land emerged from the ocean’s depths a mere half-century ago due to a series of volcanic eruptions. In 2008, Surtsey earned its rightful place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, solidifying its significance as the youngest land on Earth. A hike through the stunning Herjolfsdalur valley will take us to the restored Viking houses, providing a glimpse into the island’s early settlers.

In Herjólfsdalur valley in the Westman Islands in South Iceland, you will find a turf and lava rock house that blends in perfectly with the landscape.

View on Surtsey Island (formed at the end of the 20th century, the youngest land)