If you’ve ever been in awe of nature’s sculptures, this Icelandic wonder will surely capture your attention. Located on Heimaey, the largest island of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) archipelago, Elephant Rock resembles an elephant’s head and trunk. This geological formation is made of basalt columns, which form unique shapes when lava cools. The shape was probably sculpted by volcanic eruptions from the Eldfell Volcano, including one in 1973.
The History
The Elephant Rock in Iceland is a unique natural wonder that resembles a massive elephant buried in the sea. It was sculpted by volcanic eruptions that expanded the island of Heimaey. The rock is made of basalt, meaning lava has cooled down. The most popular theory is that it was formed during an eruption of the Eldfell volcano in 1973, which caused severe damage to the island.
Regardless of its unique form, the Elephant Rock is one of the most impressive sights you’ll see in Iceland. It’s a must-visit for anyone planning an adventure to the Westman Islands. The archipelago comprises 15 islands, but the only inhabited one is Heimaey. It’s located on the country’s south coast and is a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike.
You can reach the island by renting a car and driving to Landeyjahofn Harbor, about two hours from Reykjavik. Another option is to fly, which may be a better choice for those who want to save time. It takes only about 20 minutes to fly from Reykjavik to Vestmannaeyjar.
The Unique Form
Elephant Rock is a vast, naturally-formed rock formation that appears to be an elephant taking a drink from the sea. Its resemblance to the largest land mammal on Earth has amazed and surprised people worldwide. Some even believe that humans carved the shape for artistic reasons. It would certainly be impressive if this were true, but the truth is that this incredible rock formation came into existence entirely naturally.
The rock is located on Heimaey, the most oversized island in the Westman Islands archipelago off Iceland’s south coast. The rocky island is home to many breathtaking natural wonders, but Elephant Rock has stolen the show. The rock’s elephantine appearance is thanks to its unique texture, which gives it a wrinkled appearance similar to the skin of a real elephant.
Another reason the rock looks so authentic is that it is surrounded by rugged sea cliffs, which adds to its realistic appearance. Some people have also claimed that the shape resembles the famous fictional creature Cthulhu, further adding to its appeal.
Consider booking a tour of the island to see the fantastic rock formations. The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is ideal for boat and air tours. In addition to seeing the spectacular Elephant Rock, you can enjoy the local cuisine at a restaurant on the island and see the puffins in their natural habitat.
The Location
In a land of volcanic rock formations, one that resembles an elephant sticking its trunk in the ocean is bound to stand out. That’s precisely what you will find on the island of Heimaey in the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) archipelago. This is the only inhabited island in the group, home to some unique natural phenomena.
But the elephant rock is arguably its biggest attraction, as it looks incredibly realistic and has been compared to both Cthulhu and an actual elephant by fans. Despite this, it wasn’t sculpted by humans. It was likely formed during a volcanic eruption by the Eldfell Volcano, which has erupted many times and is still active today.
The rock is shaped so well because it consists of basalt, giving the figure wrinkled skin quite similar to real elephants. It also has a gray color and texture that adds to the overall appearance. It isn’t hard to see why this is such a captivating sight.
You can visit the Elephant Rock on your own if you have a car and want to travel from Reykjavik. Otherwise, you can join a tour of the island and stop by this incredible formation. The best way to do this is to take the ferry from either Landeyjahofn or Thorlakshofn and then book a tour to get you around the island.
The Photos
It is a breathtaking natural wonder that can make your jaw drop. It is almost as if someone went out and carved an elephant into the cliff face, but in reality, it’s more like Mother Nature did it herself. Local legends say it is the remains of an elephant that got too much sun and turned to stone, but most geologists believe it was formed during one of Heimaey’s many volcanic eruptions.
Iceland has stunning rock formations shaped by years of volcanic eruptions. This is especially true of the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) archipelago, dubbed “the Pompeii of the North.” The last volcanic eruption in this region was in 1973 when the Eldfell volcano erupted. During that time, a portion of the sea cliff on Heimaey was shaped to resemble the head of an elephant sticking its trunk in the water, earning it the name Elephant Rock.
The resemblance between the rock and an elephant is even more striking when it’s seen from above. A helicopter tour is a great way to get an aerial view of the attraction and capture its beauty and unique form.
Suppose you want to see this spectacular natural wonder for yourself. Visit during the summer when extended daylight allows more time to enjoy the island. And while you’re there, remember to try some of the unique food on the island, such as Plokkfiskur (fish stew) or smoked puffin!