Saxhóll Crater
About Saxhóll Crater
Saxhóll is one of the most accessible volcanic craters in Iceland and a striking natural landmark on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It lies within Snæfellsjökull National Park, about 2 kilometers from the main road leading toward Djúpalónssandur and just a short drive from the village of Hellnar.
The crater was formed around 3,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption that sent lava flowing across the peninsula, shaping much of the landscape you see today. The eruption originated from a volcanic fissure connected to the larger Snæfellsjökull system, the same glacier-capped volcano made famous by Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Today, Saxhóll is one of the best places in Iceland to see the structure of a volcanic crater up close, no climbing gear required.
The Landscape and Formation
Saxhóll rises about 100 meters above the surrounding lava field, offering a perfect example of a small scoria cone volcano. It was formed when magma erupted explosively from the ground, throwing red-hot lava fragments into the air that cooled and piled up around the vent, creating the circular cone shape visible today.
The landscape surrounding Saxhóll is a vast lava field known as Neshraun, which extends all the way to the sea. The contrast between the deep black lava, the reddish crater slopes, and the distant white glacier of Snæfellsjökull creates one of the most dramatic views on the peninsula.
Walking to the top is easy and rewarding. A metal staircase leads all the way up, making the climb accessible to most visitors. From the summit, you can look down into the circular crater and across the surrounding volcanic plains, cliffs, and coastline.
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Visiting Saxhóll
Saxhóll is an excellent stop for travelers exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in miniature” because it contains so many of the country’s natural wonders in one region.
The climb to the top takes only about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your pace. The steps are secure and well maintained, and there are small platforms where you can rest or take photos on the way up. Once at the top, the view stretches in every direction — the ocean, lava fields, and the majestic Snæfellsjökull Glacier on clear days.
The experience is peaceful and surreal. You can feel the rough volcanic rock beneath your feet and sense the power that shaped Iceland’s landscapes thousands of years ago.
Seasonal Visiting Guide
Summer (June to August)
The steps are clear and safe, and the views stretch far across the peninsula. The weather is usually mild, making it the best time for photography and outdoor exploration.
Autumn (September to October)
Cooler air and fewer visitors make for a calm and quiet visit. The low sunlight brings out rich colors in the lava and crater slopes.
Winter (November to February)
The crater remains open, but snow and ice can make the stairs slippery. Check road and weather conditions before visiting. On clear winter nights, the area around Saxhóll is an excellent place to watch the Northern Lights.
Spring (March to May)
The landscape begins to thaw, revealing bright moss patches and fresh textures across the lava field. It’s a great time for peaceful, crowd-free exploration.
Things to Do Around Saxhóll
The surrounding area offers several other highlights that pair perfectly with a visit to Saxhóll:
Djúpalónssandur Beach – A short drive from the crater, this black pebble beach features dramatic cliffs, lava formations, and remnants of a shipwreck scattered across the shore.
Snæfellsjökull Glacier – Visible from the top of Saxhóll, this glacier covers an active volcano and offers guided tours and hiking routes in summer.
Lóndrangar Cliffs – Two towering volcanic rock pinnacles rising from the sea, just 10 minutes away.
Arnarstapi and Hellnar – Small coastal villages with scenic sea cliffs, arches, and walking paths with incredible ocean views.
Vatnshellir Cave – A lava tube located only a few kilometers away, accessible through guided tours that take you deep underground into ancient volcanic passages.
The Spirit of Saxhóll
Saxhóll captures the essence of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, simple, powerful, and raw. Standing on its rim, you can look across lava plains that once flowed from the crater itself, shaped by forces deep beneath the earth.
It’s a reminder of Iceland’s constant transformation, where volcanoes, ice, and sea work together to sculpt the land. Saxhóll may be small compared to the giant volcanoes nearby, but its accessibility and views make it one of the most rewarding stops on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Whether you climb it for the view, the photos, or simply the feeling of standing on a volcano, Saxhóll leaves a lasting impression of Iceland’s untamed natural beauty.
Getting There & Practical Information
Location: Snæfellsjökull National Park, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland.
Distance from Reykjavík: About 190 kilometers, roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
Access: Paved road with a small parking area at the base of the crater.
Facilities: Information board and viewing platform. No café or restrooms on-site.
Accessibility: Metal staircase makes the climb relatively easy. Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Safety and Visitor Tips
Use the stairs. Avoid climbing directly on loose rocks around the crater, as they can shift underfoot.
Be careful in strong winds. The top is exposed, and gusts can be powerful even on clear days.
Stay on marked paths. The surrounding lava field is fragile and easily damaged.
Dress appropriately. Bring a jacket even in summer — the wind near the top can be cold.
Avoid visiting during storms. Visibility can drop quickly in fog or rain, making the climb unsafe.
Watch your step at the summit. The inner crater slopes are steep and unstable.
How tall is Saxhóll?
Saxhóll rises about 100 meters above the surrounding lava fields. It is a small volcanic cone but offers incredible views across the Snæfellsnes landscape and toward the ocean.
How long does it take to climb Saxhóll?
The climb to the top takes about 5 to 10 minutes on a well-built metal staircase. Most visitors spend around 20 to 30 minutes exploring and enjoying the views.
Is Saxhóll suitable for children and families?
Yes. The stairs make the climb safe and manageable for most visitors, including families with children. Parents should still supervise younger kids near the top, as the crater rim is steep.
When is the best time to visit Saxhóll?
Saxhóll can be visited all year. Summer and early autumn usually offer the best weather and visibility, but winter visits can be just as rewarding if conditions are clear, especially when the Northern Lights appear above the crater.