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Description
At the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, are some interesting places to visit and explore. Past the golden sandy Skarðsvík beach, a stark contrast to the majority of black sand beaches in Iceland, you reach the lava cliffs of Svörtuloft with its red lighthouse. An excellent viewing panel was put up by the cliffs not long ago for a better and secure view of the cliff dwelling seabirds. The natural arch by the lighthouse is a spectacular part of the cliff. This is one of the best places in Iceland (apart from the West Fjords) for spotting pohjankiisla and karimetso . There is a large colony with ruokki , etelänkiisla , pikkukajava and myrskylintu . In summer look out for male virta-alli at sea. It is also an excellent place to see Killer Whales (Orcinus orca) in early summer. On the grassy tops of the cliffs look out for pulmunen and kiiruna .
Details
Access
From the main road at the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (called Útnesvegur in Icelandic), nr. 574, the distance to Svörtuloft is about five and a half kilometer after you take a turn west of Öndverðarnesvegur nr. 579. At the end of the bumpy gravel road, you take a turn south to Svörtuloft and drive a few kilometers. Here you will find a small parking lot (max. 8 vehicles).
Terrain and Habitat
Grassland , SeaConditions
Rocky , Open landscapeCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Spring , SummerBest time to visit
SummerRoute
Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
Sailing by the tip of Snæfellsnes peninsula, past Svörtuloft is serious business. Throughout the centuries there have been drastic incidents and casualties. Ships have stranded, and as anyone can imagine looking at the sharp and black lava cliffs, this is not a good place to strand a ship. Most of them are quickly blown to pieces by the shore. When you add the strong currents attacking the shore from the Atlantic Ocean, it is most likely a place impossible to survive. This is perhaps one of the reasons that a lighthouse was built on the cliffs.