#Snæfellsjökull

[bergsmotiv]

Snæfellsnes-Glacier is the most majestic and mysterious mountain of Iceland and was made world famous by Jules Vern's first science fiction novel "Journey to the center of the earth" (1864).

Snæfellsjökull la plus mystérieuse des montagnes de I'Islande Jules Vern lui rendit une célébrité montiale par sou roman de science fiction "Voyage au centre de la terre" (1864).

[saveriopepe]

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Penisola di Snæfellsnes. Prendendo il nome dal grande ghiacciaio che si trova ai margini della penisola, (letteralmente chiamato “La montagna innevata”) questo luogo è stato reso famoso da Jules Verne nell’avventura Journey to the Center of theEarth. In quel libro, il ghiacciaio, che fin dal Medioevo è stato considerato un possibile ingresso all’inferno, è la porta d’accesso ai tunnel che portano…

[dunkelwort]

E I S - Voices from Iceland: 77, 78, C2

E I S – Voices from Iceland: 77, 78, C2

EIS, with an essay by Peter Schwenger, LN 2022, ISBN 979-8831231823 (Paperback), 979-8831204735 (Hardcover)  [Eng-Ger-Se]  • buy: paperback: amazon.com | .it | .de | .se • hardcover: amazon.com | .it | .de | .se • read: archive | behance • listen: podcast • download: Peter Schwenger

[quaranmine]

it was this lighthouse btw :]

i saw a really scenic lighthouse last week and my first thought was "maybe i should revisit the lighthouse fic" so maybe yall have that going for yall again now?

[betomad]

A home nestled within a group of technicolour mountains in the isolated settlement of Arnarstapi, shadowed by the 700,000-year-old Snæfellsjökull Volcano⁠ 🌋⁠Photo by @steveleonbrown

[quohotos]

So about the Serpents in the Prophecy of Bane...

I'm almost certain this is an allusion to Jules Verne's seminal piece of speculative fiction about going underground Journey to the Center of the Earth. Exerpt from the Wikipedia page:

The story begins in May 1863, at the home of Professor Otto Lidenbrock in Hamburg, Germany. While leafing through an original runic manuscript of an Icelandic saga, Lidenbrock and his nephew Axel find a coded note written in runic script along with the name of a 16th-century Icelandic alchemist, Arne Saknussemm. When translated into English, the note reads:

Go down into the crater of Snaefells Jökull, which Scartaris's shadow caresses just before the calends of July, O daring traveler, and you'll make it to the center of the earth. I've done so. Arne Saknussemm

Lidenbrock departs for Iceland immediately, taking the reluctant Axel with him. After a swift trip via Kiel and Copenhagen, they arrive in Reykjavík. There they hire as their guide Icelander Hans Bjelke, a Danish-speaking eiderduck hunter, then travel overland to the base of Snæfellsjökull.

In late June they reach the volcano and set off into the bowels of the earth, encountering many dangers and strange phenomena. After taking a wrong turn, they run short of water and Axel nearly perishes, but Hans saves them all by tapping into a subterranean river, which shoots out a stream of water that Lidenbrock and Axel name the "Hansbach" in the guide's honor.Édouard Riou's illustration of an ichthyosaurus (which is actually more like a mosasaurus) battling a plesiosaurus.

Following the course of the Hansbach, the explorers descend many miles and reach an underground world, with an ocean and a vast ceiling with clouds, as well as a permanent Aurora giving light. The travelers build a raft out of semipetrified wood and set sail. While at sea, they encounter prehistoric fish such as Pterichthyodes (here called "Pterichthys") Dipterus (referred to as "Dipterides") and giant marine reptiles from the Age of the Dinosaurs, namely an Ichthyosaurus and a Plesiosaurus. A lightning storm threatens to destroy the raft and its passengers, but instead throws them onto the site of an enormous fossil graveyard, including bones from the Pterodactylus, Megatherium, Deinotherium, Glyptodon, a mastodon and the preserved body of a prehistoric man.

So that's our culprit. That basically fits the description of the Serpents. Thought that was just a cool detail and reference.

The underground jungle is an element that you could potentially say is also an allusion to Verne, though I think the version in the underland chronicles is significantly different since the depiction in Journey to the center of the earth has light from above whereas all the plants in the underland are basically carnivores and/or feed off of volcanic heat.

It's also possible that this allusion is not deliberate, as much like War of the Worlds, Journey to the Center of the Earth has basically been subsumed into pop culture cannon and referenced so many times that a lot of it's unique elements have just become tropes. Dinotopia also used dinosaurs in a cave surviving the asteroid, Minecraft, Terraria, Spelunky, Noita, and basically any other video game that involves digging will at some point put a Verne styled underground jungle in there.

