Vatnshellir is a lava cave located in the Purkhólahraun
lava field, which is considered one of the most cave-rich lava fields
in Iceland. The lava is basaltic pahoehoe and is estimated to be
between 5,000 and 8,000 years old.
Vatnshellir is part of a larger cave system consisting of four caves.
The uppermost cave is the main Vatnshellir and is accessible to the
public. Below it lie the sections known as Bárðarstofa and Vættagangur,
and at the lowest level is the cave called Iður. Together, the lower
sections are known as the Undirheimar, or “the Underworld.”
The total length of the lower cave system is approximately 200 meters,
with ceiling heights reaching up to 10 meters in many places. The
deepest section, Iður, lies more than 30 meters below the ground
surface. In the ceiling of the cave, especially in Vættagangur, a
whitish, shimmering bacterial or fungal growth can be seen, reflecting
light and creating a unique atmosphere.
The cave takes its name from its former use as a water source. In the
past, water was collected from the cave, and cattle from the Malarrif
area were watered there during dry periods.
Vatnshellir is located on the southern slopes of the Purkhólahraun lava
field, above Malarrif and close to the Útnes road. A parking area is
located near the main road, and the cave is a popular destination for
visitors interested in lava caves and the geology of the Snæfellsnes
Peninsula.
Photo: Anton Stefánsson
Vatnshellir er áhugaverður staður á Íslandi sem vert er að heimsækja.