Access and Information
Grábrók Craters are located along Route 1 (the Ring Road) in Norðurárdalur, Borgarfjörður. Access to Stóra-Grábrók is excellent, and boardwalks and steps have been constructed all the way to the summit. Hiking trails circle both Grábrók and Grábrókarfell.
The area is open year-round, although access may become difficult during periods of heavy snow, and visitors are advised to exercise caution.
The site is managed by the Iceland Nature Conservation Agency, with year-round ranger presence.
Visitor Guidelines
- The extraction of materials, land disturbance, and any alteration of the landscape are prohibited, unless carried out in consultation with the Iceland Nature Conservation Agency.
- Pedestrian access is permitted within the protected area, provided visitors stay on marked paths and follow good environmental practices.
- Camping requires a permit.
- Vehicle access within the protected area is only permitted with approval from the Iceland Nature Conservation Agency and landowners. Off-road driving and driving outside marked tracks are prohibited.
- Visitors are welcome to enjoy the area and are encouraged to respect nature and fellow visitors.
Protection Status
Grábrók Craters were first designated a natural monument in 1962, with the protection status revised in 1974.
The site consists of three craters: Litla-Grábrók, Stóra-Grábrók, and Grábrókarfell. The craters belong to a volcanic system that extends far west across the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and forms part of the Ljósufjöll volcanic system. Lava from the eruptions covers a large portion of Norðurárdalur.
The summit of Grábrók offers excellent panoramic views across much of the valley. From the top, visitors can clearly see the extent of the lava flow and how it blocked the valley, forming Hreðarvatn.
The area also preserves important historical remains. At the edge of Grábrók stands an old stone-built sheep corral, used between 1831 and 1872. Another historic sheep corral can be found near Grábrókarfell, which replaced the earlier structure and remained in use until 1992.