One YA series that leans really hard into the Journey to the Center of the Earth inspirations is the Tunnels series. I actually read them in 6th grade to attempt to scratch my TUC itch. Let me tell you, they're not as good and don't even come close. Whereas TUC has some tasteful allusions, Tunnels goes all in. The underground people are more evil (if that's possible) and are intent on wiping out all life on the surface. Worst of all, it's set in England!!! There's cool world building, but no giant talking bats so I have no choice but to award it zero stars. It was supposed to be turned into a movie in 2009 and all the books got stickers for that... said movie appears to have never materialized.

Idk, something I thought about while listening to today's @returntoregalia episode

Okay bonus details about how I made this connection: As a kid, wishbone would come on once a week at like 4 pm or something, I didn't get to see it often, but I vividly remember one of the episodes. For anyone who doesn't know, wishbone was PBS show that followed a dog and his human family as they go through some struggle that wishbone (the dog) finds allegorical to a piece of classic, public domain literature. The episodes are split in half with the parts in the present, and the reenactments within the dog's imagination of the classic piece of literature. In one of the few episodes I caught was about Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth. I do not recall how this novel was relevant to the characters lives, all I know is that it's way to long to fit into half of a 20 minute episode, so they had to really rush through a lot of parts. In one shot the characters are in this jungle and they run away from a Plesiosaurus puppet.

[echoesofadream]

Snæfellsjökull, Iceland

This glacier in the west of Iceland was mentioned as early as 1864 by Jules Verne in his "Voyage au centre de la Terre". In the past 150 years, approximately half of the glacier has melted. Most of Snæfellsjökull is predicted to have melted by the year 2050. By the end of this century the glacier will be not be there anymore.

Taking up about 10 percent of Iceland, the glaciers are the origin of the name of the country itself. In the upcoming centuries, it is likely that most of Iceland's glaciers will have disappeared. If the global temperature increase remains beneath 2 degrees, Iceland's largest glacier, Vatnasjökull, could remain at 30 to 60 percent. Today (30 November, 2023) begins UN's 28th climate conference, held in Dubai. Current global policies are estimated to lead to 3 degrees temperature increase this century.

What we do right now, today, is the ultimate determent of the future of our home. The last generation to grow up with Iceland's famous glaciers are growing up now.

[Okjökull lost its status as a glacier in 2014, declared a dead glacier.]

[ghost-mantis]

On paper Snæfellsjökull meets all of the basic requirements: it is older than 35 years and arguably can be considered a citizen of Iceland.

“…a bottle of glacial meltwater could be sent when the president is invited to engagements abroad and that visiting foreign dignitaries could be redirected to meetings with local specialists in fields such as glaciology.”

Glacier for President!

[mitmama]

Thingvellir & Reykjanes

Reykjavik | Snæfellsjökull National Park | Snæfellsnes | Thingvellir & Reykjanes

Thingvellir

We didn’t have time to do the whole Golden Circle this time, but did visit Thingvellir National Park again.  

- Öxarárfoss

This is a beautiful waterfall that’s slightly bluish in color, like the blue lagoon. 

- Continental Divide

Reykjanes Peninsula

On our way to the Keflavik Airport, we stopped by a few sites on Reykjanes Peninsula:

- Gígvatnsvatn (Green Lake)

- Krísuvíkurberg Cliffs - the drive is a bit long on dirt road, about half hour round trip.  Not sure if so worth it.

- Gunnuhver Hot Spring - quite a strong hot springs.. we could barely see the person in front of us while walking from the Parking Lot.  And a very strong sulfur smell that kids loudly protested. :)

Travel tips

We had a great time in Iceland.  Some parting thoughts: June/summer time is a great time to visit Iceland. It never got truly dark despite “nighttime” from 12:30-3:30am. This means long day and lots of time to get out and enjoy. Just be sure to bring eyeshades so you can sleep.  Last time we went during end of August and it got dark just like in America.  

Food is expensive, with burgers going for $30.  We stayed at vacation rentals so we can cook ourselves. Things to note, the most expensive item is often not the best item on the menu.  So be sure to read Google Maps reviews on what to order.

We drove a rental Tesla, not much than regular cars.  The car we got had basic self driving, making it easy to drive long distance.  Apparently the Model Y is the most popular car here, and u can find chargers in hotels or parking lots all over.  We even got 300 miles of free charging.

[stumbleimg]

Golden Hour at Snæfellsjökull [OC][5242x3941]

[fireflyiceland]

Discover Iceland’s Top Tourist Attractions with the Kia Sorento 4×4

The Kia Sorento 4×4 is not just a vehicle, but a key to unlocking some of Iceland’s most breathtaking and memorable experiences.

The Golden Circle: This popular tourist route includes three stunning locations: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

The South Coast: Experience black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, and the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature,” this area offers a bit of everything, from the Snæfellsjökull glacier to charming fishing villages.

