Stóra Eldborg

Reykjanes Peninsula , Iceland
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360° view

Stóra-Eldborg is a small Holocene volcano on Reykjanes Peninsula. It is 50 meters tall with a breathtaking view of the surrounding lava fields of Krýsuvíkurhraun and Eldborgarhraun and the mighty Atlantic Ocean in the background. The crater is the highest of five other craters in the area from the same volcano system. The volcano is a stunning, steep red pyroclastic cone with a deep crater in the middle. Surrounded by hardened lava, the cone stands tall, displaying layers of eruptions from a long time ago. Its symmetrical shape and contrasting colours against the barren expanse create a captivating scene.

Climate

The weather is Reykjanes Peninsula can be described as harsh and unpredictable like the rest of the country. The region experiences strong winds, heavy rain, and occasional snowfall throughout the year. The temperature can vary greatly from day to day, with summer temperatures ranging from 10°c to 15°c and winter temperatures dropping as low as -5°c. Visitors should come prepared for any type of weather.
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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 parking lot is 1.7 kilometers off the main road. From there, a 600 meters easy hike takes you to the crater and a 100-meters steep hike up to the top. It would be possible to bring a 4-wheeler on the hiking path, but a permission needs to be granted.
Public transportation unavailable
There is no public transportation available in this area
Car recommended
Unchallenging terrain accessible by car
Excellent phone coverage
Great phone coverage without interruptions
Not needed
Guide is not needed

Permits

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The area is owned by the government, so a government permit is needed.
Property owner unknown
Reykjanes Peninsula is on UNESCO GEOPARK list
Property owner unknown

Basecamp and facilities

There is a small parking lot at this location, suitable for a small tech base. 2 kilometers away, there is a mine that could be used for bigger basecamps. There are no facilities at this location. Phone coverage is excellent.

Risk factors

Stóra-Eldborg is under nature protection by law. The last 100 metres of the hiking trail up to the crater is very steep with loose rocks of scoria and spatter.

Visitors

The area is a low tourist attraction. This location can be managed with PAs. With the right permit you could close it off.

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