Between Skápadalsmúli and Skápadalsfjall lies a beautiful valley called Skápadalur. At the bottom of the valley is a spectacular ravine, eroded by harsh winds and the awesome power of the elements in this region. The ravine is picturesque and grand with stacks and formations, and winds down from the high ground to the plateau below in a mesmerising interplay of curves and textures. The valley itself is surrounded by majestic mountains of ancient cliffs, as the rocks and land in this region are the oldest in Iceland, at around 16 million years old. By the road at the mouth of the valley, on the shore, lies a rusty wreckage of Garðar, oldest Icelandic steel boat.
Skápadalur
Westfjords, Iceland
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Climate
The weather in the Westfjords is highly variable and very unpredictable. Winters are frigid and snowy, with temperatures frequently falling below freezing, whereas summers are moderately cool, with average temperatures between 10-15°C (50-59°F). Coastal regions are prone to powerful winds and fog, and rainfall is common throughout the year. The region's fjords, mountains, and coastal cliffs can amplify weather patterns, making Westfjords a place where, within a brief period of time, one can experience everything from calm, sunny days to stormy, foggy conditions.
Data source Temperature averages
Lighting
The longest day in Iceland is multiple days from May through July when the sun doesn't set. The daylight hours in Iceland on the shortest days of the year are 4-5 hours per day (December to January).
Data source Accessibility
The beach lies approx 19 km off the main road and the road is gravel, with steep and hazardous hills. There is no organized winter service for the road that leads to this location.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
At the entrance to the valley is a medium/large beach strip where the old boat is moored. That could be utilized as basecamp for the ravine. Small tech base or offloading area could be closer on the old farmers trail leading into the valley.
Risk factors
The ravine is high with unstable rocks.
Visitors
Not a popular tourist attraction. There is a all-season summerhouse at the base of the valley.
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