Eldborg is, according to experts, a beautiful example of a “spatter cone” crater at the foot of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
Formation and appearance of Eldborg
Eldborg volcano was formed as a result of an eruption that took place about 6,000 years ago, on a short volcanic fissure only 200 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep.
It is a efluvial, or lava, volcano. It is also classified as one of the so-called central volcanoes, that is, volcanoes in which the eruption occurs from a single location, a single crater. Eldborg has a very classic, symmetrical shape, with smooth sloping sides and a very distinct crater.
The characteristic volcanic cone – such as Eldborg has – with an evenly cut but sort of jagged crown is called a spatter cone/ring (literally, a splashed cone/ring). It is a specific type of cone volcano, which is formed from lava that solidified almost immediately after the eruption, deposited on the crater walls. As a result, the crater has quite irregular, sharp and steep edges. You can read more about the different types of volcanoes and their impact on Iceland’s nature in the guide How Iceland’s Volcanoes Work
The picturesque setting of Eldborg Crater
Elborg lies on a large, colorful lava plain full of green, red, gold and orange accents. There are 5 other craters around, but this one is the largest in the area. Such a feature adds to its uniqueness and makes it quite spectacular.
Depending on your tastes, experience and fitness, you can arrange a hike around the crater or to its summit. Those willing can even take a look inside Eldborg. A popular sight that adds drama to the place are the ravens nesting inside.
Eldborg has been a protected site since 1974.
How to get to Eldborg volcano
Eldborg lies “in the fold” of Highway 54, where it turns west and enters the Snaefellsnes peninsula. It’s about 30 km north of the village of Borgarnes and about 80 km north of Reykjavik.
Reaching the crater requires a 2.5-kilometer hike from the Snorrastadir farm. The terrain is flat, though unpaved. The road to the top is quite steep. The crater is most easily accessible in summer, when there is no snow or ice on the road. A total of about 1:30 h should be reserved for the walk alone.
