Saxhóll Crater
Climb an ancient volcanic cone via a unique metal staircase for breathtaking panoramic views of Iceland's dramatic landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Saxhóll Crater
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb an ancient volcanic cone via a unique metal staircase for breathtaking panoramic views of Iceland's dramatic landscapes.
"The stairs are very useful and the view from the top is undescribable."
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
While the stairs are great, the terrain around the crater can be uneven. Good footwear is a must!
🌬️ Prepare for Wind!
The wind can be intense here. Hold onto the railings and enjoy the dramatic experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crater Rim
Top of Saxhóll Crater
Stand atop this ancient volcanic cone for breathtaking 360-degree views of lava fields, mountains, and the distant sea.
The Metal Staircase
Ascent to the crater top
A unique and accessible 396-step metal staircase makes climbing this 100-meter high crater surprisingly easy.
Panoramic Lava Fields
Surrounding Saxhóll Crater
Explore the vast, rugged lava fields that stretch out from the base of the crater, a testament to Iceland's volcanic power.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind!
Quick Climb, Big Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
While the stairs are great, the terrain around the crater can be uneven. Good footwear is a must!
🌬️ Prepare for Wind!
The wind can be intense here. Hold onto the railings and enjoy the dramatic experience.
📸 Capture the Scale
Drone shots truly reveal the perfect shape of Saxhóll Crater.
⏱️ Quick Stop
Allow about 30 minutes total for parking, climbing, and enjoying the views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
While the stairs are great, the terrain around the crater can be uneven. Good footwear is a must!
🌬️ Prepare for Wind!
The wind can be intense here. Hold onto the railings and enjoy the dramatic experience.
📸 Capture the Scale
Drone shots truly reveal the perfect shape of Saxhóll Crater.
⏱️ Quick Stop
Allow about 30 minutes total for parking, climbing, and enjoying the views.
🚗 Free Parking Available
There's convenient free parking right at the base of the crater.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Saxhóll Crater as a highlight of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, marveling at the easy climb via its unique metal staircase and the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. It's lauded as an accessible, quick, and rewarding stop for all ages, offering a glimpse into Iceland's volcanic past. Some note the potential for strong winds, which can add to the adventure.
"I would say that this crater was one of the highlight of my Iceland trip. The stairs are very useful and the view from the top is undescribable. You can observe other craters, the glacier, mountains and even the sea. Absolutely visit this place. Nice spot at night to try to see the northern lights!"
Michele Coluccia
"Thank God the stairs exist !!
We climbed there with an awful strong wind so we were glad to have them.
The view is amazing and it's really surprising to stand upon an old Crater"
Valentine Petit
"This is a fast visit. The crater has a great set of metal stairs that circle the wall making the climb pretty easy. There are many stairs and they look imposing but they are short easy steps to navigate up or down. They are also slip resistant so should be fine when they are wet as well. Snow or ice would be trickier. There is a bench halfway up to rest and regroup. Views from the top are amazing. The crater does not have a lake like the Kerid Crater but its interesting to climb none the less. Free parking, no WC at this location. Plan 10 minutes to climb...probably 30 min total. Wind does make the climb harder so use caution when its very windy."
Ingrid Hill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saxhóll Crater is located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland, easily accessible by car. It's situated along the main road, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the peninsula. Free parking is available at the base of the crater.
Yes, Saxhóll Crater is located within the Snaefellsjokull National Park, a protected area known for its diverse geological features and stunning landscapes.
Absolutely! A rental car is the most common and recommended way to reach Saxhóll Crater, offering flexibility to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula at your own pace. The roads leading to it are generally well-maintained.
Public transport options to Saxhóll Crater are very limited. It is best visited with a rental car or as part of an organized tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
From Reykjavik, take Route 1 (Ring Road) west, then turn onto Route 54 towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Follow Route 54 until you reach the signs for Saxhóll Crater. The drive offers scenic views along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Saxhóll Crater. It is freely accessible to the public.
Saxhóll Crater is open 24/7, as it is an outdoor natural attraction. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
There is no admission fee to visit Saxhóll Crater. The site is free to access for all visitors.
