Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

Chasing Lighthouses and Coastal Flavors in Snæfellsnes

Today was a day of exploration that felt like stepping into a postcard. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula continued to enchant Lena, the friends and me with its dramatic landscapes and charming villages. It was a blend of natural wonders and culinary delights that I am excited to share.

Our first stop was the Svörtuloft Lighthouse. The drive there was a bit of an adventure itself, with a bumpy gravel road that tested our rental car, but the views along the way were more than worth it. As we approached the westernmost point of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the bright orange lighthouse stood out vividly against the black lava cliffs. It was quite a sight. The contrast of colors was striking, and the rugged coastline stretched out before us, a testament to Iceland's raw beauty.


Experience the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Svörtuloft Lighthouse, a must-visit attraction on Iceland's stunning coastline.

Svörtuloft, meaning black ceiling in Icelandic, gets its name from the dark lava cliffs that extend for about 4 kilometers. These cliffs were formed centuries ago when fiery lava flowed into the sea, creating the jagged, dramatic landscape we see today. I learned that the lighthouse has two names: Skalasnagaviti when viewed from the land and Svortuloftaviti when seen from the sea. The current concrete lighthouse was built in 1931, replacing an earlier iron structure from 1914 that had succumbed to coastal erosion. Standing there, feeling the wind and taking in the panoramic views, I could see why this spot is considered one of the most dangerous coastlines in the North Atlantic.

We spent some time birdwatching, as the area is known for its seabirds. Although it's a bit late in the season, we managed to spot a few puffins flying over the cliffs, which was a treat. Lena, of course, took some amazing photos, capturing the essence of this remote and dramatic landscape. The viewing panel installed a few years ago provided an even better vantage point to observe the coastline and the birds.

From Svörtuloft, we drove to Stykkishólmur, a charming town on the northern side of the peninsula, to visit the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse. This lighthouse is unique because it's located on a basalt island connected to the mainland by a road. It was a short, easy walk up to the lighthouse, and the panoramic views from the top were incredible. We could see across Breiðafjörður, with its numerous islands dotting the landscape. The lighthouse itself is a small, red steel tower with a yellow base. Originally built in 1948, it features the lantern from the old Gróttuviti lighthouse.


Experience the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, a must-see destination in Stykkishólmur, Iceland.

Standing there, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The fresh sea air, the stunning views, and the quiet atmosphere made it a perfect spot to reflect and appreciate the beauty of Iceland. Lena pointed out the modern church in Stykkishólmur, its white concrete structure sweeping upwards like a sail. It added a touch of modernity to the otherwise natural landscape.

After our lighthouse adventures, we drove towards Rauðhóll, a striking volcanic formation known for its red color. The landscape here is quite different from the coastal cliffs, with rolling hills and lava fields stretching out before us. The drive to Rauðhóll was scenic, with Route 54 offering stunning views of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.


Explore the stunning hiking trails of Rauðhóll in Snæfellsnes, where breathtaking landscapes and rich folklore await every adventurer.

The hike around Rauðhóll was relatively easy, taking us about an hour. The trail led us through old lava fields, past small ponds, and over grass and rocks. As we climbed higher, the views of the surrounding countryside became even more impressive. We could see Öndverðarnes and Saxhóll in the distance, with the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier looming nearby. The red color of the crater stood out against the green moss and black lava, creating a surreal and captivating landscape.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like standing atop a windswept cliff or savoring a delicious meal in a cozy harbor town.

After a day of exploring, it was time to indulge in some local cuisine. For breakfast, we stopped at Arnarbær in Arnarstapi. This restaurant is known for its local food and cozy atmosphere. I opted for a traditional Icelandic breakfast, while Lena tried their famous fries with truffle mayo. The food was delicious, and the views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline added to the experience. It was a perfect way to start our day.


Experience Icelandic cuisine at Arnarbær in scenic Arnarstapi – where delicious food meets breathtaking views.

For lunch, we headed to Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur, a charming restaurant by the harbor. This family-run establishment is the oldest operating restaurant in town and is known for its inventive dishes and fresh, local ingredients. I decided to try their fish soup, which was brimming with seafood and had a divine broth. Lena chose the pan-fried cod with miso glaze, and she raved about the subtle flavors and freshness of the fish. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the views of the harbor added to the charm.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

As evening approached, we found ourselves at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips, also in Stykkishólmur. This casual eatery is famous for its crispy, golden fish and chips, made from the freshest catches of the day. I must say, it was some of the best fish and chips I've ever had. The fish was perfectly cooked, the batter was light and crispy, and the fries were seasoned with a unique lime salt that enhanced the flavor. We enjoyed our meal with a selection of sauces, all while taking in the stunning views of the harbor. The staff were friendly and passionate about their food, adding to the overall experience.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips in Stykkishólmur - where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views.

Before dinner, we stopped by Hrund, a gift shop in Ólafsvík. I was looking for a special souvenir to take back home to Omar, and Hrund had a great selection of unique, handmade items. I found a beautiful wooden toy carved in the shape of a puffin. I knew Omar would love it. Lena found a handcrafted woolen scarf, a perfect reminder of our Icelandic adventure. The shop had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly helpful, making our shopping experience a delight.


Discover authentic Icelandic gifts and crafts at Hrund Gift Shop in Ólafsvík, a perfect stop for unique souvenirs.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our adventures. From the dramatic cliffs and lighthouses to the charming villages and delicious food, Snæfellsnes had truly captured my heart. Lena and I agreed that this peninsula is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Iceland. The blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences is simply unforgettable.

Tomorrow, we will explore the Jules Verne monument, Stone Bridge, and Aflraunasteinar [Ahmed consults the itinerary for tomorrow]. I am looking forward to more adventures and discoveries in this magical land. And perhaps, we'll find another cozy spot to enjoy some local delicacies.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration. Until then, takk fyrir (thank you) for joining me on this Icelandic journey!