Eldfell

Eldfell is one of the clearest places in Iceland to see a volcanic landscape that formed within living memory. The eruption began unexpectedly on Heimaey in January 1973, opening a fissure beside the town and forcing almost the entire population of Vestmannaeyjar to evacuate. Activity continued for about six months. Lava and ash destroyed or buried a large part of the built-up area, changed the coastline and created the new volcanic cone now called Eldfell. Today the reddish slopes rise immediately above the town and form one of Heimaey's most popular walks. From higher ground, visitors can look across the new lava, the harbour and the older volcanic landscape of the island. The experience is especially powerful when combined with Eldheimar, where an excavated home and exhibitions explain the human side of the disaster and the return of residents after the eruption. Conditions on the exposed slopes can change quickly, so walkers should dress for wind and weather and stay on established routes.