Snæfellsjökull glacier, west Iceland

GPS POINTS N64° 49′ 0.641″ W23° 46′ 52.685″

Snæfellsjökull Glacier, west Iceland

Location: West Iceland
Directions on Google maps

There is something undeniably special about Snæfellsjökull glacier. This imposing mass of ice and snow has captured the imaginations of people for centuries, thanks to its unique location and fascinating history. The glacier sits at the foot of Mount Snæfell, one of the most popular hiking destinations in Iceland, and provides a stunning backdrop to the surrounding landscape.

Getting to Snæfellsjökull glacier is easy – it’s just a short drive from Reykjavik. Once you arrive, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two in nature. The story behind Snæfellsjökull is just as fascinating as the landscape itself. The glacier is an active volcano, having been built up through numerous eruptions during the last 800,000 years. The glacier is said to be the gateway to another world, and has been a popular destination for writers and artists over the years. For example, the glacier plays big role as the Center of the Earth in the novel Journey to the Center of the Earth (1864) by Jules Verne.

Snæfellsjökull is a part of the Snæfellsjökull National Park which was established on June 28, 2001. The Park’s purpose is to protect and conserve the areas unique landscape, indigenous plant and animal life as well as important historical relics.

At Malarrif is the Visitor Center for Snaefellsjokull National Park. It´s fun to walk around the area and explore the nature, the beach and the lighthouse.

Whether you’re looking for a unique place to hike or simply want to learn more about Iceland’s rich history, Snæfellsjökull is well worth a visit. You’re sure to fall in love with this special place.

Kirkjufell is located in the western part of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, about three hours drive from Reykjavik. The best way to get there is by car, as this will give you the most flexibility in terms of stops and attractions along the way. If you’re driving from Reykjavik, take Road One north towards Borgarnes. At the roundabout on the outskirts of town, take Road 54 towards Grundarfjörður. Switch to road 570 once you are at the crossroads to Grundarfjordur/Snæfellsjokull glacier.

Snæfellsjokull glacier is surrounded by other fantastic attractions at the Snæfellsnes peninsula. On the south coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula is a village with only a tiny black church called „Budarkirkja“. Budir sits within the Budahraun lava field, an expansive environment of torn-up earth that has grown over with grassy flora. One could easily imagine creatures from fairy tales living amongst the jagged rock formations and in the deep holes that have formed here. Visitors can walk along the fields and down to the coastline along trails that look and feel unending.

If you want to explore further, you might want to visit Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Both Hellnar and Arnarstapi are ancient fishing villages, a cluster of old houses, on the westernmost part of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Placenames in the vicinity of Arnarstapi and nearby Hellnar village are inspired by Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss, an Icelandic saga relating the story of Bárður, a half human and half ogre.

Kirkjufell mountain is another attraction worth mentioning. This beautiful mountain is one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks and can be seen in many photographs and paintings of the country.

Last but not least, Stykkishólmur is a small town located near Kirkjufell. It is a popular tourist destination, due to its charming architecture and stunning natural surroundings. There are many things to see and do in Stykkishólmur, making it the perfect place to visit on your journey around West Iceland.