Exploring the Wild Beauty of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Whispers of the Earth

Today was a day of exploration and discovery, a journey into the heart of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula's captivating stories. From echoing caves to literary monuments and charming lighthouses, every corner held a new adventure. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the thrill of the unknown, the beauty of the unexpected, and the joy of sharing it all with friends.

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Skurinn in Ólafsvík. After a quick bite, we packed the car and set off towards Sönghellir Cave. The drive itself was an experience, with the rugged landscape unfolding before us. The sun peeked through the clouds, casting a magical light on the snow-capped mountains in the distance. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer beauty of this place.

Reaching Sönghellir Cave required a bit of off-roading, but our rented car handled the gravel road with ease. The final stretch was a short walk, and soon we were standing at the entrance of the cave, a dark and mysterious opening in the earth. Sönghellir, meaning 'Song Cave', is famous for its incredible acoustics. Legend has it that the cave once sheltered the family of Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-man, half-troll guardian spirit of the peninsula. I could almost feel his presence as we stepped inside.


Explore Sönghellir Cave, a mystical historical landmark in Iceland, where nature and folklore intertwine in stunning geological formations.

The interior of the cave was surprisingly spacious, with smooth lava rock walls covered in inscriptions from centuries past. Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson, two 18th-century travelers who fought against superstition and sought to educate the Icelandic people, etched their names into the stone and their markings remain visible to this day. The air was cool and damp, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our footsteps and the occasional drip of water.

We couldn't resist testing the cave's acoustics. Saoirse started singing a traditional Irish folk song, and her voice echoed beautifully through the chamber. It was a surreal and magical moment, and I felt a deep connection to the history and mythology of this place. Hans even tried out his yodeling, much to Saoirse's amusement and my own. I tried my hand at singing too, but I think I'll stick to teaching English.

The echoes of the past resonate within the present, reminding us that every place holds a story waiting to be discovered.

Leaving Sönghellir Cave, we continued our journey towards Arnarstapi, a charming village known for its dramatic coastline and the Jules Verne monument. As a literature enthusiast, I was particularly excited about this stop. I've always been fascinated by Verne's novel, *Journey to the Center of the Earth*, which was inspired by the Snæfellsjökull glacier that dominates the peninsula.

After a hearty lunch at Mæstro - Street food in Grundarfjörður, where I had some traditional Icelandic street food, we finally found the Jules Verne monument in Arnarstapi. It wasn't as grand as I had imagined, more of a simple signpost indicating distances to various cities. But it was still a thrill to stand there, imagining Professor Lidenbrock and his nephew Axel embarking on their fictional adventure. It was a fun reminder of how stories can shape our perception of a place and inspire us to explore the world.


Explore the Jules Verne Monument in Arnarstapi, a unique tribute blending literature and Iceland's stunning natural landscape.

We spent some time exploring Arnarstapi, admiring the basalt columns and the dramatic cliffs. The wind was strong, and the waves crashed against the rocks with a thunderous roar. Saoirse was fascinated by the statue of Bárður Snæfellsás, the same guardian spirit whose cave we had visited earlier. I explained to her the legend of Bárður, and she listened with wide-eyed wonder.

Before heading to our dinner spot, we made a quick stop at Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður. The shop was a treasure trove of Icelandic crafts and souvenirs, and I couldn't resist picking up a few gifts for family and friends back in Berlin. I was looking for a small token to remind me of this trip, and I found a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf that was perfect.


Explore Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður for unique Icelandic gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your unforgettable journey.

As evening approached, we drove towards Stykkishólmur, a picturesque town on the northern side of the peninsula. Our destination was Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, a bright red beacon perched on a basalt island just off the coast. Stykkishólmur has a certain charm. The harbor shelters the town from the northern wind and you can walk or drive to Súgandisey. The lighthouse was originally built in 1948 and offers panoramic views of Breiðafjörður and the surrounding area.


Explore the breathtaking Sugandisey Island Lighthouse in Stykkishólmur, a scenic gem with stunning views and rich maritime history, perfect for nature lovers.

The walk to the lighthouse was invigorating, with the wind whipping through our hair and the salty air filling our lungs. From the top, we could see the town of Stykkishólmur spread out below us, its colorful houses nestled along the harbor. The views of Breiðafjörður were breathtaking, with countless islands dotting the horizon. The sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Dinner at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa was a delightful experience. The restaurant is located in the old community house in Arnarstapi and has a cozy, homey atmosphere. We enjoyed some traditional Icelandic cuisine, including fresh seafood and hearty lamb soup. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and we felt like we were dining with family. I enjoyed their Plokkfiskur (mashed fish) and it was the perfect way to end the day.

As I sit here now, reflecting on our adventures, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and magic of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Stone Bridge, Bæjarfoss, and the Norwegian House. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us. This journey has been a reminder of the importance of exploration, connection, and appreciation for the world around us. And as I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the echoes of Saoirse's song in Sönghellir Cave, a melody that will stay with me long after we leave this enchanting place.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has a unique charm, and the stories of this land are worth the trip. I'm so happy to be sharing this journey with my friends and family, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.