Do you have plans to visit the most beautiful places in Iceland? Stopping by at the Westman Islands should be on your list when visiting Iceland as one of the most beautiful islands in Iceland. I believe you are among travellers who don't know the best way to get to Westman island. The information here is crucial if you are unsure of the best way to get to the Westman Islands Ferry or how much time you should expect to drive there. You can quickly drive from Reykjavík to Landeyjarhofn ferry station in less than 2 hours. Still, knowing the directions to drive and the beautiful views you meet on your way is mandatory. This helps in planning the perfect tour before sailing on the most beautiful welcoming harbour in the world, in our opinion.
Driving around Iceland can be tricky because you may not know the directions as a visitor. Iceland has one main road called Road 1, or Icelandic ring road, which goes around the island. The ring road is 1,332 kilometres (828 miles). You need to know the right directions to avoid getting confused while driving on the ring road as it is circular. Below is a detailed direction on the ring road.
The right way is the south coast, which will lead you to Raudavatn lake in Reykjavík on your way to Selfoss town. After a 45 mins drive from Reykjavik, you'll get to the next town, Hveragerdi. The town is small with a giant ice cream factory and some hot springs, which is very popular with our guests. A popular hiking trail is along the valley, with hiking of about 3 km/ 1.8 miles that takes 45-60 minutes each way. You can as well have your bath in the warm Geothermal river.
After 20 mins drive from Reykjavik, you'll get to Selfoss, the biggest town on the south coast. You can take a little time to grab a bite and explore the town. Don't get carried away because you still have a ferry trip to Westman Island.
The next town is Hella, and it is an excellent place for some coffee or energy drink. You can take a grand tour of the Caves of Hella when entering the town. It takes around an hour to explore the caves found underneath the town.
The next 15 minutes drive from Hella leads you to the next town, Hvolsvollur. If you are ahead, you could look at the art Café Eldstó for some pottery or visit the ice-cream store Valdis. You can also visit the service station in Hvolsvollur, where you will probably see some natives from the Westman Islands having a cup of coffee and waiting to drive the rest to the Westman Island Ferry. From the town Hvolsvollur to the Ferry station in Landeyjarhofn, it’s just a 25 minutes drive.
Many people visiting the Westman Islands also drop by Seljalandsfoss waterfall before or after their visit. The waterfall drops 60 meters / 200 feet, and you can walk behind it and get the water in your face, a truly fantastic feeling. You'll enjoy your waterfall moment more if you put on your hiking shoes and raincoat before walking behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
It’s 25 minutes From Hvolsvollur town to Seljalandsfoss waterfall with an extra 15 minutes to the ferry station.
Your Next stop is Landeyjarhofn, the Westman Island Ferry station! You get here 30 minutes before the departure time. You can book the ticket ahead. The car park of the ferry station is free, and it has enough space if you decide to leave your car behind. If you choose to take your car along, you might have difficulties because the ferry is usually fully booked, especially in the high season. The Westman Island Ferry station is a short walk to the centre of the town. You get to see the bike rental service, the sightseeing tour, and boat your offices if you like to add to your visit.
The ferry's name is Herjolfur, the same as the first settler in the Westman Islands. The ferry has indoor and outdoor seating, a cafeteria, and a TV corner for the kids. The crossing takes 40 minutes and is lovely sailing with a beautiful view, especially when entering the Westman Islands harbour. If the weather conditions are appalling, the sailing could be cancelled, or the harbour swapped. Cancellation or swapping rarely happens, but it is better to be aware of it. No one has regretted taking the Westman Islands Ferry because they returned home with new friends they made at the volcano island on the south coast of Iceland.
You can take a bus to the Westman Islands ferry leave from Mjódd bus station and take bus no.52 to Landeyjahofn.
When you get to Westman Island, remember that the island is small, but you still enjoy every moment. You can decide to see some puffins in the Great Cape (Stórhöfði), which is 6 km away from the ferry station, a walk of 1 hour each way. If you don't want to walk, you can rent some bikes in the Westman Islands (also book in advance) or take a taxi to Great Cape to see some puffins. The Westman Islands town is beautiful, and the view is worth it. The houses are colourful, and the locals are friendly. Do not forget to visit the museums and enjoy the delicious meals in Westman island’s restaurant.
