Gatklettur: Iceland's Stunning Stone Arch

What's Gatklettur?

Gatklettur (also known as Hellnar Arch) is a rock arch located on Iceland's western coast. Unlike those crowded spots where you wait in line for photos, this place gives you room to breathe. However, it has become increasingly popular in the last couple of years, especially among those looking for amazing pictures or birdwatching opportunities.

What makes it special are the swirly patterns on the rock. The ocean carved these designs over hundreds of years. The name "Gatklettur" basically means "rock with a hole" in Icelandic. The arch stands as a testament to the slow, constant work of nature over centuries.

How Was It Formed?

This arch shows what happens when water meets rock. Ocean waves carved it from basalt rock during big storms in Faxaflói bay. Water hit the same spot for hundreds of years until it broke through the rock, creating the arch.

Scientists say Gatklettur is between 500 and 1,000 years old – one of the oldest rock arches around. Although basalt is a tough material, the arch is slowly wearing away. One day, it'll collapse and leave behind tall rock pillars in the ocean. Local officials have put up fences to protect it, but nature will ultimately prevail.

This gradual change makes Iceland's landscape all the more fascinating. The coastline never stops shifting. The arch you see today will look different for future generations, making now the perfect time to see it.

Location & How to Get There

Gatklettur sits on the southwest coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, nestled between the tiny fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. It's closer to Arnarstapi if you're picking a home base.

The best way to get there is by renting a car, as the journey itself is a wonder, passing through beautiful villages, black sand beaches, and waterfalls.

If you’re coming from Reykjavik, it's about a 2.5-hour drive (200 kilometers) northwest. Follow the Ring Road (Route 1) to Borgarnes, then take Route 54 until you reach Arnarstapi. The roads are good, and the scenery along the way makes for great photos.

If you don’t want to drive, there are companies that run day trips from Reykjavík that include Gatklettur as one of many cool stops.

Once you get to Arnarstapi, park your car and look for signs to the coastal path. The closest parking lot is right in Arnarstapi. From there, it's an easy walk to find the arch. Starting from Arnarstapi makes for a shorter hike. If you start from Hellnar instead, it'll take about an hour round trip, but it offers a different perspective.

Best Time to Visit

The weather in Iceland changes a lot throughout the year, and this affects your trip to Gatklettur in different ways.

Spring

Spring (April to June) is the sweet spot for most visitors. It's not too cold—usually between 4-10°C (39-50°F)—so hiking is comfortable with a few layers. You'll see 30-40% fewer tourists than in summer, often having the coastal path all to yourself on weekdays. Local guesthouses offer prices 15-20% lower than during peak season. The landscape turns green during these months, making the dark rocks stand out in photos.

Summer

Summer (July to August) brings warmer days of 10-14°C (50-57°F). This is when most tourists show up, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. Want to dodge the crowds? Head out before 9 AM or after 5 PM. Thanks to the Midnight Sun, you can visit as late as 10 PM with enough light to see everything—the sunset casts a warm glow on the rocks. Puffins nest on the cliffs from late May through August, so bring binoculars to spot these colorful birds.

Fall

Fall (September to October) sees the crowds thin out, and prices drop back to spring levels. The weather becomes more unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 2-8°C (36-46°F) and an increase in rainy days. Storm clouds rolling through create some dramatic backdrops for photos.

Winter

Winter (November to March) attracts serious photographers despite the challenges. It gets cold, between -3 and 4°C (27-39°F), and daylight only lasts 4-6 hours. When skies are clear, the low winter sun makes the colors and textures pop. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might see the Northern Lights. Snow and ice can make the path slippery, so winter hiking boots are a must. The upside? You might have the whole place to yourself.

What to Wear

In Iceland, the weather plays by its own rules – especially on the coast. When you visit Gatklettur, your clothing choices are important for both comfort and safety.

• Bring a waterproof jacket and pants – essential items for this area. The wind here gets strong and sudden, especially on the exposed coastline. Layer up underneath so you can adjust as temperatures change. Even sunny days can turn cold quickly when clouds move in.
• Good hiking boots are a must. The coastal trail gets slippery in spots, and proper footwear provides needed ankle support and grip. The trail isn't difficult, but regular shoes won't cut it on the wet, uneven terrain.
• Sun protection is necessary, even on cloudy days. The sun reflects off the ocean and can cause sunburn surprisingly fast. Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for protection.

Safety note: the cliffs drop about 80 meters (over 260 feet) straight down to the ocean. Stay back from the edge, especially in windy conditions or when children are present.

Where to Stay Nearby

The villages near Gatklettur offer accommodations that place you close to this natural wonder.

Arnarstapi provides the most convenient location. The Arnarstapi Center has a variety of accommodation options for people visiting the town:

• The Arnastapi Hotel: 36 rooms, 22 double or twin, 10 triple rooms, and 4 apartments suitable for up to 6 persons.
• Arnastapi Cottages: features 13 wooden cottages, each with space for two adults and one child. They offer a cozy, rustic stay that fits with the natural environment. Book early if possible, especially during the summer – availability fills up quickly.
• Arnastapi Guesthouse: 8 rooms, 5 double rooms, and 3 quadruple rooms for those looking for something a bit more low-key.
• Arnastapi Camping: For those traveling on a campervan or looking for adventure.

Hellnar is just a short drive away with several guesthouses and small hotels. It offers a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists than Arnarstapi.

Budget travelers can camp during summer. Iceland has clean campsites throughout its rural areas, although the options near Gatklettur are limited.

For more amenities, try the larger towns of Ólafsvík or Grundarfjörður. They're about 30-45 minutes from Gatklettur but offer more restaurants and services.

Things to Do There & Nearby

The arch itself takes about 30 minutes to explore, but the surrounding area offers plenty more activities.

Hike the Coastal Trail

This 5-kilometer path between Arnarstapi and Hellnar is the main attraction. It takes about two hours to complete and follows the cliffs, providing excellent views of Gatklettur and other rock formations. The hike suits most fitness levels and presents numerous photo opportunities.

Watch for Birds

In summer, the cliffs become home to seabirds, including puffins with their distinctive orange beaks. Binoculars help spot these birds as they nest in the rocks.

Take Photos

Photographers find abundant subjects here, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the details of the arch and surrounding landscape.

Visit the Giant Statue

Arnarstapi features a 6-meter stone statue representing Bárður, a half-giant from Icelandic folklore and protector of the peninsula. The statue is a great way to learn more about the region's culture.

Explore Snæfellsjökull National Park

Just 6 minutes away stands the glacier-topped volcano that inspired Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." The park offers hiking trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels and diverse Icelandic landscapes.

See The Stone Bridge

While walking the coastal path, look out for another impressive rock formation called The Stone Bridge, which is worth adding to your itinerary.

Visit Djupalonssandur Beach

A 16-minute drive away, this black pebble beach features remnants of a British trawler shipwreck and lifting stones once used to test fishermen's strength.

Conclusion

Gatklettur showcases what makes Iceland special – natural forces creating remarkable formations over centuries. While tourists crowd other locations, this arch provides space to appreciate Iceland's coastal beauty.

The combination of unusual geology, folk legends, and striking scenery makes Gatklettur a worthwhile destination. The perfect sunrise photo, a cliff-side hike, or simply observing the arch delivers an authentic Icelandic experience.