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"Where the glacier meets the sky, the land ceases to be earthly, instead the earth becomes one with the heavens; no sorrows dwell there anymore and therefore joy is not necessary, beauty alone reigns there, beyond all demands."
Halldor Laxness, from "Heimsljos" ("World Light")
Snaefellsjokull National Park was founded on June 28, 2001. It lies in the outer regions of Snaefellsnes peninsula and covers 170 square kilometres. The Snaefellsjokull National Park is the first national park in Iceland that reaches out into the sea, and in many people's opinion it was high time the sea and shore were given their due respect. After all, Icelanders have lived close to the ocean from the time of the Settlement in the 9th century. The Park's uniqueness derives from the harmony between man and sea.
The Park is perfect for exploring the adventurous world of the ocean, coastline and beach, seabirds and other life in and by the sea. Although this marine factor is the pride of the Park, it is also a marvel for those interested in geology - and especially volcanology. Conditions for birdwatching are good; bird-life is abundant both by the coast and in the lowlands.
Snaefellsjokull glacier is also famous for great powers and energy that many spiritually-minded people sense from it. It is said to be one of the seven greatest energy centres of the earth.
There are no campsites within the National Park but along the boundaries, both on the south and north sides, there are campsites, lodges, hotels and restaurants. The Park is excellent for hikes and walks. A national road circles the Park and there are trails leading up to the glacier. In the Park's vicinity there are tour companies that offer activities such as snowmobile rides up on the ice, hiking, horseback tours, sea angling and whale watching, to mention a few. Other centres specialize in relaxation and tranquillity, bringing in the mystique and power of the Glacier.
The Park's Visitor's Centre at Hellnar is open daily from 10:00 18:00 between May 20th September 10th. Reservation can be made for groups at other times.
The Park's information office is at Klettsbúð 7 in Hellissandur (in Post Office building) where it is possible to get information about what's on at any given time. The Park's telephone number is (+ 354) 436 6860. The email address is snaefellsjokull@ust.is ,the website is www.ust.is .
