Exploring the Wild Beauty of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Beneath the Surface and Beyond

Today felt like stepping into a Jules Verne novel. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula continued to cast its spell on me, with its raw beauty and otherworldly landscapes. It was a day of exploration, both above and below ground, filled with the kind of awe that makes you feel incredibly small yet profoundly connected to the earth.

Our first stop was, of course, the majestic Snæfellsjökull National Park. Even from a distance, the glacier-topped volcano dominated the horizon, a silent promise of the adventures to come. I’d packed my trusty hiking boots, the ones I bought in Westport years ago, and I was eager to put them to good use. Hans always teases me about those boots, but they've seen me through thick and thin, from the muddy fields of Mayo to the cobblestone streets of Berlin.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland's iconic natural wonder and adventure haven.
The park itself is a tapestry of volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, and surprisingly vibrant flora. The wind was fierce, whipping my hair around my face as we started our hike, but the views were more than worth it. The dramatic cliffs plunged into the churning Atlantic, the waves crashing against the rocks in a symphony of raw power. I could almost imagine the Vikings of old, braving these very same shores. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of it all.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After a bracing morning of hiking, we were ready for a change of pace – and temperature. Our next destination was Vatnshellir Cave, a lava cave formed thousands of years ago. I have to admit, I was a little apprehensive. Claustrophobia isn’t my favorite thing, but Saoirse would have been so disappointed if I had backed out. The idea of venturing deep into the earth, into a world of darkness and mystery, was too intriguing to resist.


Discover the enchanting Vatnshellir Cave in Snæfellsjökull National Park, a must-visit Icelandic attraction for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Bundled in our warmest layers, we descended into the cave. The air immediately turned cool and damp, and the silence was profound, broken only by the occasional drip of water. Our guide, a friendly Icelander with a wealth of knowledge about the cave's geology, led us through the winding tunnels. The formations were incredible – stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted by centuries of water and volcanic activity. In the beam of our flashlights, the cave walls shimmered with hidden crystals, sparkling like a subterranean galaxy. It was like stepping into another world, a world hidden beneath our feet. I found myself thinking about Hans, and how much he would have loved this. He's always been fascinated by geology, and I knew he would have been captivated by the cave's formations.

Emerging from the cave, blinking in the sudden sunlight, I felt a sense of accomplishment and wonder. The earth is full of surprises, hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. And sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the most unexpected places.

Lunch at Arnarbær was a welcome treat. We were all ravenous after our subterranean adventure. The cozy restaurant offered hearty Icelandic fare, perfect for warming us up from the inside out. I opted for the traditional lamb soup, a steaming bowl of comfort that tasted like it had been simmering for days. The lamb was tender, the vegetables were flavorful, and the broth was rich and satisfying. It was the perfect fuel for the rest of our day's adventures. We also grabbed some Icelandic hot dogs for the road; they are becoming a bit of an addiction for me!


Discover culinary excellence at Arnarbær in scenic Arnarstapi—where traditional Icelandic flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.
Our final stop of the day was Lóndrangar View Point, a pair of basalt stacks rising dramatically from the sea. The stacks are remnants of a volcanic crater, eroded by the relentless power of the ocean. As we stood on the cliffs, gazing out at the stacks, the wind howled around us, carrying the cries of seabirds. The scene was wild, untamed, and utterly breathtaking. I felt a surge of energy, a sense of freedom that only comes from being in the presence of such raw natural beauty. I could have stayed there for hours, watching the waves crash against the rocks, listening to the wind, and simply soaking in the atmosphere.


Explore the Lóndrangar View Point, an unforgettable observation deck showcasing Iceland's dramatic basalt cliffs and stunning coastal views.
Before dinner, I popped into Kirkjufell knitting. I thought I would pick up a few souvenirs for Saoirse, and maybe a new scarf for myself. The shop was a cozy haven, filled with the scent of wool and the soft hum of knitting needles. The owner, a kind woman with twinkling eyes and a warm smile, showed me her wares – intricately patterned sweaters, colorful hats, and delicate lace shawls. I ended up buying a hand-knitted puffin toy for Saoirse, and a beautiful blue scarf for myself, a reminder of the Icelandic sea.


Discover the beauty of Icelandic craftsmanship at Kirkjufell Knitting in Grundarfjörður, a must-visit clothing store for unique souvenirs.
Dinner at Sjávarkjallarinn was the perfect end to a perfect day. The restaurant, known for its fresh seafood, was a welcome respite from the wind and the cold. I ordered the grilled cod, which was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist, with a delicate flavor that melted in my mouth. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was impeccable. As I savored my meal, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

As I sit here now, writing this in our cozy Airbnb, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – to discover new places, to experience new things, and to connect with the world around me. And tomorrow promises more adventures, with a visit to Kirkjufell Mountain and the Shark Museum on the agenda. I'm already looking forward to it, eager to see what wonders await us. I think it's going to be another day of exploring and learning, and I can't wait to share it all with you. I might even try some of that fermented shark tomorrow, if I am feeling brave enough! Good night from Iceland!