Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

A Day of Coastal Charms and Icelandic Tales

Today was a day filled with dramatic landscapes, mythical tales, and the kind of hearty food that warms you from the inside out. The Snæfellsbær area continues to captivate me with its raw beauty and unique character. It's a place where every corner seems to hold a story, and I'm eager to uncover as many as I can with my friends.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi. The promise of the best fish and chips in Iceland was too tempting to resist, and let me tell you, it lived up to the hype! The fish was incredibly fresh, with a crispy, well-seasoned batter that had a unique cornflake breading. Ahmed was friendly and clearly took pride in the cleanliness of his truck. The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were reasonable. We sat at the picnic tables, trying to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery despite the wind. Lena opted for the chicken quesadilla, which she said was also delicious. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore.

Our first stop was the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. The views were simply breathtaking. The rugged coastline stretched out before us, with dramatic rock formations sculpted by centuries of erosion. The waves crashed against the cliffs, creating a symphony of sound and motion. I could have spent hours just watching the sea, but we had more to see. The wind was strong, a reminder of Iceland's raw, untamed nature. I made sure Omar stayed away from the cliff edges, holding his hand tightly as we walked along the path.


Explore the stunning Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, a natural wonder showcasing breathtaking coastal views and unique geological formations in Iceland.

As we strolled along the cliffside, the crisp September air filled our lungs. The average temperature in Snæfellsbær this month hovers around 7-9°C (45-49°F) , so layering is essential. I was glad I'd packed my warm, waterproof jacket. The sunlight peeked through the clouds, casting a magical glow on the landscape. It was the kind of light that makes you want to capture every moment with your camera, and I snapped away, trying to do justice to the scenery.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like standing on a cliffside, feeling the wind in your hair, and gazing out at the endless expanse of the ocean.

Next on our list was the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. This imposing stone structure depicts the mythical protector of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Created by sculptor Ragnar Kjartansson, the statue embodies Bárður's half-troll, half-man nature. According to local legend, Bárður was the first settler in this area, arriving in the 9th century. He was considered the guardian spirit of Snæfell, and locals would call upon him in times of need. Standing before the statue, I felt a connection to the ancient stories and folklore of Iceland. Omar was fascinated by the statue, asking endless questions about the troll-man and his adventures.


Explore the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue in Arnarstapi, a stunning monument celebrating Icelandic folklore amidst breathtaking coastal scenery.

For lunch, we stopped at Stapinn, a family-run restaurant in Arnarstapi. This charming café is known for its warm ambiance and traditional Icelandic dishes. Stapinn is a cozy restaurant and café located in the scenic village of Arnarstapi. The interior was rustic and inviting, and the menu featured a variety of options, including fresh seafood and hearty meat dishes. I opted for the lamb soup, a classic Icelandic staple, while Lena chose the fish and chips. Omar devoured a burger with gusto. The food was delicious and comforting, and the service was friendly and efficient.


Discover Stapinn in Arnarstapi: A delightful restaurant offering local flavors and stunning coastal views.

Our final destination for the day was the Gerðuberg Cliffs. These basalt columns are a geological wonder, formed thousands of years ago by flowing lava that cooled rapidly in the sea. The hexagonal columns are perfectly shaped, creating a symmetrical and visually stunning landscape. It's hard to believe that these formations are entirely natural; they look almost man-made. We walked along the base of the cliffs, marveling at the sheer scale and symmetry of the columns. Some of the pillars are up to 14 meters high and 1-1.5 meters wide. The cliffs stretch for about half a kilometer, creating a fortress-like wall of stone. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, and I felt a sense of wonder at the power and artistry of nature.


Explore the breathtaking Gerðuberg Cliffs, where nature's artistry meets stunning volcanic landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures and photography.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. Located close to our hotel, this restaurant offered a seasonal Contemporary American menu with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's purpose is for you to enjoy the food in the breathtaking environment of Arnarstapi. The interior combined contemporary design with cozy Icelandic charm, and large windows offered stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. I savored the flavors of the Icelandic meat soup while Lena enjoyed a fresh fish dish. Omar, predictably, went for the burger again. We finished our meal with a slice of salted caramel cake, which was sinfully delicious.


Experience Icelandic cuisine with stunning coastal views at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant in picturesque Arnarstapi.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Arnarbær for a drink. This restaurant and bar is known for its local food and seafood. It's open from May to September, from 12:00 to 22:00. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we enjoyed a couple of local beers while chatting about our adventures.


Discover the flavors of Iceland at Arnarbær, a cozy restaurant in Arnarstapi offering local dishes and a warm atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of the Snæfellsbær area. From the dramatic cliffs and mythical statues of Arnarstapi to the geological wonders of Gerðuberg, this region offers something for everyone. And the food, of course, has been a highlight. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will take us to Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar. I've heard that the views from Kirkjufell are spectacular, and I can't wait to capture them with my camera. We'll also be visiting Grundarfoss, another beautiful waterfall in the area. And perhaps we'll find some time to explore The Maritime Museum in the Fisherman's Garden. It's going to be another exciting day!

Before drifting off to sleep, I checked the weather forecast for tomorrow. It looks like we can expect similar conditions to today: cool and slightly windy, with a chance of rain. So, we'll need to pack our waterproof gear and be prepared for anything. But whatever the weather, I know that Snæfellsbær will continue to surprise and delight us.

Until tomorrow, friends!