Hiking in Snæfellsnes

Snæfellsnes is often called 'Iceland in miniature' — lava fields, black beaches, bird cliffs, fishing villages and, presiding over it all, Snæfellsjökull, the glacier-capped volcano Jules Verne chose as the entrance to the centre of the earth.

Hiking here ranges from a serious glaciated ascent of the 1,446-metre volcano to gentle coastal paths past sea arches, seal colonies and dramatic basalt shores.

The peninsula packs an astonishing variety of Icelandic scenery into a compact, accessible area a couple of hours from Reykjavík, so you can climb toward a glacier in the morning and walk a wild coastline in the afternoon.

With the volcano's mystical reputation, the ever-present sea and the sheer diversity underfoot, it's one of the most rewarding and varied hiking regions in the country, open to everyone from casual walkers to those chasing a summit.

Hiking of two kinds: gentle-to-moderate coastal and lava-field walks on marked paths past cliffs, beaches and sea stacks, suitable for most people and families; and a much more serious ascent of Snæfellsjökull, a glaciated 1,446 m volcano that requires glacier equipment, skills and ideally a guide, as it crosses crevassed ice.

The coastal walking is straightforward but exposed to wind and weather off the Atlantic, while the summit is a proper mountaineering day. Expect changeable conditions, dramatic scenery and, in places, seabirds and seals.

Choose your outing to match your ability — there's excellent easy hiking here without ever setting foot on the glacier. Good footwear, waterproofs and warm layers are essential whatever you pick. The variety, from sea-level strolls to a glacier summit, is the region's great appeal.

Hike the coastal and lava-field routes from late spring to autumn, roughly May to September; the glacier summit is best in spring/early summer and only with the right skills.

For the coastal paths — around Arnarstapi, Hellnar, Djúpalónssandur and the cliffs — just bring boots, waterproofs and warm layers and enjoy well-marked, accessible walking. For Snæfellsjökull itself, go with a mountain guide unless you're experienced on glaciers, and carry crampons, ice axe and glacier kit.

Check the forecast, as Atlantic weather is fickle, and start early on the bigger objectives. Base yourself in the peninsula (Grundarfjörður, Ólafsvík or Hellnar) to reach the trailheads easily. No permit is needed. Match the walk to your experience and you'll find some of Iceland's most varied and satisfying hiking.