38 Best Sights in West Iceland and Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland

Saxhóll

If you want to explore a volcanic crater without hiking too far, Saxhóll is the place. The most interesting views are from the top, where you can take in the whole scene at the center of the crater. Getting up is easier than you would think; man-made steps lead visitors up to the crest, and you'll be up at the top before you know it. Make sure to spend time walking around the peak, but watch your step.

Skarðsvík Beach

Iceland may be known for its black-sand beaches, but this golden-sand beach is secluded and far less crowded than Reynisfjara near Vík. Amenities: parking (free). Best for: solitude; sunrise; swimming.

Snorralaug

What may well be the oldest hot spring in Iceland was first mentioned in the writings of medieval Icelandic historian and poet Snorri Sturluson, who used to bathe here. The water is often far too hot for a dip, so visit the nearby Snorrastofa instead to learn about Sturluson himself.

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Svörtuloft Lighthouse

If you're visiting during the summertime, head to the Svörtuloft Lighthouse at low tide. The surrounding cliffs, which are made up of dramatic black lava, are a sight to see against the bright-orange lighthouse.

Svöðufoss

If you're looking to beat the crowds and find a waterfall to call your own, head to Svöðufoss (pronounced “svuew-thoo-foss”). This 32-foot waterfall spills over a set of basalt columns, and on particularly clear days, you can see Snæfellsjökul glacier behind them.

Svöðufoss

The Laxa River falls 131 feet at Svöðufoss. A four-minute drive outside of Hellissandur, it's the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch on a nice day. To get to these falls, drive along Route 54 and turn off toward Sveinnstadir. Continue past the farm to a house called Foss. From there, Svöðufoss is an 800-meter walk from the road. If you're in the mood for more waterfall scenes, continue walking to Kerlingarfoss.

The Húsafell Stone

Weighing in around 410 pounds, the Húsafell Stone was once used as a measure of strength by men hoping to score a job on nearby working ships. Even before that, it functioned as a gate for a sheep pen built by Snorri Björnsson in the 18th century. Today, you can try and lift it for fun (and bragging rights). 

Ytri Tunga Beach

This area next to a farm of the same name is well known for its nearby "Seal Beach," where harbor seals and grey seals spend the summer months basking in the near-constant sunlight on rocks just offshore. You're likely to see them in the area year-round, but you're more likely to catch the eye of a friendly seal swimming by in the warmer months. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude, wildlife-watching.