Snæfellsjökull: A Journey to Iceland’s Glacier of Legends

Rising majestically from the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Snæfellsjökull is one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This glacier-topped volcano has inspired writers, explorers, and travellers for generations — most famously serving as the entrance to the centre of the Earth in Jules Verne’s classic adventure novel.

Today, it continues to draw modern explorers from around the world, not just for its legends, but for its breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and sense of mystery. For travellers planning a self-drive tour of Iceland, Snæfellsjökull National Park is a must-see — and with Höldur’s trusted car hire from Reykjavík or Keflavík International Airport (KEF), it’s never been easier to experience this unforgettable corner of the country.

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The Magic of Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull sits within Snæfellsjökull National Park, one of only three national parks in Iceland and the only one that stretches from coastline to mountain peak. The park covers roughly 170 square kilometres of lava fields, cliffs, beaches, caves, and glacial slopes.

Crowning it all is Snæfellsjökull Glacier, a volcano capped with ice, rising 1,446 metres above sea level. On clear days, it’s visible even from Reykjavík — a distant white peak glowing above the western horizon.

Locals have long believed Snæfellsjökull possesses mystical energy. Whether you believe in that or not, it’s hard to deny that this landscape feels alive — a place where Iceland’s natural forces reveal themselves in every gust of wind, every shifting cloud, and every glint of sunlight on ice.

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Getting There: The Self-Drive Route

Driving to Snæfellsjökull from Reykjavík is part of the adventure itself. The route along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is around 190 kilometres, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Suggested Route:

1. From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) north towards Borgarnes.

2. Cross the scenic bridge into Borgarfjörður and follow Route 54, which loops around the peninsula.

3. From there, follow the signs to Snæfellsjökull National Park and Hellnar, Arnarstapi, or Ólafsvík — all popular bases for exploring.

If you’ve arrived at Keflavík International Airport, you can collect your Höldur rental car directly from our desk and join the same route north. It’s a smooth, well-maintained drive with plenty of scenic viewpoints, petrol stations, and cafés along the way.

Tip: Choose a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to venture onto gravel roads or access higher viewpoints within the park — Höldur offers reliable, eco-friendly SUVs perfect for this terrain.

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When to Visit Snæfellsjökull

You can visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula year-round, but the experience changes with the Iceland weather by month:

• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours and mild temperatures (10–15°C). Roads are clear, and trails are open — the best time for hiking and photography.

• Autumn (September–October): Crisp air and golden moss fields, with fewer visitors. Some snow may start dusting the peaks.

• Winter (November–March): Magical snowscapes and a chance to see the northern lights. Expect colder weather (around 0°C) and limited daylight, but roads are usually passable to coastal areas.

• Spring (April–May): A peaceful time to visit before summer crowds, with lengthening days and blooming wildflowers.

Regardless of season, always check Iceland road conditions before you set off, and bring warm layers — Iceland’s weather year-round can change quickly, even within a single afternoon.

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Top Things to Do Around Snæfellsjökull

1. Visit Snæfellsjökull Glacier

You can admire the glacier from multiple viewpoints, including Arnarstapi, Hellnar, and Lóndrangar Cliffs. Guided tours in summer allow you to drive partway up the glacier by super jeep or hike with professional guides.

For self-drive travellers, simply parking at one of the lower viewpoints offers incredible panoramas of Iceland’s volcanic landscape — a photographer’s dream.

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2. Explore Arnarstapi and Hellnar

These neighbouring villages are connected by a short coastal trail featuring dramatic sea cliffs, basalt formations, and nesting seabirds. The natural rock arch, Gatklettur, is one of Iceland’s most recognisable formations.

Stop for lunch or coffee at a local café overlooking the sea — this stretch of coastline feels wild yet peaceful, especially in the soft evening light of Iceland’s long summer days.

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3. Discover the Vatnshellir Lava Cave

Beneath Snæfellsjökull lies a world of volcanic tunnels. The Vatnshellir Cave, formed over 8,000 years ago, allows visitors to descend 35 metres below ground into a glittering lava chamber. Guided tours are available year-round, and it’s a fascinating reminder of the volcanic power that shaped Iceland.

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4. Visit the Svörtuloft Lighthouse

Perched on the rugged western edge of Snæfellsjökull National Park, the Svörtuloft Lighthouse stands as a bright orange beacon against the dark lava cliffs of the Atlantic coast. Its name, meaning “the black air”, refers to the dramatic volcanic rocks that surround it — remnants of ancient eruptions that shaped this wild landscape.

The drive to Svörtuloft is an adventure in itself. From Route 574, a short gravel road leads to the lighthouse, winding through lava fields covered in moss and wildflowers. The route is suitable for most vehicles in summer, but a 4x4 rental car from Höldur provides extra comfort and stability on uneven ground.

