Snaefellsnes National Park: Cliffs & Coastlines of Djupalonssandur & Arnarstapi
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Port
Grundarfjordur, Iceland
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$250
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Visit some of the most beautiful sections of Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with its magnificent cliffs, phenomenal volcanic rock formations and an amazing glacier-topped stratovolcano.
Take a panoramic drive along the peninsula's mesmerizing shores to reach its southwestern tip. Here, Djupalonssandur -- a serene black-pebbled beach -- basks in the sun. Once a thriving fishing village, this magnificent stretch of land is now uninhabited. The shoreline features four legendary lifting stones once used to measure the strength of fishermen before they were hired for work. After testing your mettle on these natural 'free weights', grab a handful of the black pebbles from the shore to appreciate their silky softness. Worn smooth over time from the rushing tide, these supple, rounded stones produce a soothing sound as the waves rush through them.
You'll stop briefly at the Malarrif Visitor Center for Snaefellsnes National Park. The area features stunning volcanic rock formations on the beach, including the Valasnös cliff that juts out over the sea then dives into the rushing water.
Travel to the enchanting fishing hamlet of Arnarstapi, which plays a starring role in several of the Icelandic sagas (ancient legends). Enjoy time to stroll along the area's splendid cliffs, where countless seabirds gather to nest. Keep an eye out for kittiwakes, fulmars, razorbills and a vast colony of Arctic terns. Marvel at the spectacular volcanic rock formations, including timeworn volcanic plugs and three blowholes. When the wind is strong, fountains of seawater gush skyward.
After a short drive to the peninsula's rugged southwestern shore, you will head back to the pier with a panoramic drive through the countryside. Take in the sweeping ocean views and, in the distance, the majesty of Snæfellsjökull -- a strato-volcano long covered by a dense glacier. This steep, conical volcano last erupted in AD 200 but claims fame due to its starring role in Jules Verne's 1864 novel Journey to the Center of the Earth, which features the volcano as the entrance to a passage leading to the earth's core.
Please note: Tour requires extensive walking over uneven surfaces. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Arctic seabirds migrate away after mid-August. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. Wear comfortable walking shoes. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. Views are weather permitting. Parents traveling with children under the age of 3 must rent a child's car seat from the tour operator; please see the Destinations staff on board. You cannot use your car seat from home in Iceland.