A look into Iceland’s volcanic landscapes: Saxhóll Crater

What’s Saxhóll Crater?

Saxhóll Crater is a volcanic cinder cone situated near the westernmost tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, in West Iceland. It was formed approximately 3,000 to 4,000 years ago during a huge eruption, characterized by the explosive interaction of magma and water. Rising 100 meters (328 feet) above the surrounding lava fields, the crater has a width of about 200 meters (656 feet), and has the usual elliptical shape typical of cinder cones. It primarily consists of loose volcanic material, such as scoria and ash, with a central depression filled with black sand and scattered rocks.

What sets this place apart from other volcanic elements in Iceland is its accessibility. A metal staircase, consisting of 385 steps, has been built from the base to the rim, which makes it quite easy to reach the summit. The views from the top are simply astonishing. You have the vast North Atlantic Ocean to the west and the majestic shape of the Snæfellsjökull Glacier to the east. And you’ll see yourself surrounded by rugged lava fields and jagged peaks in the distance. At the end of the day, Saxhóll Crater is on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, one of the most diverse regions in Iceland.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is usually on every traveler’s list of things to see and do when coming to Iceland, as it has a lot packed in a relatively small territory. In fact, it receives the nickname of “Iceland in miniature.” Saxhóll Crater itself combines natural beauty and geological interests, but it’s also surrounded by some of the best things to see in Iceland. Maybe it’s a bit remote to plan a day trip just to see it, but it’s an easy stop to add to an itinerary through this region.

Where’s Saxhóll Crater and how to get there

Saxhóll Crater is located on the western end of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) south of the village of Hellissandur. It’s 200 kilometers (124 miles) away from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, and it takes about two and half hours to get there from the capital. The best way to travel there is by car. Renting a car will allow you to explore all the amazing attractions this country has waiting for you.

If you’re going to stay in Reykjavik, the itinerary is quite easy to follow, and you’ll pass through some pretty amazing landscapes on your way to Saxhóll Crater. Start by taking the famous Ring Road (Route 1) heading north. After approximately one hour, you’ll reach the city of Borgarnes. Just after the city, take the exit for Route 54 (Snæfellsnesvegur), which loops around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. After 100 kilometers (60 miles) on this road, you’ll see the exit for Route 574 (Útnesvegur) on the left-hand side, with signs for Arnarstapi and Hellnar. This road goes close to the coast, surrounding the western part of the peninsula. Continue on it until you see signs for Saxhóll Crater. There’s a parking area close to where the staircase is.

The roads leading to Saxhóll are paved and well-maintained, so it’s easy to get there. However, the weather can have a strong impact on the roads in Iceland, especially in winter. It’s important to check the road conditions before setting out.

The Weather at Saxhóll Crater

The climate of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, including Saxhóll Crater, changes significantly across the seasons. Not only that, but it can change a lot within the same day. The crater’s location close to the sea makes it even more unpredictable. Here, you have what you can expect in general terms each season.

Summer (June to August)

Summer brings the mildest weather to Saxhóll Crater, with average daytime temperatures between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The coastal winds can make it feel lower, especially at the crater’s summit. Rain is more or less common, and even on a sunny day, the wind can bring in showers at a moment’s notice. The daylight hours are very long, giving plenty of time to explore the region. It’s peak season, so there are more tourists, but the crater is not as known as other attractions in the area, so it’s rare to find crowds.

Autumn (September and October)

This season comes with cooler temperatures and shorter days to Saxhóll Crater, with daytime highs typically ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) and nighttime lows sometimes dipping below freezing. The chances of rain increase, and there could be the first days of snow by the end of October. It’s shoulder season, so it’s possible to enjoy the crater all by yourself.

Winter (November to March)

Winters are long and cold in Iceland, with average temperatures usually around the freezing point. The landscapes are generally covered in snow, and daylight hours are pretty short, just 4 by the end of December. It’s important to proceed with caution on the staircase going to the summit, as there could be ice, making it very slippery. Also, roads can close due to adverse weather. On the other hand, the landscapes look especially beautiful and there are not many visitors.

Spring (April and May)

With temperatures and daylight hours on the rise, spring is a beautiful time at Saxhóll Center. The average temperature moves between 0°C and 7°C (32°F and 45°F) during the day. The weather is highly variable, with brief periods of sunshine mixed with showers. Snow from winter may still linger into April, particularly at higher elevations. But once it melts, the meadows come alive with green pastures and flowers.