Yes, you can visit Saxhóll Crater at night. Some visitors find it a unique spot to try and see the Northern Lights, though caution is advised due to darkness and potential wind.
While there are no specific restrictions, visitors are encouraged to stay on the designated paths and stairs to protect the fragile volcanic environment. Be mindful of strong winds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb up Saxhóll Crater is very quick, typically taking only about 5-10 minutes to ascend the 396 metal steps. Including time to enjoy the views and descend, a total visit usually takes around 30 minutes.
Climbing Saxhóll Crater is considered easy. The well-constructed metal staircase with short, slip-resistant steps makes it accessible for most fitness levels.
From the top, you'll get spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields, distant mountains, the Snaefellsjokull glacier (on a clear day), and even the sea.
No, there are no restrooms or WC facilities directly at Saxhóll Crater. It's advisable to use facilities at your previous or next stop.
Yes, Saxhóll Crater is very suitable for children. The easy climb via stairs makes it an enjoyable and safe activity for families.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the crater offers stunning panoramic shots. The metal staircase itself is also a unique photographic element, especially with the dramatic landscape as a backdrop. Consider drone photography to capture the crater's perfect shape from above.
Daylight hours provide the best natural light for photography. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer dramatic lighting on the lava fields and crater.
Drone photography is permitted and highly recommended to capture the full scale and perfect circular shape of Saxhóll Crater, as seen in many popular travel videos.
For wide-angle shots of the crater and landscape, use a wider aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. For dramatic skies, consider a polarizing filter. Be prepared for wind affecting stability.
The entire rim of the crater offers excellent viewpoints. There's also a bench halfway up the stairs, which can be a good spot for a mid-climb photo or a rest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress children in layers, as the wind can be quite strong. The short duration of the visit also means it's easy to fit in between other activities, preventing meltdowns and keeping everyone engaged. The unique volcanic landscape provides a great opportunity for kids to learn about geology in a fun, hands-on way.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Hikers will appreciate the straightforward ascent and the expansive vistas. While not a strenuous trek, the climb offers a sense of accomplishment and a unique perspective on the volcanic terrain. The surrounding lava fields also present opportunities for short, exploratory walks for those who wish to venture further.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Consider visiting during golden hour for dramatic lighting. The contrast between the dark volcanic rock, the green moss (in summer), and the sky can create stunning images. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your shots, but also requires stable equipment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvel: The Formation of Saxhóll Crater
+1The surrounding landscape is dominated by vast, rugged lava fields, a direct result of past volcanic eruptions. These fields stretch out from the crater, creating a stark and beautiful environment that showcases the raw power of nature. Exploring these areas, even just visually from the crater rim, provides a profound sense of Iceland's fiery geological history.
This geological wonder is a key attraction on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as 'Miniature Iceland' due to its diverse landscapes. Saxhóll offers visitors a tangible connection to the forces that shaped this unique island nation.
Navigating the Climb: The Saxhóll Staircase
+1The staircase winds its way up the side of the crater, offering a safe and controlled way to experience the climb. There are even designated resting spots, such as a bench located halfway up, allowing visitors to pause, catch their breath, and take in the evolving views. This feature significantly enhances the visitor experience, making it a quick and enjoyable activity.
While the stairs are a great aid, it's important to note that strong winds can still make the climb feel more challenging. Visitors are advised to hold onto the railings and be mindful of gusts, especially on particularly blustery days.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Gem of Iceland
Exploring Snaefellsnes allows visitors to experience a microcosm of Iceland's natural wonders. From the iconic Kirkjufell mountain to the basalt columns of Arnarstapi and the seals at Ytri Tunga beach, the peninsula offers a rich tapestry of sights and activities. Saxhóll Crater fits perfectly into this itinerary as an easily accessible and visually striking stop.
Many travelers find the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to be less crowded than some of Iceland's more famous southern attractions, offering a more intimate and authentic experience. It's an ideal destination for those who love hiking, scenic drives, and discovering natural beauty off the beaten path.
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