A guided descent into an ancient lava tube.
Vatnshellir is an eight thousand year old lava cave near the tip of Snaefellsnes, explored on a guided walk down a spiral staircase into the dark.
Inside, colourful rock formations and total silence reveal how lava once flowed beneath the surface.
The Snaefellsnes peninsula reaches west into the sea about two hours from Reykjavik, an easy and rewarding self drive at any time of year.
The places and moments worth slowing down for.
A long tunnel left behind by flowing lava.
A spiral staircase leads down into the cave.
Mineral hues and formations in the lamplight.
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Other places within easy reach for a longer trip.
Quick answers for planning your visit.
Vatnshellir Cave is in West Iceland, Iceland. It is on the southwest coast within Snaefellsjokull National Park.
Vatnshellir is known for guided tours into a lava tube, a spiral staircase descent, colourful rock formations and its setting in Snaefellsjokull National Park.
The best time to visit is year round, and every season here has its own character.
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours here, depending on the weather and how much of the surroundings you want to explore.