Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

First Day of Icelandic Wonder: Snæfellsnes Beckons

The adventure has begun! After months of planning, countless hours spent poring over maps, and a few last-minute packing panics, Lena, the kids, and I have finally arrived in Iceland. The air is crisp, the landscape is otherworldly, and the sense of excitement is palpable. This week, we're trading the familiar streets of Hamburg for the rugged beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region often called 'Iceland in Miniature.'

Our day started early with a flight from Hamburg to Reykjavik. The flight itself was smooth, and Omar was glued to the window, his little face alight with wonder as we soared over the North Sea. Landing in Iceland felt like stepping onto another planet. The landscape was stark, volcanic, and utterly captivating. After picking up our rental car – a sturdy SUV, essential for navigating Iceland's diverse terrains – we set our course towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive itself was an experience, with vast lava fields stretching out on either side of the road, punctuated by distant mountains shrouded in mist.

Our first stop was Snæfellsjökull National Park. The park is dominated by the Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano, a mystical presence that seems to watch over the entire peninsula. We spent a good part of the morning simply driving through the park, stopping at various viewpoints to soak in the scenery. The raw, untamed beauty of the landscape was breathtaking. The air was clean and crisp, carrying the scent of the sea and the earth. Even Lena, who usually prefers cityscapes, was visibly moved by the sheer grandeur of nature.


Experience the enchanting landscapes and rich geology of Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland's iconic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

To walk into nature is to witness a thousand miracles.

Lunchtime found us at Kaffi 59 in Grundarfjörður. It wasn't on the original plan, but we were all ravenous and Grundarfjörður looked like a charming place to stop. The cafe was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee was heavenly. I opted for their famous fish and chips, while Lena chose a vegetarian pizza. Omar, of course, went straight for the ice cream. It was simple, hearty fare, but it tasted incredible after a morning of exploring. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Kaffi 59 in Grundarfjörður – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.

After lunch, we ventured into the depths of Vatnshellir Cave. This 8,000-year-old lava cave is a subterranean wonderland, a testament to Iceland's volcanic past. We joined a guided tour, donned helmets and headlamps, and descended into the darkness. The cave was surprisingly spacious, with towering rock formations and hidden chambers. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate, explaining the geology of the cave and sharing stories of its formation. The highlight was when he turned off all the lights, plunging us into absolute darkness. It was a surreal experience, a reminder of the hidden wonders that lie beneath our feet.


Uncover the ancient mysteries of Vatnshellir Cave, a captivating lava tube in Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland, where adventure and nature unite.

Emerging from the cave, blinking in the sunlight, we felt like we had stepped back into another world. Our final stop for the day was Lóndrangar, the basalt cliffs that rise majestically from the sea. These towering sea stacks are the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater, sculpted by centuries of wind and waves. We parked the car and took a short hike along the coastal path, the wind whipping at our faces and the waves crashing against the rocks below. The cliffs were awe-inspiring, a testament to the power of nature. Omar was fascinated by the birds nesting in the cliffs, puffins and guillemots soaring overhead.


Discover the breathtaking Lóndrangar cliffs on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where nature's artistry meets Iceland's stunning coastline.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Fosshotel Hellnar, where we planned to have dinner. The hotel restaurant boasts exceptional views of Hellnar's cliffed coasts, and is known as a spot where Orcas are regularly spotted swimming in the ocean. We had a delicious meal of traditional Icelandic dishes, savoring the flavors of the region. The panoramic views from the restaurant were breathtaking, and we kept our eyes peeled for whales, though we weren't lucky enough to spot any. The hotel was cozy and the staff were very friendly.


Experience Icelandic cuisine and stunning landscapes at Fosshotel Hellnar – your gateway to adventure in Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, Bárður Snæfellsás Statue, and the Gerðuberg Cliffs. I'm particularly excited to see the basalt columns at Gerðuberg, as I've read so much about their unique geological formations. Lena is looking forward to visiting the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue, as she's always been fascinated by Icelandic folklore. And Omar, well, he's just excited for more adventures.

As I sit here now, writing this entry, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place, gratitude for the chance to share it with my family, and gratitude for the memories we are creating together. Iceland, you have already captured my heart. And I know, with absolute certainty, that this is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey.

Before heading to bed, Lena reminded me that I had forgotten to pack a power bank, and she was right. I will need to buy one tomorrow at a shop, so I can keep taking pictures and videos.

Reflections on Day One

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has already exceeded my expectations. The landscape is more dramatic, the air is fresher, and the sense of adventure is stronger than I could have ever imagined. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, where the elements have sculpted the land into a masterpiece of raw beauty. I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings, to delve deeper into the heart of Iceland, and to uncover more of its hidden treasures.