Regardless of the season, it’s key to be prepared: layered clothing, windproof and waterproof jacket, and proper footwear are essential due to the region’s unpredictable weather.

What to see and do Near Saxhóll Crater

As we have mentioned before, the area around Saxhóll Crater is full of natural wonders. Creating an itinerary through the region is quite easy.

Djúpalónssandur

Djúpalónssandur is a black pebble beach between impressive lava cliffs along the peninsula’s southern coast. As you walk along the shore, you'll come across four large stones. These stones were traditionally used to test the strength of fishermen, with each stone representing a different level of strength. Even today, visitors can try to lift them.

The beach is also a site of historical interest, with remnants of a British trawler that was wrecked here in 1948. The rusting metal pieces scattered along the shore serve as a reminder of the sea's power.

Öndverðarnes and Svörtuloft Lighthouses

Located at the westernmost tip of the peninsula, these two lighthouses are like two orange beacons in front of the vast Atlantic Ocean. They are excellent places for a walk, and there are a lot of sea birds that nest in the area, including kittiwakes and puffins (May to August).

Svöðufoss

Svöðufoss is a modest but captivating waterfall near Ólafsvík. It’s surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns, testimony of its volcanic origin. The falls, approximately 10 meters (33 feet) high, flow into a clear pool, surrounded by rocks covered in green moss.

Snæfellsjökull Glacier

This majestic mountain can be seen from almost any point on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s a stratovolcano capped by a glacier, and it’s the central piece of the Snæfellsjökull National Park. Rising 1,446 meters (4,744 feet) above sea level, it holds cultural significance as it is where Jules Verne got the inspiration for Journey to the Center of the Earth. There's a trail that goes all the way up to the summit, and the views from there are just impressive. You can’t only see all the land around, but on a clear day, you can see all the way to Reykjavik, which is 120 kilometers (75 miles) away.

Whale Watching from Ólafsvík

The fishing village of Ólafsvík, on the northern coast of the peninsula, is one of the best places in Iceland for whale watching. Many companies operate tours from the town’s harbor to see species such as humpback whales, orcas, and minke whales. There are even chances to spot a blue whale. The tours usually last 2 or 3 hours and are available year-round, but summer is prime season. It’s advisable to book these tours in advance.

Lóndrangar

The Lóndrangar cliffs are two massive basalt rock pinnacles that have been eroded by the sea over centuries. They look like a castle or fortress, or two guardians protecting the land. These formations are, in reality, part of an old volcanic crater and are a popular nesting site for seabirds. The tallest of the two pillars is 75 meters (245 feet) tall, and the smallest is 61 meters (200 feet) tall. The cliffs are also steeped in local folklore, as the legend says that they are the remains of trolls turned to stone by the sun.

Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge

Rauðfeldsgjá is a narrow fissure carved into Botnsfjall Mountain. It’s not the typical wide and large canyon that can be found in other parts of Iceland, but a tight crevasse where barely two people can stand side by side. There’s a shallow stream that runs at the base and, at the end, a chamber with a small waterfall opens up, with the walls covered in moss.

Hiking in the Area

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a range of hiking trails for all skill levels. The coastal path from Arnarstapi to Hellnar (approximately 2.5 km / 1.6 miles) is one of the most popular ones, with views of natural rock arches, lava formations and impressive cliffs. A harder one is the climb to Mount Stapafell (526 meters / 1,726 feet), but it rewards with fantastic panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. If you’re up to a challenge, you can try to go all the way up to Snæfellsjökull’s summit, but it’s necessary to be well prepared and go with a guide.

Travel Tips

• Footwear: Wear waterproof shoes with strong traction and good ankle support, as the staircase may be wet or icy, particularly in winter.
• Photography: Bring a camera to capture the views from the summit. Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light conditions.
• Check the Weather forecast: The weather changes quite a lot here and is unpredictable, so it’s important to check the local forecast. Bring windproof and waterproof clothes regardless of the season.
• Supplies: There are no shops, bars or restaurants near Saxhóll Crater, so bring everything you may need, including food and water. The nearest shop is in Hellissandur.
• Respect nature: Stick to marked paths, don’t disturb the wildlife, and take your trash with you.

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Conclusion

Saxhóll Crater is a fantastic geological feature in West Iceland that is often overlooked by visitors. It’s a great example of the volcanic activity that has shaped the country, and it is also in a region full of magnificent things to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, you have to go to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. And there, add the awesome crater to your list. It’s something you won’t regret.