Once there, you’ll find walking paths along the cliffs offering sweeping ocean views and the chance to spot nesting seabirds or even whales offshore. The contrast between the bright lighthouse, black lava, and deep-blue sea makes it one of Iceland’s most striking photo stops.

Tip: Visit during sunset or under the midnight sun for golden light that turns the cliffs into a fiery palette of orange and red — a true reward for those exploring Iceland by car.

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5. See the Lóndrangar Sea Stacks

Rising like towers from the sea, these volcanic cliffs are among the most photographed landmarks in Iceland. The surrounding area is perfect for birdwatching, with fulmars, kittiwakes, and puffins nesting in summer.

Bring your camera and take your time — the views here capture the raw essence of Iceland’s coastal wilderness.

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6. Discover the Gerðuberg Cliffs

Located near the entrance to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Gerðuberg Cliffs offer a spectacular introduction to Iceland’s geological artistry. This impressive wall of perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns stretches for over a kilometre — a natural sculpture created by cooling lava thousands of years ago.

The symmetrical shapes and vertical lines of Gerðuberg are almost surreal, especially when bathed in the soft light of Iceland’s long summer evenings. It’s one of those stops that perfectly showcases how Iceland’s volcanic landscape combines raw power with delicate beauty.

Getting there is easy on a self-drive journey — simply follow Route 54, and you’ll spot the cliffs rising dramatically from the surrounding farmland. There’s a small parking area nearby, allowing you to walk right up to the base of the columns for a closer look.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the day for the best light (and fewer visitors). It’s also a fantastic photo stop on your way to or from Snæfellsjökull National Park.

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Self-Drive Travel Tips

Driving through Snæfellsjökull National Park is straightforward, but preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable experience:

1. Book your car hire early. Höldur offers competitive rates and convenient pick-up at Keflavík Airport or Reykjavík.

2. Check weather forecasts. Iceland’s climate can shift quickly, especially near the coast.

3. Respect the environment. Stay on marked roads and trails; off-road driving is prohibited.

4. Fuel up when you can. Petrol prices in Iceland are higher than in mainland Europe, and stations become rarer beyond small towns.

5. Watch the daylight hours. In winter, daylight can be as short as four hours, while in summer it’s nearly endless — plan your driving accordingly.

Whether you choose a compact car or a rugged 4x4, Höldur’s modern, eco-friendly fleet ensures your drive is comfortable and reliable, whatever the season.

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Wildlife and Nature Encounters

Snæfellsjökull National Park is a haven for wildlife. Seals often bask on the beaches, while orcas and minke whales can sometimes be seen offshore. Arctic foxes roam the cliffs, and birdwatchers can enjoy puffins, razorbills, and terns nesting throughout summer.

The combination of ocean, lava, glacier, and sky makes this region feel untouched and timeless — one of the most diverse ecosystems in Iceland’s west coast.

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Local Flavour: Villages and Eateries

The small fishing villages around the peninsula — Ólafsvík, Hellissandur, and Grundarfjörður — offer a warm welcome to travellers.

Try traditional Icelandic dishes like fresh cod, langoustine, or lamb stew, paired with rye bread baked in geothermal heat. These meals celebrate both Iceland’s heritage and its commitment to sustainability — values shared by Höldur’s eco-conscious brand ethos.

Many cafés also serve excellent local coffee, making them ideal rest stops during your drive.

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FAQs: Visiting Snæfellsjökull and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Can you drive to Snæfellsjökull Glacier yourself?

You can drive close to the glacier and reach the main viewpoints, but access to the summit requires a guided tour or a super jeep. Most travellers enjoy the area via a self-drive loop around the national park.

How long does it take to drive around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula?

The full loop is roughly 300 kilometres and can be driven comfortably in one day. However, staying overnight allows time to explore villages and hiking trails.

What’s the weather like near Snæfellsjökull?

Expect mild summers (10–15°C) and cool, windy winters (around 0°C). Always check Iceland weather by month updates before travelling, as coastal conditions can change rapidly.

Is it worth renting a car in Iceland for this trip?

Absolutely. The freedom of a self-drive tour lets you stop wherever inspiration strikes. Höldur offers affordable car rental in Iceland with pickup options at Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport — perfect for travellers exploring at their own pace.

 

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Final Thoughts: Drive Into Iceland’s Living Story

Standing before Snæfellsjökull Glacier, it’s easy to see why legends and literature have long centred on this mountain. It’s more than a destination — it’s an experience of Iceland’s living landscape, where fire meets ice and imagination meets reality.

A self-drive journey with Höldur turns this remote wonder into an accessible, comfortable, and sustainable adventure. From your first turn out of Reykjavík to the final glimpse of the glacier, every kilometre reveals a new facet of Iceland’s soul.

So start your engine, take the scenic route, and let Snæfellsjökull remind you that the real magic of Iceland lies not only in its destinations — but in the journey itself.

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