Heimaklettur
About Heimaklettur
Heimaklettur is the highest mountain in Vestmannaeyjar, a 283-meter block of grass-topped cliffs on the north side of the harbor on Heimaey, off Iceland's south coast. Its sheer walls frame the narrow harbor entrance, so it is the first thing you see as the ferry swings in. The climb to the top is the island's best-known hike and also its hardest.
The Heimaklettur hike starts at the end of Eiðisvegur, the road out to the isthmus of Eiði across the harbor from town. The path is about 1.8 kilometers long and takes around an hour going up, beginning with a run of steep wooden ladders fixed to the rock. Ropes and chains help on the steepest grassy sections higher up, and at the summit there is a guest book for hikers to sign.
This is a tough climb for anyone uneasy with heights, and coming down is often trickier than going up. Ladders and grass turn slippery in rain, while gusts on the exposed upper slopes can make it unsafe, so check the forecast and save it for a dry, calm day. If you don't know the route, go with someone who does, and turn back whenever it stops feeling right.
On a clear day the summit takes in the whole town, the harbor and the dark lava of Eldfell below, with the smaller islands of the archipelago spread across the sea and mainland glaciers on the horizon. Allow about two hours for the round trip from the trailhead, plus time to sit at the top. Wear boots with good grip, and gloves make the ropes and ladders easier to hold.
The trailhead is about a 15-minute walk from the Herjólfur ferry terminal, and the crossing from Landeyjahöfn takes about 35 to 45 minutes. That makes Heimaklettur a realistic day trip from the south coast, as long as you leave enough time to get back for your sailing.
Good to know
How high is Heimaklettur?
Heimaklettur is 283 meters high, which makes it the highest mountain in the Westman Islands. It rises directly above the harbor on Heimaey.
How long does the Heimaklettur hike take?
The climb is about 1.8 kilometers and takes around an hour going up. Allow about two hours for the round trip, since the descent is slow and careful.
Is the Heimaklettur hike difficult?
Yes. It starts with steep wooden ladders and uses ropes and chains on exposed grassy slopes, so it is hard for anyone afraid of heights, and the way down is often harder than the way up.
Where does the Heimaklettur hike start?
The trail starts at the end of Eiðisvegur, on the Eiði isthmus across the harbor from town. It is about a 15-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
Can you climb Heimaklettur in rain or wind?
It is best avoided. The ladders and grass get slippery when wet, and strong gusts on the upper slopes can make the climb unsafe, so wait for a dry, calm day.
How do you get to Heimaklettur from Reykjavík?
Drive about 1 hour 45 minutes to Landeyjahöfn, take the Herjólfur ferry to Heimaey for about 35 to 45 minutes, then walk to the trailhead from the terminal.
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