Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

A Day of Contrasts and Discoveries

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, from the stark beauty of a glacier to the explosion of colors in a small fishing village. It was a day where nature and art collided, leaving me in awe of Iceland's diverse offerings. The weather, as always, kept us on our toes, but that's part of the adventure, right?

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Fosshotel Hellnar. The spread was impressive, and after fueling up with some strong coffee and pastries, we were ready to tackle our first major attraction: Snæfellsjökull.


Discover the stunning beauty and rich mythology of Snæfellsjökull, Iceland's iconic volcano and national park, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.

The drive up to Snæfellsjökull was stunning. The landscape transformed as we ascended, the green meadows giving way to rugged lava fields. The closer we got to the glacier, the more imposing it became. Even in September, the ice cap glistened in the morning light. It's hard to believe that this majestic glacier sits atop a volcano that last erupted around 250 AD.

We decided against a full-on glacier hike this time, knowing it would require proper gear and a guide. Plus, Lena wasn't too keen on the idea, remembering a rather precarious hiking experience we had in the Swiss Alps a few years back. Instead, we opted for a shorter walk around the base, taking in the views and snapping photos. The sheer scale of the glacier is humbling, and it’s easy to see why it's considered one of Iceland's most picturesque sights.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After spending a good couple of hours admiring Snæfellsjökull, we drove to Hellissandur. I had read about the murals there, but nothing prepared me for the sheer volume and vibrancy of the street art. This small fishing village has transformed itself into an open-air gallery, with over 30 large-scale murals adorning buildings, fences, and public spaces. It’s quite a contrast to the stark, natural beauty we had just witnessed at the glacier.


Explore the captivating Murals of Hellissandur, where Iceland's culture and creativity burst into vibrant life amidst stunning landscapes.

We parked the car and wandered around, cameras in hand, marveling at the artwork. The murals are incredibly diverse, with themes ranging from Icelandic folklore and nature to more contemporary and abstract pieces. I was particularly struck by a mural depicting Áxlar-Björn, Iceland's only known serial killer. It’s a bit morbid, I know, but it’s also a fascinating piece of local history. Lena was captivated by a mural of puffins and Arctic terns soaring across a swirling sky. Omar, of course, just loved all the bright colors and larger-than-life figures.

Kári Viðarsson, the founder of The Freezer Hostel, started the mural project in 2018 with the goal of turning Hellissandur into a cultural landmark. It’s safe to say he succeeded. The murals have not only revitalized the village but also attracted visitors from all over the world. It’s amazing how art can breathe new life into a place.

By lunchtime, we were starting to feel peckish, so we headed to Ólafsvík for a bite at Skipper Restaurant. I opted for the classic fish and chips, while Lena tried the seafood soup. Omar, predictably, went for the burger. The portions were generous, and the food was hearty and satisfying. Just what we needed to recharge after a morning of glacier gazing and art appreciation.


Experience the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Skipper Restaurant in Stykkishólmur - a culinary gem offering fresh seafood and local flavors.

Our final stop for the day was the Gestastofa á Malarrif, the visitor center for Snæfellsjökull National Park. This modern building, constructed from the old sheepfolds of Malarrif, offers a wealth of information about the park's geology, ecology, and history. There’s even a small souvenir shop, which Omar was thrilled about.


Explore the gateway to Snæfellsjökull National Park at Gestastofa á Malarrif, where adventure and nature await.

We spent about an hour exploring the visitor center, learning about the local flora and fauna, and browsing the exhibits. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing us with maps and tips for hiking trails. The center also has restrooms, which, let's be honest, are always a welcome sight when traveling with a six-year-old.

Before leaving Malarrif, we took a short walk along a trail leading to the coastline. The views were breathtaking, with the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves providing a perfect backdrop for some final photos. It’s easy to see why this area is so popular with photographers.

For dinner, we decided to try Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, a restaurant in the nearby village of Arnarstapi. This cozy spot is known for its home-style Icelandic cooking. I had the lamb stew, while Lena opted for the vegetable soup. Omar, surprisingly, tried a bit of both. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was delicious and comforting. It was the perfect way to end a long and eventful day.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, where stunning coastal views meet delicious local flavors.

After dinner, we made a quick stop at Kaffi 59 in Grundarfjörður for a nightcap. It was a cozy place to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the cozy charm and authentic Icelandic flavors at Kaffi 59 in Grundarfjörður, a must-visit restaurant for every traveler.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore some more of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, including the Svörtuloft Lighthouse and the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse. We might even try to find the Rauðhóll crater, if the weather cooperates. And, of course, we’ll need to find a good spot for some fish and chips. Lena is already eyeing Narfeyrarstofa for lunch. Before we head out, we'll grab breakfast at Arnarbær. I’m also hoping to check out the Hrund shop for some local crafts.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had today. Iceland continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The weather in Iceland in September can be unpredictable, with average daytime temperatures around 50°F (10°C) and nighttime lows around 42°F (6°C). It's also one of the rainiest months, so be prepared for showers. However, September also offers long daylight hours and the chance to see the Northern Lights.

Overall, today was a fantastic blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. From the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier to the vibrant street art of Hellissandur, we experienced the diverse offerings of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The delicious food and cozy accommodations only added to the experience. I highly recommend this region to anyone looking for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

I'm also keeping an eye out for any events happening in the area. I read about the Iceland Eclipse festival in 2026, but that's a bit too far in the future. Perhaps we'll catch a local music performance or art exhibition during our stay.