Eldfell

Eldfell is a volcanic cone on the island of Heimaey, the largest island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago off Iceland’s south coast, created by a major eruption in January 1973. The eruption produced a new volcanic hill and extensive lava fields that altered the island’s landscape.

A marked trail leads to the crater rim, which rises roughly 200 metres above sea level and provides panoramic views across Heimaey and the North Atlantic. The surrounding lava fields from 1973 are accessible for walks and interpretation, and signage explains the eruption’s effects on the town and harbour.

The Eldfell eruption began suddenly on 23 January 1973 and prompted the rapid evacuation of the island’s residents. The emergency response included large-scale seawater pumping to cool and divert lava flows, an intervention that helped preserve the harbour and allowed the town to be largely rebuilt.

Eldfell sits on Heimaey in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago off Iceland’s south coast; the island is reached by ferry or flight from the Icelandic mainland and the cone dominates the local landscape.

• 1973 eruption date and evacuation: Erupted suddenly on 23 January 1973, forming the new cone and forcing the near-complete evacuation of Heimaey's population of about 5,300 people.
• Harbour protection: Engineers pumped seawater to cool advancing lava flows, a large-scale intervention that helped safeguard the island's harbour.

What to See #

• Eldfell crater rim: The summit crater formed in the 1973 eruption that visitors can reach on a maintained footpath offering panoramic views over Heimaey and the surrounding archipelago.
• 1973 lava fields: Extensive 1973 lava fields and coastal deposits that cover parts of Heimaey and reshaped the island's shoreline and harbour approach; these fields are now a walking area and study site.