The dramatic 'Rock Castle' of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Two massive ancient volcanic plugs rising 75 meters from the ocean, said to be an elf church.
Story & Legend
These twin pillars are the hard remains of an ancient volcanic crater that the ocean has eroded away. Local folklore insists this is a library and church for the Hidden People (Elves); farmers never harvested hay on the hill to avoid their wrath.
Geology & Science
Lóndrangar are volcanic plugs—the solidified magma cores of an ancient crater. Over millennia, the softer surrounding rock was eroded by the relentless North Atlantic, leaving only these dramatic 75-meter basalt spires.
Safety
The area is extremely exposed to the wind. The cliffs are sheer drops to the rocky beach below. Stick to the paved paths that lead from the Malarrif Lighthouse Visitor Centre.
Photo Tip
From Malarrif lighthouse, you get a great profile shot of both pillars. On clear days, the Snæfellsjökull glacier looms behind them for a dramatic backdrop.
Insider Tip
Instead of just visiting the main viewpoint, park at the Malarrif Lighthouse visitor center and hike the coastal trail towards the rock plugs for a fantastic 45-minute scenic walk along the cliffs.
Best Time to Visit
Sunset. The jagged silhouettes of the rock towers against a colorful evening sky make for incredible, moody photography.
What to Bring
A windproof outer layer. The southern Snæfellsnes coastline is heavily battered by ocean winds year-round.
