What is the connection to Jules Verne?

In Jules Verne's 1864 novel 'Journey to the Center of the Earth,' the characters descend into the Earth through the crater of Snæfellsjökull. This literary connection has made the glacier-capped volcano one of Iceland's most famous landmarks.

Can you climb to the summit of Snæfellsjökull?

Yes, guided summit tours are available in summer, typically from May to September. The climb takes 8–12 hours round trip and requires crampons and ice axes. Weather conditions must be favorable.

Is Snæfellsjökull disappearing?

Yes, Snæfellsjökull has been retreating rapidly and could disappear entirely within decades. The glacier has lost significant mass since measurements began, and some scientists predict it may be ice-free by mid-century.

What is Snæfellsjökull National Park?

Established in 2001, Snæfellsjökull National Park covers the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It protects the glacier, lava fields, coastline, and geological formations. Entry to the park is free.

Can you see Snæfellsjökull from Reykjavik?

On clear days, Snæfellsjökull is visible from Reykjavik across Faxaflói bay, approximately 120 km away. The glacier-capped peak is a distinctive landmark on the western horizon.

Snæfellsjökull: Glacier, Volcano, National Park

A 1,446-meter glacier-capped stratovolcano on the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Jules Verne set Journey to the Center of the Earth here, and the glacier is now retreating fast.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

About 2.5 hours from Reykjavik. Visible on clear days from the capital.

Snæfellsjökull has been famous since Jules Verne chose it as the gateway to the Earth's interior in his 1864 novel. The glacier sits atop a 700,000-year-old stratovolcano at the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Today it is the centerpiece of Snæfellsjökull National Park, though scientists warn the glacier may disappear within decades.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

Summit attempts require experienced guides, proper glacier equipment, and favorable weather. Conditions change rapidly at altitude. Never attempt the summit alone.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Best for

Literary fame + summit views

Jules Verne fans and mountaineers alike.

Access

National park roads

Drive to the base; guided tours for the summit.

Pro tip

Visit before it's gone

The glacier is retreating fast; see it while you can.

What to Expect

A glacier-capped volcano visible from far away
Lava fields, caves, and coastal scenery in the national park
Summit tours available in summer with proper equipment
A peak that has figured in art and literature for centuries
Rapidly retreating glacier; visit while ice still caps the peak
Coastal views from the national park trails

Nearby Attractions

Arnarstapi and Hellnar coastal villages with cliff walks
Vatnshellir lava cave guided tours
Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach and shipwreck remains
Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall near Grundarfjörður
Lóndrangar basalt cliffs and volcanic plug formations
Stykkishólmur harbor town and Flatey island ferries

How to Get There

About 190 km from Reykjavik (2.5-hour drive)
Route 54 circles the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
National park visitor center at Hellissandur
Regular car sufficient for park roads; 4x4 for F-roads
Bus service available from Reykjavik in summer

Best Time to Visit

June–August for summit tours and longest daylight
Spring and autumn for changeable weather and fewer crowds
Winter offers northern lights but limited access
Clear days provide best views from Reykjavik
Check weather before any visit; the peninsula is exposed

Planning help

Snaefellsjokull (Snæfellsjökull) Glacier FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

All glaciers