Paths and tracks

In times past there were a large number of paths in the area around the glacier,some of which still exist and are still passable. One trail follows the coastline and remains in reasonable condition, although some boulders have intruded onto parts of the track. This track is long and best followed in several stages. A second track, known as Efstivegur, lies at the foot of the glacier.

Gufuskálar

Around Gufuskálar, in the lava field, there are a number of presumed fish-drying stone structures. They are just a 10-minute walk from the road. On the opposite side of the present-day road is a track leading to Írskrabrunnur (Irish well). A short, clearly marked path leads from Írskrabrunnur to Gufuskálavör landing, where trails remain from the keels of boats dragged up onto land after fishing.

Móðuvör–Skarðsvík–Öndverðarnes (4 km/2.5 miles)

This is a pleasant footpath that passes through Skarðsvík, an attractive little bay with light-coloured sand. On Öndverðarnes are relics of fishing and domestic occupation. An ancient well named Fálki was a water source for the residents of Öndverðarnes.

Öndverðarneshólar

From the road to Öndverðarnes there are several paths leading to hillocks. The walk to Vatnsborgarhóll and nearby crater Vatnsborg is 2 km/ 1.5 miles and the walk to Grashóll is another 1 km / 0.6 miles. There are delightful paths from the hillocks leading down to Skálasnagi and Öndverðarnes, or into Beruvík.

Klofningsrétt in Beruvík–Litlalón–Hólahólar (4 km/2.5 miles)

This is an attractive coastal path. Coastline features are varied and the path is easy on the feet, passing mostly over grassland. Beruvík was once a lively community while Hólahólar was a large homestead.

Djúpalónssandur–Dritvík (1 km/ 0.6 miles)

The path from Djúpalónssandur to Dritvík is easy and popular. On Djúpalónssandur there are some large boulders fishermen lifted to show off their strength.

On Suðurbarði there is an old labyrinth, made by fishermen  for amusement. In the 18^th century Dritvík was a bustling community of up to 600 people during fishing season. It is possible to continue from Dritvík along the old fishermen’s track past Beruvíkuhraun to Sandhólar. The entire route from Djúpalónssandur to Dritvík and on to Sandhólar is 4 km (2.5 miles).

Svalþúfa-Malarrif (2 km, 1.5 miles)

A short path winds along the coast, passing by the lava pillars Lóndrangar. It´s possible to start at Malarrif as well, since both places have a good parking place.

Eysteinsdalur

The road up the Eysteinsdalur valley runs alongside Móðulækur, towards the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Beautiful short walks from the road include Rauðhóll and Sjónarhóll. The dolerite-capped hill Klukka and the waterfall Klukkufoss are just a short distance from the road. Blágil is a deep ravine that is easily reached. An abundance of peaks await visitors. Hreggnasi (469m/1539 ft) is quite an easy climb, while Bárðarkista (668m/2192 ft) and West Geldingafell (830m/2723 ft) are the highest of the glacier’s foothills and have summits that are more challenging.