Gatklettur, also known as the Hellnar Arch, is a natural stone arch that’s a key stop on many Snaefellsnes tours. It’s located between the villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland. Shaped from basalt by centuries of wave and wind erosion, the arch is part of a rugged coastal landscape where volcanic rock meets the Atlantic Ocean.
Recognized for its distinctive arched form and dramatic coastal setting, Gatklettur is often regarded as one of the most beautiful rock formations in Iceland. The arch lies directly along the coastal path that connects Arnarstapi and Hellnar, making it easy to include whether you are exploring the peninsula on self-drive tours or on relaxed guided tours from Reykjavik.
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Key Takeaways
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Gatklettur (Hellnar Arch) is a natural basalt stone arch located between Arnarstapi and Hellnar on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland.
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The arch was shaped by long-term wave and wind erosion and is a prominent feature of the peninsula’s rugged Atlantic coastline.
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Gatklettur lies directly along the coastal walking path that connects Arnarstapi and Hellnar, making it easy to visit on foot from either village.
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The site is free to visit and open year-round, though weather and walking conditions vary by season.
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Summer offers the most stable conditions, while winter brings dramatic scenery and fewer visitors.
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Nearby attractions include Snaefellsjokull National Park, Londrangar Basalt Cliffs, Vatnshellir Lava Cave, and Djupalonssandur Beach.
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Accommodation options close to Gatklettur are available in Arnarstapi and Hellnar, including hotels and cottages within easy reach of the coastal path.
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Due to exposed cliffs and changing weather, visitors should stay on marked paths and plan carefully, especially outside the summer months.
Gatklettur Location and How To Get There
Gatklettur is located on the southern coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland, between the villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. The stone arch sits along the rugged Atlantic coastline and forms part of the cliff-lined shore that defines this section of the peninsula.
Driving to Gatklettur
To reach Gatklettur Arch, drive to the village of Arnarstapi on the southwest coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where the stone arch is located nearby along the coastline.
From Reykjavik, the drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and covers about 124 miles (200 kilometers). The route follows Route 1 north to Borgarnes, then continues on Route 54 toward Arnarstapi. Roads on this route are paved and commonly used for self-drive travel in western Iceland.
After arriving in Arnarstapi, continue on foot along the coastal path toward Hellnar to reach Gatklettur. You can also approach the arch from Hellnar, though Arnarstapi is the closer starting point.
Visiting Gatklettur on a Tour
If you do not want to drive, you can visit Gatklettur Arch as part of a Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour departing from Reykjavik. These tours make it easy to see the area without renting a car and usually include stops at Arnarstapi and Hellnar, where Gatklettur is located, along with other well-known sights in western Iceland.
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2-day Snaefellsnes Peninsula Sightseeing Tour from Reykjavik: Focuses on coastal scenery and, during winter, may also include opportunities to see the northern lights.
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2-day West Iceland Tour to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Combines visits to the coastline with experiences such as lava cave exploration.
By joining a guided tour, transportation, route planning, and timing are handled for you. This can be a practical choice if you prefer a structured itinerary or are visiting Iceland outside the summer season, when driving conditions can be more challenging.
Gatklettur Arch Rock Formation and Natural Features
Gatklettur is formed from basalt, a volcanic rock that makes up much of Iceland’s coastline. The stone arch developed over a long period of time as waves, wind, and saltwater gradually eroded weaker sections of the coastal cliffs, leaving behind the more resistant rock that forms the arch seen today.
The formation sits along an exposed stretch of shoreline where the Atlantic Ocean meets the cliffs of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Constant wave action has shaped not only the arch itself but also the surrounding rock faces, creating layered textures, smooth curves, and sharp edges that are characteristic of Iceland’s volcanic coast.
Gatklettur is part of a wider landscape shaped by both volcanic activity and marine erosion. Lava flows from past eruptions created the basalt cliffs along this section of the coast, while ongoing erosion continues to shape the shoreline. This combination of volcanic origin and ocean forces makes Gatklettur a clear example of the natural processes that define much of Iceland’s coastal scenery.
Best Time To Visit Gatklettur
Gatklettur can be visited throughout the year, but conditions along the Snaefellsnes coast vary significantly by season. Your experience will depend on daylight hours, weather, and how much time you want to spend exploring the surrounding area on foot.
Summer (June to August) offers the most stable conditions. Long daylight hours make it easy to visit Gatklettur at almost any time of day, and the coastal path between Arnarstapi and Hellnar is usually clear and accessible. This is also the most popular period to visit.
Spring and autumn are quieter and can offer changing light and fewer visitors. Weather conditions are more variable, with cooler temperatures and stronger winds, but these seasons are often well-suited to short walks and photography along the coast.
Winter (October to April) brings a more dramatic atmosphere, with rough seas and changing weather along the cliffs. While Gatklettur remains accessible, daylight hours are limited, and walking conditions can be affected by snow, ice, and wind. If you visit during winter, it’s important to plan around daylight and weather forecasts.
Regardless of the season, coastal weather can change quickly. Dressing in warm, wind-resistant layers is recommended year-round, especially when spending time near the cliffs.
