Stórhöfði
The southernmost headland of Heimaey, with a bird-watching hut. In summer you can get close to flocks of puffins. The headland is also home to a weather station that has recorded some of Iceland's highest wind speeds.
Stórhöfði sits at the southern tip of Heimaey and connects to the main island by a narrow isthmus. The headland has a lighthouse and a weather station that has recorded Iceland's highest wind speeds. The southern slopes and sea cliffs are a major breeding ground for puffins. The small wooden bird-watching hut nearby offers shelter from the wind, and you can use binoculars and telephoto lenses to photograph puffins taking off and landing. The evening, when they return, is the most active time. Puffin season runs from late April to mid-August. From late August, local children help rescue fledgling puffins that stray into town. The headland is about 6 km from the town center and can be reached by car, bike, or bus tour. The sea cliffs have no railings and the wind is extremely strong, so never get close to the edge.
Opening hours
Open all day (bird hide free of charge)
Nearby sights
- Landakirkja
- Helgafell
- Sagnheimar Folk Museum
- Sprangan
- Herjólfsdalur
- Eldheimar Volcano Museum
- Sea Life Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary
- Vestmannaeyjar Boat Tour