Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

Finding Iceland's Hidden Gems

Today was all about venturing off the beaten path and discovering the serene, almost magical, corners of the Snæfellsbær area. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the unexpected beauty and quiet moments that travel can offer. Forget the crowded tourist spots; today, my friends and I sought out the hidden gems that whisper stories of Iceland's soul.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Viðvík Restaurant. Fuelled up with traditional Icelandic fare, we set off towards Lýsuhóll. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape unfolding in a tapestry of greens and browns under the vast Icelandic sky.

Lýsuhóll was more than just a stop; it was an experience. This charming farm, nestled on the south coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is considered by many Iceland experts to be the most beautiful part of the country. The landscapes are incredibly diverse, and the glacier Snæfellsjökull looms nearby, lending a magical quality to the area. We didn't opt for a horseback riding tour today, though Lýsuhóll offers them, ranging from short jaunts to multi-day expeditions. Instead, we soaked in the serene atmosphere and chatted with some locals, learning about the farm's history and its connection to the land.


Discover the charm of Lýsuhóll in Snæfellsbær, where authentic Icelandic cuisine meets stunning natural beauty and cozy accommodations.

After leaving Lýsuhóll, we made a quick stop at TOKEN of ICELAND. I picked up a small, hand-carved puffin as a memento – a little piece of Iceland to bring back home to Hamburg. Lena will love it, and Omar will be fascinated by it.


Explore the charm of Iceland with unique handcrafted souvenirs at TOKEN of ICELAND, where local artisans showcase their finest creations.

Our next destination was the Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring. I’d read about this place and was intrigued by the idea of naturally carbonated mineral water. The drive there was stunning, with the landscape changing from rolling fields to more rugged terrain. As we approached the spring, the ground around it was distinctly red, a clear sign of the iron content in the water.


Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring: A serene escape into Iceland's natural beauty with healing mineral waters and breathtaking landscapes.

Ölkelduvatn is located on private land, and it’s clear the owners take pride in maintaining this special place. The spring itself is easy to access, and we filled our reusable water bottles with the bubbly water. The taste was… unique. A bit metallic, as some have described it, but also refreshing. It’s believed that the water has healing properties, thanks to the various minerals it contains. Whether that’s true or not, it was a fun experience, and I felt invigorated after drinking it.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

For lunch, we stopped at Hlaðan Veitingahús. I opted for a traditional Icelandic lamb soup, which warmed me from the inside out. The hearty broth and tender lamb were exactly what I needed to prepare for our afternoon adventure.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hlaðan Veitingahús amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Snæfellsnes.

The final stop of the day was Dagverdará waterfall. This was perhaps the most rewarding experience of the day, as it required a bit of a walk to reach it. We drove along Road 574 until we found the small dirt road leading to the waterfall. The unpaved road added to the sense of adventure, and I was glad we’d rented a car suitable for such terrain.


Explore the enchanting Dagverdará Waterfall in Hellnar, Iceland, a hidden gem surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and serene nature.

The walk to the waterfall was scenic, with the sound of rushing water growing louder as we approached. The area around Dagverdará is lush and green, and the waterfall itself is a beautiful cascade of clear water over rocky formations. It wasn’t as massive as some of Iceland’s more famous waterfalls, but its intimate setting and tranquil atmosphere made it special. I spent some time simply sitting on a rock, listening to the water and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant for dinner. The food was excellent, and the cozy atmosphere was the perfect way to end our day of exploration. Over dinner, we reminisced about our adventures and planned for tomorrow. We're aiming to visit Snæfellsjökull itself, explore the murals of Hellissandur, and visit the Visitor Center at Malarrif. I'm particularly excited about seeing Snæfellsjökull up close – it feels like a pilgrimage to the heart of this magical peninsula.


Discover unparalleled comfort and stunning views at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant in Snæfellsbær – your gateway to Icelandic adventure.

Reflecting on today, I’m struck by the diversity of experiences we packed into a single day. From the cultural immersion at Lýsuhóll to the quirky refreshment at Ölkelduvatn and the natural beauty of Dagverdará, Snæfellsbær has truly captured my heart. It’s a reminder that travel isn’t just about seeing famous landmarks; it’s about discovering the hidden corners and embracing the unexpected moments that make a journey truly unforgettable. And sharing these experiences with friends makes it all the more special.