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Snæfellsnes National Park adventures

Snæfellsnes National Park Adventures

Snæfellsnes National Park is a diverse natural preserve on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland, famed for its volcanic landscapes, glaciers, dramatic coastlines, and rich wildlife.

42,000
Acres Protected
30+
Miles of Trails
100,000+
Annual Visitors
2001
Year Established

About Snæfellsnes National Park

Snæfellsnes National Park
 

Snæfellsnes National Park is located on the western tip of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula and covers an area of approximately 170 square kilometers. The park's centerpiece is Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-capped volcano that rises 1,446 meters above sea level and inspired Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." The park's geography includes lava fields, black sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and basalt columns, creating a striking blend of geological formations shaped by volcanic and glacial activity. Diverse wildlife inhabits the park, including seals, Arctic foxes, and numerous seabird species. The park's coastal waters are known for rich marine life, and whale watching tours often depart from nearby towns.

Historically, the area has been inhabited for centuries and holds cultural significance tied to Icelandic folklore and sagas. Visitors can experience a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and exploring lava tubes. Some of the most notable landmarks besides Snæfellsjökull include Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach, the fishing village of Arnarstapi with its dramatic sea cliffs, and the volcanic crater Saxhóll. The park offers accessible trail systems and viewpoints, providing visitors a chance to experience the remote beauty and unique geology of Iceland's west coast. The combination of natural diversity, history, and recreational opportunity makes Snæfellsnes National Park a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights

Highlight

Snæfellsjökull Glacier and Volcano - iconic glacier-capped peak

Highlight

Djúpalónssandur Beach - black pebble beach with boatwreck remnants

Highlight

Arnarstapi Cliffs - dramatic basalt cliffs with abundant seabird colonies

Highlight

Vatnshellir Cave - accessible lava tube showcasing volcanic geology

Notable Natural Features

Snæfellsjökull

A glacier-covered stratovolcano and Iceland’s westernmost glacier, it towers at 1,446 meters and dominates the park's landscape.

Djúpalónssandur Beach

A black pebble beach featuring dramatic rock formations and remnants of a 1948 shipwreck.

Vatnshellir Lava Cave

A 8,000-year-old lava tube accessible by guided tours, revealing subterranean volcanic formations.