Excursion Hiking in the berserk lava fields tour at Grundarfjordur

Discover the rugged Berserk Lava Fields in the central western peninsula, Snaefellsnes, one of the most Saga-invested parts of the country.

Berserk Lava Fields

Depart the pier and drive 30 minutes to the lava field, which covers most of the western part of the Helgafell County and stretches between the mountain slopes and the sea. The sources of the lava field are four prominent, but differently sized scoria craters forming an east-west row from the Ogress Pass (Kerlingarskard). They probably erupted at short intervals approximately 3,600-4,000 years ago, the largest one first and the smallest last, almost damming the Lava Bay in the east, where the old main road crosses it.

Eyrbyggja Saga

The lava field is also central to the story of two men which appears in Eyrbyggja Saga. One of them fell in love with the chieftain's daughter and was promised her hand in marriage on the condition that he build a path through the rugged lava field. The men went "berserk" and completed the task in a remarkably short time. When they finished the chieftain arranged for their murder and had them buried close to the bridle path.

Hiking Path

Take the walking path to the lava fields of Berserkjahraun, which roughly translates to "mad-man lava field", a place where green moss partly covers ancient black lava rocks surrounded by pyramid-shaped mountains and the sea. Enjoy a photo stop at Vatnaleið view point during the hike, before making the 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Berserk Lava Fields, Snaefellsnes Penninsula

Note

Please note: This excursion entails extensive hiking and walking for a total of 90 minutes over gravel and rough surfaces, making this tour less suitable for guests with limited mobility or guests using a wheelchair. The path is approximately 1.2 kilometre long. Warm, layered clothing appropriate to the local weather (including wind/weatherproof outerwear) and sturdy waterproof hiking shoes are recommended since the path may include a river crossing.