Exploring the Wild Beauty of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Saxhóll, Statues, and Street Food: A Day of Icelandic Wonders

Today was a day of contrasts and breathtaking views as we continued our journey through the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. From scaling a volcanic crater to encountering a mythical protector, the experiences were as varied as the Icelandic landscape itself. It felt like stepping into a land where legends and natural wonders intertwine, creating a unique tapestry of sights and stories.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hvanneyri Pub. The pub’s cozy atmosphere and the promise of a good grill set the tone for the day. Fuelled up, we set off towards our first destination: Saxhóll Crater. The drive itself was stunning, with the landscape unfolding before us like a movie scene. The weather was a bit cloudy, but the views more than made up for it. I was glad I had packed my layers, as the wind was quite brisk.


Explore Saxhóll Crater, a breathtaking volcanic site in Iceland that offers stunning views and a unique geological experience for all adventurers.
Saxhóll Crater was quite a sight. It's not a challenging climb, thankfully, as Saoirse would have been complaining otherwise, but it's enough to get the blood pumping and the lungs working. The metal staircase that winds its way up is ingeniously designed, blending seamlessly into the landscape. It made the ascent easy enough, and I could appreciate the views without worrying about slipping on loose gravel. From the top, the panoramic views were simply stunning. The sprawling lava fields, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and the distant Snæfellsjökull glacier created a vista that was both humbling and awe-inspiring. It was easy to imagine the fiery past of this volcanic landscape.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that offer a fresh perspective, both literally and figuratively.

After descending Saxhóll, we drove towards the lava rock formations. The landscape here was surreal, with jagged rocks jutting out of the earth in all sorts of bizarre shapes. It was like walking through an alien world, shaped by the forces of fire and ice. I couldn't help but wonder about the geological processes that had created such a unique and otherworldly environment. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the formations, trying to explain how the lava had cooled and solidified in such peculiar ways.


Discover the surreal beauty of the Lava Rock Formations on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a must-see natural attraction for every traveler.
Our next stop was the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. Situated in Arnarstapi, the statue is a tribute to the mythical protector of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The statue itself is quite imposing, a stoic figure gazing out over the dramatic coastline. The wind was howling, and the waves were crashing against the cliffs, adding to the sense of drama and mystique. I read about Bárður Snæfellsás. He was a half-human, half-troll who, according to local legend, disappeared into the Snæfellsjökull glacier and became the guardian spirit of the peninsula. The statue, created by Ragnar Kjartansson, captures the essence of this enigmatic figure, a blend of strength, wisdom, and connection to the land.


Discover the enchanting Bárður Snæfellsás Statue in Arnarstapi, a monument steeped in Icelandic legend, surrounded by breathtaking coastal beauty.
Lunch was a delightful affair at Agnið streetfood in Stykkishólmur. This vibrant culinary gem is known for its quick service and commitment to quality and flavour, and showcases traditional Icelandic ingredients. I opted for the fish and chips, while the others went for gourmet burgers, and we all agreed that the food was delicious and satisfying. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.


Experience the best of Icelandic fast food at Agnið Streetfood in Stykkishólmur - where flavor meets convenience.
After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Prjónaklúbburinn, a charming knitting shop in Stykkishólmur. As someone who enjoys knitting, I was in heaven. The shop was filled with a colourful array of yarns, all sourced locally. I ended up buying a few skeins of Icelandic wool, eager to start a new project when I got back to Berlin. Saoirse picked out a cute knitted hat, a perfect souvenir from our trip.


Explore the warmth of Icelandic craftsmanship at Prjónaklúbburinn, Stykkishólmur's premier knitting destination.
As evening approached, we found ourselves in Arnarstapi again, ready for dinner. We decided to try FRISTA Food Truck, a place known for its Icelandic street food and stunning views. I opted for the fish tacos, while Hans went for the lamb burger. The food was delicious, and the views were simply breathtaking. As we ate, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience delicious meals at FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi, where stunning views meet exceptional flavors on your Icelandic adventure.
Today was a reminder of why I love travelling. It's about discovering new places, meeting new people, and experiencing new things. It's about pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. And it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here in our cozy Airbnb, reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lýsuhóll, Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring, and Gatklettur. I am excited to see what adventures await us!

I’m also making a mental note to buy some binoculars when I get back to Berlin. I would have loved to have been able to spot some more birds.

I am also hoping that Hans and I can sneak out to Bara Borgarnes tomorrow night, for a nightcap, if Saoirse lets us get a babysitter. She has been getting a bit clingy on this trip.