Where To Stay Near Gatklettur
There are no accommodations directly at Gatklettur, but several well-located hotels and cottages in Arnarstapi and Hellnar provide convenient places to stay close to the stone arch and the southern coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
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Arnarstapi Hotel: This is a comfortable hotel located in the village of Arnarstapi. It offers simple, well-kept rooms with views of the surrounding mountains or coastline. The hotel is within easy reach of the coastal path that leads toward Gatklettur, making it a practical base for walking and sightseeing in the area. It is also home to the Snjófell Restaurant, where guests can enjoy a meal in a scenic setting.
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Arnarstapi Cottages: These offer stand-alone cottage accommodation in a scenic setting near the village. Each cottage provides a private space with essential amenities, including a small kitchenette area and outdoor seating. This option suits those who prefer a more independent stay while remaining close to Gatklettur and the coastal trail.
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Fosshotel Hellnar: This is a larger hotel located near the coastline in Hellnar. It offers hotel-style services, a restaurant, and rooms overlooking lava fields and the ocean. The hotel is a good choice if you want more amenities while staying close to Gatklettur and other nearby sights on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Things To Do Near Gatklettur
The area surrounding Gatklettur offers several well-known natural and cultural attractions that can easily be combined into the same visit. Located on the southern coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Gatklettur is close to villages, walking routes, and some of the region’s most distinctive landmarks.
Walk the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Coastal Trail
The coastal path between Arnarstapi and Hellnar passes directly by Gatklettur and is one of the most popular activities in the area. The trail follows the cliff edge and offers clear views of the stone arch, surrounding lava formations, and the Atlantic Ocean.
See the Statue of Bardur Snaefellsas
In Arnarstapi, you can find a large stone statue of Bardur Snaefellsas, a legendary half-giant from Icelandic folklore said to protect the peninsula. The statue overlooks the coastline and adds cultural context to the surrounding landscape.
Admire the Londrangar Basalt Cliffs
The Londrangar Basalt Cliffs are towering rock pinnacles rising from the coastline within Snaefellsjokull National Park. These formations are among the most dramatic coastal features on the peninsula and are a common stop on regional itineraries.
Visit Raudfeldsgja Gorge
Raudfeldsgja Gorge is a narrow canyon cut into volcanic rock, where a small stream flows between steep cliff walls. The gorge is associated with local legends and offers a short but memorable walk through a striking natural setting.
Descend into Vatnshellir Lava Cave
Vatnshellir Lava Cave is a lava tube formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. You can explore with a guided Vatnshellir tour, which takes you underground to see rock formations created by flowing lava and learn more about the peninsula’s volcanic history.
Experience Snaefellsjokull National Park
Snaefellsjokull National Park surrounds the glacier-capped volcano made famous by Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. The park features lava fields, coastal cliffs, and marked trails across varied landscapes.
Stop at Djupalonssandur Beach
Djupalonssandur is a black pebble beach known for its dramatic scenery and the remains of a historic shipwreck. The area also features lifting stones once used to test fishermen’s strength.
Gatklettur Practical Travel Information
Planning ahead can help you make the most of your visit to Gatklettur, especially given its exposed coastal location on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
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Access and Parking: There is no dedicated parking directly at Gatklettur. The most convenient place to park is in Arnarstapi, near the coastal area and the statue of Bardur Snaefellsas. From there, Gatklettur can be reached on foot along the coastal path. Parking in Arnarstapi is generally free and close to the main walking routes.
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Trail Conditions and Walking: The coastal path between Arnarstapi and Hellnar runs past Gatklettur and is clearly marked. The trail follows the cliff edge and offers open views of the coastline, with a surface made up of gravel, dirt, and some uneven rocky sections. While the walk is straightforward in good conditions, sturdy footwear is recommended, as the path can become slippery after rain or in colder weather.
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Weather and Safety: Gatklettur is located along an exposed coastline where wind and weather can change quickly. Strong gusts and powerful waves are common, particularly in winter. Keep a safe distance from cliff edges, stay on marked paths, and avoid walking close to the shoreline during rough conditions.
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Facilities: There are no facilities at Gatklettur itself. Basic services such as restrooms, cafés, and small shops are available in Arnarstapi, though availability may vary outside the summer season.
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Accessibility: The walking path is not fully accessible for wheelchairs or strollers due to uneven ground and natural terrain. Some viewpoints near the start of the coastal path may still offer views of the surrounding coastline, depending on conditions.
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Wildlife and Environment: Seabirds nest along the cliffs near Gatklettur, especially during summer. Stay on designated paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and take care not to step on fragile coastal vegetation.
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Access and Timing: There is no entrance fee to visit Gatklettur, and the area is open year-round. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility, particularly outside the summer months.
Planning Your Visit to Gatklettur
Gatklettur is one of the defining coastal landmarks of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, offering a clear example of how Iceland’s volcanic geology and powerful ocean forces shape the landscape. Its natural stone arch, dramatic setting above the Atlantic Ocean, and location between Arnarstapi and Hellnar make it an easy and rewarding stop when exploring the peninsula.
Whether you visit Gatklettur as part of a self-drive journey or a guided tour from Reykjavik, the area provides a balance of accessible scenery and striking natural features. Combined with nearby villages, walking routes, and attractions across the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Gatklettur fits naturally into both short visits and longer itineraries in West Iceland.
By planning around weather conditions, daylight, and nearby accommodation options, you can experience Gatklettur safely and at your own pace while enjoying one of Iceland’s most distinctive coastal landscapes.
