Icelandic landscapes are stunning wherever you go, yet Snæfellsnes Peninsula deserves to be singled out. You can't feel indifferent about its scenic beauty that embraces vast lava fields, soft moss, white and black sand beaches, bird nests scattered all over cliffs, trout lakes, salmon rivers, caves, waterfalls, mountains, and volcanoes.
In fact, Snæfellsnes is home to Snæfellsjökull volcano that appeared in the "Journey to the Center of the Earth," a subterranean fiction novel by Jules Verne. It's also the biggest mountain on the peninsula.
When you head out to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, make sure to check out its most famous locations. First of all, it's Snæfellsjökull National Park; small fishing villages at Hellnar, particularly the charming Arnarstapi; and 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir cave—this 200-meter-long lava path is set at 35 meters below the surface.
Although the area may be visited all year round, the best season is considered from mid-May to late September, as the roads leading to the peninsula are the most drivable during that season, and fresh green Icelandic moss also enlivens the sceneries.
Practical info
What are some notable places to see on Snæfellsnes Peninsula?
Snæfellsjökull National Park is a must-see location on the peninsula, together with its surrounding villages like Hellnar and Arnarstapi. Other notable spots include the Vatnshellir Cave, the Kirkjufell mountain and its waterfall, and Lóndrangar basalt cliffs, all of which combine to make this area an ideal stopover for visitors to Iceland. Show more
What role does Snæfellsjökull play in the novel by Jules Verne?
Snæfellsjökull, located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, serves as the entry point to a passage leading to the center of the Earth in Jules Verne's novel "Journey to the Center of the Earth." This work of fiction is renowned for its imaginative portrayal of a world beneath the surface, with the Snæfellsjökull volcano being the doorway to this subterranean realm. Show more
Where is the oldest cave situated on Snæfellsnes Peninsula?
Visitors to Snæfellsnes can explore the Vatnshellir Cave, one of the oldest lava caves on the peninsula at around 8,000 years old. Guided tours of the cave system, which spans 200 meters in length and up to 35 meters deep, are available to visitors who want to explore the depths of this historical natural wonder. Show more
Which time of the year is preferable for visiting Snæfellsnes Peninsula?
The best time to visit Snæfellsnes Peninsula is from mid-May to late September. This time offers visitors the chance to explore this area without the challenges of weather conditions and other hazards. Additionally, this period provides extended daylight hours that allow visitors to experience extraordinary sightseeing and engage in outdoor exploration. Show more
What other unique natural features can be found on the peninsula?
In addition to famous landmarks, Snæfellsnes Peninsula's natural wonders also include the Black Cave, which features sunlight that illuminates a pool of water in a small cave. There are also the two adjacent craters, Saxhóll and the Berserkjahraun lava field, which extends over 5,000 square kilometers and boasts sharp-edged rocks and hillsides as far as the eye can see. Show more
