Snæfellsjökull National Park

The Snæfellsjökull National Park is one of the most fascinating and picturesque places in Iceland, not only for its natural beauty, but also for its cultural and historical significance. Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this park covers a vast area that includes the famous volcanic glacier Snæfellsjökull, made famous by Jules Verne’s novel “Journey to the Center of the Earth”. Established in 2001, the park is the first in Iceland to be created to protect both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. At the heart of the park is the majestic Snæfellsjökull, a glacier covering a dormant volcano approximately 1446 meters high. The snow-capped peak of this volcano is visible from Reykjavík on clear days and has inspired myths, legends, and literary works for centuries. The combination of ice and fire, typical of Icelandic landscapes, reaches one of its most spectacular examples of beauty here. The volcano is active, but has not erupted in the last 1800 years, making it a safe exploration site for visitors. In addition to the glacier, the park offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes, including black lava fields, sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and hidden caves. Visitors can explore Vatnshellir Cave, a lava cave formed by a volcanic eruption about 8000 years ago. Access to the cave is only possible with guided tours, which allow you to discover the underground wonders of this natural formation with the safety of an expert. The park’s ecology is equally fascinating, with flora and fauna reflecting the diversity of Icelandic environments. Meadows and moorlands host a variety of endemic plants, while cliffs and beaches are populated by colonies of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars. During the summer, whales can be spotted off the park’s coast, offering an unforgettable spectacle for nature lovers. Another point of cultural interest is the Malarrif Lighthouse, located on the park’s western coast. This lighthouse, built in 1917 and renovated over the years, is still in operation and offers a panoramic view of the ocean and surrounding cliffs. The lighthouse is a symbol of Iceland’s long maritime tradition and serves as an essential landmark for sailors navigating these dangerous waters. The spiritual dimension of Snæfellsjökull cannot be overlooked. The glacier and volcano have long been considered sacred and mystical places, and many people believe that the area is a center of spiritual energy. This perception has been reinforced by literature, particularly by Jules Verne’s aforementioned novel, which has helped spread the image of Snæfellsjökull as a gateway to unknown and mysterious worlds. Activities within the park are varied and suitable for all types of visitors. Hikers can choose from numerous trails of varying lengths and difficulties, allowing them to explore the different facets of the Icelandic landscape. Some of the most popular routes include the trail leading to the top of the glacier, for the more adventurous, and the path that crosses the lava fields of Berserkjahraun, a place steeped in Viking legends. For those interested in photography, the Snæfellsjökull National Park offers endless opportunities. Changes in light and changing weather conditions create ever-changing and fascinating scenarios. The Northern Lights, visible during the winter months, add an additional element of magic to this already extraordinary landscape.