Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

A Symphony of Nature's Artistry

Today was nothing short of magical as we delved deeper into the heart of Snæfellsbær. The landscapes here are so dramatic, so raw, that they feel like they've been sculpted by the gods themselves. Every turn brought a new vista, a new reason to gasp in awe. It's a reminder of why I love traveling – to witness the unparalleled beauty our planet has to offer.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Mæstro - Street food in Grundarfjörður. It’s a cozy little place by the harbor, and I couldn’t resist trying their famous lamb hot dog. Let me tell you, it was the perfect fuel for the adventures that lay ahead. Omar was particularly fond of it, declaring it the best hot dog he's ever had – a high compliment coming from a six-year-old. Lena opted for a freshly-made sandwich, while I enjoyed a strong Icelandic coffee to kickstart my day.

Fueled and ready, our first stop was the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain. Known as the 'Church Mountain' for its distinctive steeple-like shape, it’s one of the most photographed peaks in Iceland. And I can see why! It rises majestically from the landscape, a testament to nature's artistry. We spent a good hour just admiring it from different angles, trying to capture its essence in our photos. It's fascinating to think that Kirkjufell isn't a volcano, but a nunatak, a mountain summit that protrudes from an ice field.


Discover Kirkjufell Mountain, Iceland's iconic peak known for its breathtaking beauty and stunning waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Just a stone's throw away from Kirkjufell are the Kirkjufellsfossar waterfalls. These aren't the highest waterfalls in Iceland, but what they lack in height, they more than make up for in beauty. The water cascades down in multiple tiers, creating a mesmerizing scene against the backdrop of Kirkjufell. We walked around, exploring different vantage points, each offering a unique perspective of the falls and the mountain. The autumn foliage added a touch of magic, with the landscape painted in hues of gold and red.


Explore the enchanting Kirkjufellsfossar Waterfalls, a natural gem near Grundarfjörður, Iceland, where beauty meets tranquility amidst stunning landscapes.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its grand landscapes, but in the intricate details that make each place unique.

After soaking in the beauty of Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfossar, we drove towards Grundarfoss, another gem in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive itself was stunning, with vast fields of green foliage and majestic mountains in the background. Grundarfoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, standing at about 70 meters. The hike to the waterfall was relatively easy, about 1.5 kilometers round trip. Even Omar managed it without complaints, which is always a win! The waterfall cascades into the river Grundará, and the sight of the clear blue waters against the scenery was simply blissful.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grundarfoss Waterfall, a serene natural gem in Iceland, perfect for photography and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we decided to try Sjávarpakkhúsið in Stykkishólmur, a charming restaurant by the harbor known for its fresh seafood. The restaurant itself is cozy, adorned with old fishing photos that add to its maritime charm. I opted for the tasting menu, which featured a variety of local delicacies, including cod cheeks and mussels. Lena went for the halibut, while Omar, surprisingly, chose fish and chips. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to Iceland's pure waters and clean air.


Experience authentic Icelandic seafood at Sjávarpakkhúsið in Stykkishólmur – where every bite tells a story.

In the afternoon, we took a detour to Hellissandur to visit The Maritime Museum in the Fisherman's Garden. As someone with a keen interest in history, I was excited to explore Iceland's maritime heritage. The museum houses Iceland's oldest boat and a collection of maritime artifacts that tell the story of the nation's deep-rooted connection to the sea. We learned about the evolution of fishing techniques, boat-building traditions, and the impact of maritime activities on Icelandic culture. Omar was particularly fascinated by the huge whale bones and the lifting stones used to measure the strength of fishermen.


Discover Iceland's maritime history at The Maritime Museum, featuring the country's oldest boat and a cozy café in a scenic setting.

Before dinner, we took a stroll around the Fisherman's Garden, admiring the small turf houses and the monument called Jöklarar, which depicts the Glacier People. It's a beautiful tribute to the local community's connection to the ocean.

For dinner, we headed to Sker Restaurant in Ólafsvík. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The menu is varied, with something for everyone. I decided to try the pan-seared cod fillet, which was cooked to perfection. Lena opted for a lobster pizza, while Omar enjoyed a simple yet delicious pasta dish. The staff were friendly and the atmosphere inviting, making it a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Sker Restaurant in Ólafsvík - where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence.

As we drove back to our accommodation, the sky began to darken, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. September is known for being a good time to spot the Northern Lights, and I was hoping we'd get lucky. Unfortunately, the lights didn't make an appearance tonight, but the stars were out in full force, creating a breathtaking display of their own.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Sönghellir Cave, Bjarnarfoss, and Saxhóll Crater. I'm particularly excited about Sönghellir Cave, also known as the 'Singing Cave', and Saxhóll Crater, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. We'll also be stopping by The Freezer Hostel, Apartments & Culture Centre for a drink. It sounds like another day filled with adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Until then, sweet dreams from the magical Snæfellsbær!