Heimaey Island (Iceland, Westman Islands)

Heimaey Island is the largest in Iceland's Vestmannaeyjar archipelago (Westman Islands), as well as the most populated island off mainland Iceland. The isle covers a total area of approx 13 km2 (5 mi2) and has population around 4,500.

Heimaey is located approx 7 km (4 mi) 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 Eldfell Volcano's eruption. It threatened to close the town's harbour - main income source for the island. To prevent further damages, an operation was conducted - seawater 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 colored 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.

Cruise ships to Heimaey Island dock (anchor) at Vestmannaeyjar - town and archipelago off Iceland's south coast.