The Blue Lagoon: This geothermal spa is one of Iceland’s most visited attractions. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters.

Reykjavik City: Explore the vibrant and cultural capital city of Iceland, with its museums, galleries, and iconic Hallgrímskirkja church.

Akureyri Town: Known as the “Capital of North Iceland,” Akureyri is a charming town with beautiful views of the Eyjafjörður Fjord.

The Westfjords: Experience the remote and unspoiled beauty of the Westfjords, home to dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Read More!

[fosscarrental]

Top Destinations for a 4x4 Rent A Car Road Trip in Iceland

Iceland’s rugged landscapes, dramatic scenery, and unpredictable weather make it the perfect destination for a thrilling road trip adventure. If you're planning a journey through this magical land, opting for a 4x4 Rent A Car in Iceland is essential. With a 4x4 vehicle, you'll have the freedom to explore the country's diverse terrains, from volcanic craters and glacier lagoons to waterfalls and geothermal springs. Here are some of the top destinations you can explore on a road trip in Iceland with a 4x4 rental.

1. Golden Circle Route

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular road trip routes in Iceland and a great way to kick off your adventure. Starting in Reykjavik, this route covers about 300 kilometers and takes you to three iconic Icelandic landmarks: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. While the roads on this route are mostly paved, having a 4x4 car hire in Iceland provides peace of mind during unpredictable weather conditions, especially in winter.

2. The South Coast and Vik

The South Coast of Iceland offers an extraordinary mix of black sand beaches, waterfalls, and glaciers. As you drive your 4x4 car rental from Keflavik Airport, head towards Vik, a charming coastal village. Along the way, make stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the Solheimajokull glacier, and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. The 4x4 capability allows you to confidently navigate Iceland’s changing road conditions as you explore these breathtaking locations.

3. Landmannalaugar in the Highlands

For those craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience, Landmannalaugar in Iceland's Highlands is a must-visit. Known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and rugged terrain, this region can only be accessed by a 4x4 vehicle. Driving a 4x4 rent a car in Iceland through the Highlands gives you the freedom to explore the area's untamed beauty, including hiking trails, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal pools. Make sure to plan ahead, as the Highlands are only accessible in the summer months.

4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Often called "Iceland in Miniature" due to its diverse landscapes, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another excellent road trip destination. With a 4x4 vehicle, you can explore hidden beaches, lava fields, and the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier. The rugged backroads on this peninsula make a 4x4 car hire in Iceland the best choice for accessing all the stunning sights, such as the Kirkjufell mountain, Vatnshellir Cave, and Djúpalónssandur beach.

5. The Westfjords

The remote Westfjords are known for their dramatic cliffs, narrow fjords, and small fishing villages. Due to the region’s rough and unpaved roads, a 4x4 rent a car in Iceland is highly recommended for navigating this area. Highlights include the towering cliffs of Látrabjarg, the stunning Dynjandi waterfall, and the hot springs in the village of Drangsnes. The drive can be challenging, but the 4x4 vehicle ensures that you can enjoy every part of this secluded paradise.

6. Vatnajökull National Park and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Head to the southeast of Iceland to explore Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier. A 4x4 car rental from Keflavik Airport allows you to venture to lesser-known areas in the park, such as Skaftafell and its beautiful waterfall, Svartifoss. Don't miss Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs drift across a serene lake, creating an unforgettable sight.

Conclusion

Choosing a 4x4 rent a car in Iceland for your road trip will open up opportunities to explore Iceland's most breathtaking destinations with ease and comfort. Whether you're sticking to popular routes or heading into Iceland's remote Highlands and Westfjords, a 4x4 vehicle is the ideal companion for navigating the country’s varied terrain. Start your adventure with a 4x4 car hire from Keflavik Airport, and get ready to discover the wonders of Iceland, from towering waterfalls and volcanic landscapes to serene glacier lagoons and hot springs.

[iceland-guide-tours]

Discover Iceland’s Best Self-Drive Tours for Unforgettable Adventures

Discover Iceland’s Best Self-Drive Tours for Unforgettable Adventures

Iceland, known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique geological features, and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With flexible itineraries and the freedom to explore, self-drive tours allow travelers to create their own unforgettable experiences. In this article, we will delve into some of the best self-drive tours across Iceland, showcasing stunning locations and offering essential tips for making the most of your journey.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Tour in Iceland?

Self-drive tours bring unparalleled freedom, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Here’s why you should consider this option:

Flexibility: Craft your itinerary according to your interests and schedule.

Accessibility: Discover hidden gems away from crowded tour buses.

Local Connections: Engage with local cultures and communities along your route.

Scenic Freedom: Stop to enjoy breathtaking landscapes whenever you want.

Top Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

Iceland offers diverse routes catering to various interests. Below are some of the top self-drive tours to consider.

