Salthöfði og Salthöfðamýrar

History & Background

Salthöfði is a striking geological formation, a sheer basalt cliff stretching 800 meters long and rising 60 meters high. It forms part of a highland ridge descending from the immense Öræfajökull, a testament to the powerful volcanic and tectonic forces that have shaped Iceland over millions of years. The area is characterized by its dramatic rock walls, dikes, or crater plugs, with cinder cones visible to the north, all contributing to a landscape born of fire and ice. Beyond its geological significance, Salthöfði holds a place in local history. East of the main headland, three prominent rock pillars, or 'drangar,' stand. The largest, Gimluklettur, is associated with a legend recounting the discovery of sheep there after the catastrophic 1362 eruption of Öræfajökull, symbolizing resilience in the face of natural disaster. Another pillar, Loddudrangur, is notably slender and deemed unclimbable. The area also served a practical purpose in centuries past. Before the mid-19th century, the 'vikurskaflar' (pumice drifts) found beneath Salthöfði were ingeniously used as natural cold storage, providing a cool, stable environment for preserving barrels of salted meat throughout the long Icelandic winters. This fascinating historical detail highlights the resourcefulness of early Icelandic settlers in adapting to their challenging environment. Salthöfði and the surrounding Salthöfðamýrar marshlands were officially designated as a protected area in 1977, preserving its 230.7 hectares for future generations to explore and appreciate.

Practical Information