Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsbær: An Icelandic Adventure with Friends

A Fond Farewell to Snæfellsbær

As our Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared in the Snæfellsbær area. Today was a day of tying up loose ends, revisiting favorite spots, and soaking in the last moments of this magical landscape. Though tinged with a bit of sadness, there's also a sense of excitement for what lies ahead, both for the journey home and the memories we'll carry with us.

The day began, as many of our days here have, with a hearty breakfast. We decided to revisit Matarlist, a charming restaurant in Ólafsvík that had quickly become a favorite. The warm, inviting atmosphere and the delicious Icelandic cuisine were the perfect way to start our final day. I opted for the traditional skyr with berries, a delightful combination of creamy yogurt and fresh fruit that always hits the spot. Lena, ever the adventurous one, tried the smoked salmon omelet and raved about its rich, smoky flavor. Omar, of course, stuck with his beloved pancakes, a simple pleasure that never fails to bring a smile to his face.

After breakfast, we decided to explore some of the local landmarks we hadn't yet had a chance to visit. Our first stop was the Jules Verne monument, a tribute to the famous author whose novel, Journey to the Center of the Earth, was inspired by the Snæfellsjökull glacier. The monument itself was quite striking, a modern sculpture that captured the spirit of adventure and exploration that Verne so embodied. As a lover of literature and a dreamer myself, I found it particularly inspiring. I couldn't help but imagine Professor Lidenbrock and his nephew Axel embarking on their daring expedition, descending into the depths of the earth through the very volcano that loomed before us. Omar, ever curious, peppered me with questions about the book and the characters, eager to learn more about their fantastical journey. Lena, meanwhile, captured the scene with her camera, framing the monument against the dramatic backdrop of the Icelandic coastline.


Discover the Jules Verne Monument in Arnarstapi, a captivating tribute to adventure amidst Iceland's breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Sometimes, it's the places that capture our imagination that leave the most lasting impressions.

Next, we made our way to the Stone Bridge, a natural rock formation that spans a section of the coastline near Arnarstapi. The bridge was an impressive sight, a testament to the power of nature and the beauty of simplicity. The waves crashed against the rocks below, creating a symphony of sound and motion that was both exhilarating and calming. We walked across the bridge, taking in the panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The air was crisp and clean, carrying with it the scent of salt and seaweed. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss, a reminder of the simple joys of life and the beauty of the natural world.


Explore the iconic Stone Bridge in Arnarstapi, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by breathtaking coastal landscapes and rich birdlife.

Our final landmark of the day was Aflraunasteinar, the legendary strength-testing stones of Djúpalónssandur beach. These stones were once used to measure the strength of Icelandic fishermen, a tradition that dates back centuries. There are four stones in total, each with a different weight: Fullsterkur (154 kg), Hálfsterkur (100 kg), Hálfdrættingur (54 kg), and Amlóði (23 kg). The goal was to lift each stone onto a ledge, a feat that required both strength and technique. I, of course, had to give it a try. I managed to lift the Hálfdrættingur, but the Hálfsterkur proved to be too much for me. Omar, bless his heart, insisted on trying as well, though he could barely budge the Amlóði. It was a fun, lighthearted moment that reminded us of the importance of perseverance and the value of tradition.


Discover Aflraunasteinar, a historical landmark on Djúpalónssandur beach, where Iceland's rich culture meets breathtaking natural beauty.

For lunch, we decided to try Agnið streetfood, a popular food truck in Stykkishólmur known for its fresh seafood and creative dishes. I opted for the fish tacos, a delicious combination of grilled cod, tangy slaw, and spicy mayo. Lena tried the lobster soup, a creamy, decadent concoction that she declared to be the best she'd ever had. Omar, meanwhile, devoured a classic Icelandic hot dog, a simple but satisfying treat that never fails to please. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was lively, and the views of the harbor were simply stunning.


Discover Agnið Streetfood in Stykkishólmur: A fast-food haven serving delicious local flavors amidst stunning Icelandic scenery.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we found ourselves with some free time before our farewell dinner. Lena and Omar decided to take a leisurely stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and skipping stones. I, on the other hand, felt drawn to a local establishment called Dillon Whiskey Bar. Now, I'm not usually one for hard liquor, but the promise of a warm, inviting atmosphere and a taste of local culture was too tempting to resist. The bar was cozy and dimly lit, with a rustic charm that immediately put me at ease. The bartender, a friendly, bearded man with a twinkle in his eye, greeted me with a warm smile and offered me a taste of the local whiskey. It was surprisingly smooth and flavorful, with a hint of peat and a warm, lingering finish. I sipped my whiskey slowly, savoring the moment and reflecting on the incredible journey we'd shared. The bar was filled with locals, chatting and laughing, their voices a comforting murmur that filled the air. It was a scene of simple, unadulterated joy, a reminder of the importance of community and the value of human connection.


Dillon Whiskey Bar: A vibrant hub for whiskey lovers, karaoke enthusiasts, and live music fans in the heart of Reykjavík's nightlife.

For our farewell dinner, we chose Bjarnarhöfn Bistro, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Icelandic cuisine and its stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We started with the fish soup, a hearty, flavorful broth filled with chunks of fresh cod, potatoes, and vegetables. For our main courses, Lena and I opted for the lamb, a tender, succulent roast that was cooked to perfection. Omar, meanwhile, devoured a plate of fish and chips, a classic comfort food that never fails to please. The food was delicious, the service was impeccable, and the company was even better. We laughed, we reminisced, and we shared stories of our favorite moments from the trip. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a fitting farewell to this magical land.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Bjarnarhöfn Bistro, renowned for its delicious seafood and cozy atmosphere amidst stunning landscapes.

As we prepare to leave Snæfellsbær tomorrow, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and family. I'll always cherish the moments we spent exploring the rugged coastline, hiking through the lava fields, and gazing at the Northern Lights. And though I'm sad to leave, I know that a part of me will always remain here, in this land of fire and ice, where the magic of nature is always just around the corner.

Tomorrow, we embark on our journey back to Reykjavik, where we'll catch our flight back to Hamburg. It's the end of our Icelandic adventure, but the beginning of a new chapter, filled with memories, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the world around us. Until next time, Iceland. Shukran and takk fyrir!