1. The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is perhaps the most iconic self-drive route in Iceland, ideal for a day trip or a weekend excursion. This loop covers roughly 300 kilometers and includes key attractions:

Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the location where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating stunning fissures and rifts.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, this area offers fascinating geothermal features.

Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls, it cascades into a rugged canyon, showcasing nature’s raw power.

2. The South Coast Adventure

For those seeking coastal beauty, the South Coast offers a rich array of sights:

Seljalandsfoss: An extraordinary waterfall where visitors can walk behind the cascading water.

Skógafoss: One of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, known for its rainbows, especially on sunny days.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Famous for its striking basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks, this beach is a must-see.

3. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula features diverse landscapes, including mountains, fjords, and volcanic craters. Key highlights along the route include:

Snæfellsjökull National Park: Encompassing an iconic glacier-capped volcano, this park is perfect for hiking and photography.

Kirkjufell Mountain: Renowned for its distinct shape and surrounding waterfalls, it’s one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland.

Hellnar and Arnarstapi: Charming fishing villages with picturesque coastal walks and abundant birdlife.

4. The Westfjords

Offering rugged beauty and remote tranquility, the Westfjords are perfect for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience:

Dynjandi Waterfall: A series of stunning waterfalls that cascade down steep cliffs, each offering a unique perspective.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve: A paradise for hikers, featuring dramatic cliffs and a wild population of arctic foxes.

Ísafjörður: The largest town in the Westfjords, rich in history and surrounded by beautiful nature.

5. The Ring Road

The ultimate road trip, Iceland’s Ring Road encompasses the entire island, providing access to a plethora of stunning locations over approximately 1,332 kilometers. Notable stops include:

Akureyri: Iceland’s second-largest city, perfect for exploring local culture and surrounding nature.

Lake Mývatn: A region renowned for its unique volcanic formations and rich birdlife.

Vík í Mýrdal: A charming village close to Reynisfjara, offering stunning views and local charm.

Travel Tips for Self-Drive Tours in Iceland

Navigating Iceland’s diverse terrains requires preparation and care. Here are some essential tips for a successful adventure:

1. Choose the Right Rental Car

Depending on your itinerary, you might need a standard or 4×4 vehicle. For summer trips around the Ring Road, a regular car will suffice, but if you plan on accessing the highlands or remote areas in winter, a 4×4 is recommended.

2. Understand Road Conditions

Iceland’s weather can change rapidly. Always check road conditions at road.is and ensure that your planned routes are safe to navigate.

3. Pack Adequate Supplies

While major towns have amenities, remote areas may lack facilities. Carry enough food, water, and emergency supplies, especially if venturing into isolated regions.

4. Plan for Varied Weather

Dress in layers and prepare for varying weather conditions. Waterproof clothing and good hiking boots are essential, regardless of the season.

5. Be Mindful of Wildlife

Observe wildlife from a distance and respect their habitats. Iceland is home to many unique species, and safeguarding their environment is critical.

Conclusion

Embarking on a self-drive tour in Iceland opens up a world of incredible adventures and unforgettable sights. From the famed Golden Circle to the serene landscapes of the Westfjords, every route offers something unique. With thoughtful planning and a spirit of adventure, you’ll create lasting memories as you explore this extraordinary island.

For anyone eager to uncover the natural beauty, culture, and adventure that Iceland has to offer, self-drive tours provide the perfect opportunity to explore at your own pace, making every moment count on an unforgettable journey through this land of fire and ice.

Meta Description: Discover Iceland’s best self-drive tours and embark on unforgettable adventures through breathtaking landscapes, iconic sights, and vibrant culture on your own terms. Explore diverse routes and learn essential tips for your journey!

[dunkelwort]

E I S - Voices from Iceland: 31, 40, 42

E I S – Voices from Iceland: 31, 40, 42

EIS, with an essay by Peter Schwenger, LN 2022, ISBN 979-8831231823 (Paperback), 979-8831204735 (Hardcover)  [Eng-Ger-Se]  • buy: paperback: amazon.com | .it | .de | .se • hardcover: amazon.com | .it | .de | .se • read: archive | behance • listen: podcast • download: Peter Schwenger

[zenovyap]

Iceland in 1300km - Snæfellsjökull Peninsula's Charm

We are coming to a close to our 7 Day Complete Iceland Tour. In the week prior, we covered the iconic Golden Circle tour, followed by exploring the ice caves in a glacier. We then dipped in geothermal pools, visited geothermal vents and went on whale watching. Finally, we climbed a dormant volcano and visited a horse farm. Having left the main tour the day before, we embarked on the final leg of…

[salixalba8]

8/31 hike (поход [в горы], взбираться) Восхождение на вулкан Снайфедльс в книге "Путешествие к центру Земли".

[Climbing the Snæfellsjökull volcano in the book "Journey to the Center of the Earth".]