Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Saxholl Crater is a volcanic formation inside Snaefellsjokull National Park. Rising about 358 feet (109 meters), a well-built metal staircase leads to the summit, giving visitors easy access to the top without a challenging hike.
Saxholl was formed during a single geological event and consists of two craters. Most visitors hike only the first one because of its convenient location near the road. The path to the summit is safe and easy to follow. At the top, you’ll find sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding lava fields.
For those considering Snaefellsnes tours, Saxholl is often included on guided itineraries. It’s also a popular stop on many volcano tours and nature tours in the region. Adventurous travelers can join a tour on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in a 4x4 SUV for a scenic journey combined with unforgettable viewpoints.
Key Takeaways
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Beginner Hikers Welcome: The shallow staircase and comparatively short climb make Saxholl a feasible adventure for even amateur hikers.
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Best Time To Go: Spring to early autumn provides the best conditions for scaling Saxholl Crater. In the winter, the stairs may be icy or snow-covered, so you may want to buy or rent some crampons for your boots to keep you stable.
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Surrounded by Beauty: Saxholl’s location in Snaefellsjokull National Park and proximity to other notable natural attractions make it a convenient stop.
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No Fees or Guide Required: Free and self-guided, this is an easy addition to your Icelandic itinerary.
Hiking Saxholl Crater
Scaling the stairs to the top of Saxholl Crater is one of the most popular activities in the National Park. The large, free parking lot at its base makes it easily accessible by rental car.
After parking, visitors of most ages can set off on the 396-step shallow, metal staircase to the observation platform at the crater’s peak. In addition to providing a service to visitors, the staircase constructed along Saxholl helps preserve the formation for future generations to enjoy.
Most guests find that the Saxholl Crater hike takes somewhere between 10 and 20 minutes either way and is moderate in difficulty. There’s even a rest spot, should you need a breather during your climb.
The ultimate reward for this trek is the unobstructed, 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. From the platform, you’ll be able to see (and photograph) the Atlantic Ocean, the Snaefellsjokull Glacier, the lava fields of the peninsula, and much more.
Saxholl Crater History
As craters go, Saxholl is relatively young. Geologists estimate that it was formed between 3,000 and 4,000 years ago by a phreatomagmatic eruption, when hot lava and water come in contact. Because these volcanic eruptions are especially explosive, Saxholl was likely created by just one geological event.
Because of its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is the meeting of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, Iceland experiences frequent volcanic activity. And the country’s geography has been shaped by it in many ways. Saxholl Crater is just one example of the many geological features in Iceland that were created by a volcanic event.
Another notable volcanic site on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is the previously mentioned Eldborg Crater, which is between 5,000 and 6,000 years old. And, of course, the Snaefellsjokull Glacier looms larger than any other natural feature in the National Park at 4,744 feet (1,446 meters) tall.
How To Get to Saxholl Crater
Saxholl lies within the boundaries of Snaefellsjokull National Park, which is also home to waterfalls, lava fields, startlingly beautiful coastal views, and the glacier after which it’s named. It’s only about a 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) drive from the crater to the glacier-topped volcano of the Snaefellsjokull Glacier, another must-see natural attraction.
From Reykjavik, Saxholl Crater is about a 138-mile (222-kilometer) drive up the Western Coast of Iceland on Snaefellsnesvegur Road, also known as Route 54.
Self-Drive Tours to Saxholl Crater
Any self-drive tours that incorporate the Snaefellsnes Peninsula make it easy to include a stop to hike Saxholl Crater. Here are some of our most popular itineraries:
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9-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour: Search for the northern lights on this winter self-drive tour, but be sure to take care exploring the craters in icy weather.
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10-Day Ring Road and Snaefellsnes Peninsula Self-Drive Tour: This self-guided summer journey includes a full day at Snaefellsnes, where you can easily hike to Saxholl.
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2-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour With Hot Springs & the Golden Circle: Swimming, bird watching, kayaking, caving, and hiking Saxholl are all optional activities offered in this 15-day itinerary.
Where To Stay Near Saxholl Crater
Known as “Iceland in Miniature” because of its wide range of geographic and notably Icelandic features, Snaefellsnes is one of the most popular destinations in the country. A variety of accommodations for all preferences and budgets are available:
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Fosshotel Hellnar: A three-star hotel right next to the Snaefellsjokull National Park Visitor Center with an on-site restaurant and scenic terrace.
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The Freezer Hostel: Budget-conscious travelers looking for community can check out this comfortable hostel in the village of Rif.
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Kast Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse with a range of booking options, featuring a restaurant with locally sourced ingredients and a swimming pool with two hot tubs right next door.
FAQs About Saxholl Crater
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Saxholl Crater.
1. Is Saxholl Crater active?
No, it's considered an extinct volcano, meaning it's not expected to erupt in the future. Its last eruption occurred roughly 3,000 years ago.
2. Is it safe to climb Saxholl Crater?
Yes, it's safe for most visitors. The metal stairs make it more accessible, though weather conditions such as strong winds and ice may increase safety concerns, especially in winter.
3. Do I need a guide to visit Saxholl Crater?
No guide is required. The site is designed for a self-guided experience, and the pathways and other areas of interest are clearly marked and easy to navigate for visitors.
4. Are there any facilities at Saxholl Crater?
There is a parking area, but no visitor center or restrooms on-site. The closest visitor center and restrooms are at the Snaefellsnes Visitor Center, located on the main road leading to Saxholl.
A Vista Worth Climbing For
Saxholl Crater stands as a testament to Iceland's volcanic origins. While Iceland has numerous volcanic craters, Saxholl distinguishes itself by offering visitors relatively easy access and unparalleled views. The crater's unique geological formations and the surrounding landscapes create a captivating experience for those who venture to its rim.
Want to keep exploring around Saxholl Crater? There are plenty of other things to do on Snaefellsnes Peninsula, so make sure to explore the other wonders of Snaefellsjokull National Park while you’re there.
