Gatklettur Arch
A dramatic natural stone arch carved by the sea, set against Iceland's rugged coastline with abundant birdlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Gatklettur Arch
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic natural stone arch carved by the sea, set against Iceland's rugged coastline with abundant birdlife.
"The beauty is mesmerizing, with breathtaking views of seas in the rock at seaside."
🧥 Dress for Wind!
It's often very windy here. Bring an extra layer and waterproofs for comfort.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The paths can be rocky and uneven, so wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gatklettur Arch
Arnarstapi
A magnificent natural stone arch carved by the sea, offering dramatic coastal views.
Arnarstapi Coastal Path
Arnarstapi to Hellnar
A scenic walk along basalt cliffs with abundant birdlife and stunning ocean vistas.
Bird Cliffs
Near Gatklettur Arch
Witness fulmars and gulls nesting on the dramatic cliffs surrounding the arch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Timing is Key for Photos
Arrive early or stay late to avoid the busiest times, especially during peak tourist season, to truly soak in the dramatic scenery.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress for Wind!
It's often very windy here. Bring an extra layer and waterproofs for comfort.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The paths can be rocky and uneven, so wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
📸 Capture the Light
Sunrise and sunset offer incredible photo opportunities with dramatic lighting.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Walk the paths in both directions for different viewpoints of the arch and cliffs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress for Wind!
It's often very windy here. Bring an extra layer and waterproofs for comfort.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The paths can be rocky and uneven, so wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
📸 Capture the Light
Sunrise and sunset offer incredible photo opportunities with dramatic lighting.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Walk the paths in both directions for different viewpoints of the arch and cliffs.
🅿️ Free Parking Available
There's convenient free parking near the main viewpoints.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty and unique rock formations of Gatklettur Arch and the surrounding coastline. The well-maintained paths and accessible viewpoints make it a popular stop, though some find it quite touristy. The dramatic scenery, birdlife, and coastal vistas are consistently praised, with many recommending a visit during sunrise or sunset for the best photographic opportunities.
"Words cannot describe this beautiful section in Iceland. The rock formations by the ocean. It was extremely windy, so dress up an extra layer but the beauty is mesmerizing.
There is multiple viewpoints and nice observation deck at the main rock formation making it accessible for pictures."
Ram Ramakrishnan
"Visited here May 16, early afternoon. Rather busy spot, with well maintained walking paths along the shore/cliff side.
Very photogenic rock cliffs, with blue water constantly hitting the cliff side - entertaining to watch a group sea kayak through here also."
Jen Winkler
"Gatklettur offers breathtaking views of seas in the rock at seaside, there several area to visited while walking the trails alone the seas."
James Royal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gatklettur Arch is located near the village of Arnarstapi on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. It's accessible by car, with free parking available nearby. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Icelandic landscape.
While not a formal national park, Gatklettur Arch is situated within a protected natural area on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known for its unique geological formations and birdlife.
The best way to explore is by walking the coastal path that stretches between Arnarstapi and Hellnar. This trail offers stunning views of the arch and surrounding cliffs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Gatklettur Arch. Access to the arch and the surrounding coastal paths is free for all visitors.
Gatklettur Arch is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
No booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit Gatklettur Arch spontaneously as part of your Snæfellsnes Peninsula exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for capturing the arch and the coastline.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arch and the surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help enhance the blues of the ocean and sky. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Yes, there are multiple viewpoints and well-maintained observation decks along the coastal path that offer excellent perspectives for photographing the arch and the sea.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Allocate at least 30-60 minutes to fully enjoy the views, walk along the coastal path, and take photos. If you plan to hike further to Hellnar, allow more time.
Yes, there are restroom facilities (WC) located near the main viewpoints. There are also restaurants and cafes in Arnarstapi for refreshments.
The main paths are well-maintained, but some sections can be a bit rocky and uneven. It's generally accessible for most visitors, but caution is advised.
The cliffs near Gatklettur Arch are a haven for seabirds, including fulmars and various species of gulls. You might also spot seals in the water below.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, and consider bringing a wide-angle lens and a tripod. The coastal path offers diverse perspectives, so take your time to find the most compelling compositions. Be prepared for wind and changing weather conditions, which can add to the dramatic atmosphere of your photographs.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Coastal Path
This walk is not just about the arch; it's about immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Iceland's coastline. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife, including fulmars and gulls, that nest on the cliffs.
The path provides numerous vantage points to appreciate the unique geological features and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and capture stunning photographs. Photography Tips for Gatklettur Arch
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the arch, the surrounding cliffs, and the expansive ocean. A polarizing filter can be invaluable for cutting down glare on the water and enhancing the rich blues of the sky and sea. To avoid crowds and get unobstructed shots, aim to visit early in the morning or later in the evening.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives; sometimes, a slightly lower viewpoint can emphasize the arch's scale against the sky, while a higher vantage point might capture more of the coastal landscape. Don't forget to look for interesting foreground elements, like the textured rocks or the crashing waves, to add depth to your images.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit