Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Caves and volcanoes in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

This collection spans the geological diversity of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, focusing on the Snæfellsjökull volcanic system and its surrounding lava fields. It features prominent scoria craters like Saxhóll and Eldborg alongside subterranean wonders such as the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir lava tube. Visitors can explore the acoustic echoes of Sönghellir or witness the source of ancient lava flows at Rauðamelskúlur, providing a comprehensive look at Iceland's basaltic architecture and volcanic history.

Caves and Volcanoes — Map

Hafsteinn Davíðsson / CC-BY-SA

A

Saxhóll

A 100-meter high scoria crater formed approximately 3,000 years ago. A metal staircase leads to the rim, offering views of the surrounding Neshraun lava field and the Snæfellsjökull glacier.

Anjali Kiggal / CC BY-SA 4.0

B

Snæfellsjökull

Snæfellsjökull is a 700,000-year-old glacier-capped stratovolcano in western Iceland.

Vinicius Antao / CC-BY-SA

C

Vatnshellir Lava Cave

An 8,000-year-old lava tube extending 200 meters into the earth and reaching depths of 35 meters. Access is via guided tours, descending a long spiral staircase to view colorful mineral formations.

Reykholt / CC BY-SA 4.0

D

Eldborg

A symmetrical scoria crater rising 60 meters above the surrounding lava. It is the largest crater in a short fissure and can be reached via a hiking trail from Snorrastaðir.

E

Sönghellir

Known as the "Singing Cave," this site is famous for its distinct echoes. The walls feature historical inscriptions, and the cave is traditionally associated with the saga figure Bárður Snæfellsás.

F

Saxhólar

A cluster of scoria craters within the Snæfellsjökull National Park. These vents were active around 3,000 years ago, contributing to the extensive Neshraun lava field.

G

Grasholshellir

A lava cave located within the Neshraun lava field on the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

H

Draugarlág

A small cave and depression located near the base of the Snæfellsjökull glacier.

I

Kothraunskúla

A volcanic cone located near the Berserkjahraun lava field, characterized by its reddish volcanic rock.

J

Gráakúla

A volcanic crater located within the Berserkjahraun area, part of the wider Ljósufjöll volcanic system.

K

Rauðháls

A red-hued volcanic crater situated within the Ljósufjöll volcanic system on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

L

Ytri-Rauðamelskúlur

Part of a crater row in the Rauðamelsheiði area. The lava from these craters formed the nearby Gerðuberg basalt columns.

M

Syðri-Rauðamelskúlur

The southern portion of the Rauðamelskúlur crater row, contributing to the geological formations of the Rauðamelsheiði region.

N

Vatnsborg

A prominent crater located in the Neshraun lava field, near the western coastline of the peninsula.

O

Búðahellir

A lava cave in the Búðahraun lava field. The cave entrance is notable for supporting unique vegetation, including rare fern species.

P

Borgarhellir

A cave located in the Rauðamelsheiði region, historically used as a natural shelter.

Q

Vegghellir

A lava cave situated in the Rauðamelsheiði area, located in close proximity to Borgarhellir.

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Snæfellsnes Unmissables Icelandic Peaks and Calderas Waterfalls and Coastal Gems Icelandic Churches and Places of Worship Charming Accommodations Icelandic Natural Wonders