Vatnshellir Cave

When embarking on your trip around West Iceland, the Vatnshellir Lava Cave in the Snaefellsnes peninsula is a hidden gem that is not to be missed. 

After meeting our guides and fitting ourselves with a helmet and flashlight, we descended approximately 200 metres down a spiral staircase into the depths of the impressive cave system. Here our guide showed us the wondrous formations and colours of the lava tube. We were then directed down a secondary staircase where the Guide showed us another cave system that had been connected to the upper cave from the lava flow.

When we descended to the bottom level of the cave, our Guide showed us the impressive water table system of the cave and we even got to take a sip of the water from deep in the cave which we were told is some of the purest in Iceland. At one point, our Guide had us shut off our flashlights and stand in the pitch darkness, which truly was an incredible experience at those depths. It was so dark you could not even see your hand in front of your face.

Located just 10 minutes from Hellnar, this is a cave should definitely be on your Iceland bucket list. Be sure to bring a pair of sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for some stairs. Also note that in order to see this magnificent cave, you must be part of a guided tour so be sure to book your tickets in advance!

Location: Snaefellsjokull National Park