Skarðsvík Golden Beach | The Unique & Exquisite Beach in Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Basic Information

Iceland is a country of wonders, where you can find something unique at almost every turn. From jaw-dropping wonders to simple serene beaches, everything is found in the lap of this country. One such beautiful beach is Skarðsvík golden beach. Skarðsvík is a tiny and charming beach with huge basaltic rock formations and a golden sandy beach. The picturesque beach is located on the northwestern tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in west Iceland. It is based close to the community of Öndverðarnes in Snæfellsjökull National Park. Adjacent to the beach is a small cave which was once used as a grave. This natural gem with contrasting imagery looks exceptionally beautiful.

Sunset at Skarðsvík Golden Beach - Iceland Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour Guide

Know More about the Golden Beach

The bright blue water of the sandy beach strongly attracts, especially if you have decided to go on a sunny day. This place offers a sharp contrast different from many other black sand beaches in the country. Skarðsvík will remind you more of a Mediterranean shoreline. This might be because of its aquamarine, turquoise water which is surrounded by the dark-toned and volcanic landscape. This is how the diverse landscapes of the country can truly take explorers by surprise.

However, it is strictly advised not to bathe or soak feet in the water. The conditions in the water are likely to be dangerous due to strong currents. These conditions are unpredictable. Hence, to be on a safer side, it is recommended not to go too close to the waterline. At times, the Skarðsvík beach can be uproariously windy as well. The tourists should visit the beach at low-tide to make sure that they are completely safe.

The Skarðsvík golden beach is one among the less crowded spots of Iceland. Perhaps this is one of the things that makes it even more alluring. You can take some quiet time out here. Skarðsvík golden beach is perfect for those who are looking for a break. You can bring along a book to read on a comfortable spot. Also bring a camera to take back with you some worthy shots.

Skarðsvík Golden Beach - Iceland Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

How to Reach Skarðsvík Golden Beach

You can easily arrive at the beach through the main road of Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There is a smooth road from Útnesvegur, road number 574, which is the main coastal road. As the visitors will follow this road, ultimately, there will be a turn towards the west onto Öndverðarnesvegur. Now comes the tricky part as this is a gravel route. Still, you can access this path by most vehicles. As you drive on this path, you will see the incredible views of the peninsula.

Eventually, the visitors will arrive at a small parking area which has a few information signs. There is also a picnic area where tourists can sit and relax. You can follow the path and wooden steps from here which lead you down to the beach. The entire rich landscape is covered by the fractured basalt columns, formed from cooling lava. The large size of the columns indicates the fact that they cooled quite slowly. They form perpendicular to the lava flow which looks amazing, specifically in the bright weather.

Exploring the Beach Further

The visitors can also find several hiking trails that start from the beach over the lava fields. You can explore the beach further to see more astounding and mythical things. You need to take a right turn at the water and continue walking to where the sand ends at a long basalt wall. There is a small cave located at the northern end of the beach. A burial mound was found at this spot. The remains found belonged to a young male. Along with other things, there was a sword and a spearhead. These remains date back to the 10th century and are presently preserved at the National Museum of Iceland.

Skarðsvík Golden Beach - Snæfellsnes Peninsula Iceland Tours

Skarðsvík Beach on a map

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