Exploring the Wild Beauty of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Wonders on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today was nothing short of magical. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula continued to reveal its breathtaking beauty and unique charm, leaving me utterly captivated. From tasting mineral-rich waters to marveling at dramatic coastal formations and savoring delicious Icelandic cuisine, it was a day filled with unforgettable experiences. I felt like I was living a dream, and I couldn't wait to share it all with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Harbour Cafe. It was a quaint little spot, and the pastries were divine. I savored every bite, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. Hans would have loved this place, he is always up for freshly baked pastries. I made a mental note to try recreate them when I'm back in Berlin. Saoirse, bless her, would have probably wanted to try every cake in the display!


Discover Icelandic flavors at Harbour Cafe in Grundarfjörður - where every meal offers stunning views and authentic tastes.

First stop: Lýsuhóll. I'd read about this place, but nothing prepared me for its serene beauty. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature, breathe in the fresh Icelandic air, and feel the earth beneath your feet. While I didn't partake in the horse riding tours they offer, I did take a leisurely stroll around the area, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The open landscapes and rolling hills were a balm to the soul, a welcome contrast to the bustling streets of Berlin. The air was so clean, a stark difference from the city, and I felt my lungs rejoicing with each breath.


Experience the best of Snæfellsbær at Lýsuhóll, where delicious cuisine meets cozy accommodations and thrilling horseback riding adventures amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

Next on the agenda was Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring. Now, this was an experience! Pumping naturally carbonated water straight from the earth was quite surreal. The water itself had a unique, slightly metallic taste, which I found surprisingly refreshing. It's known for its high mineral content and supposed healing properties. Whether it truly possesses such powers, I can't say for sure, but it certainly made for an interesting and memorable pit stop. I imagined the water bubbling up from the depths of the earth, infused with the very essence of Iceland. I even filled up my reusable water bottle for the road, figuring a little extra dose of Icelandic minerals couldn't hurt. I remember when I first moved to Berlin and Hans took me to the local markets, this reminds me of that, just much more Icelandic.


Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ölkeldurvatn Mineral Spring, a historical landmark renowned for its healing waters and stunning landscapes.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a land of contrasts, where rugged coastlines meet serene landscapes, and every corner holds a new surprise.

With the taste of mineral water still tingling on my tongue, we drove towards the coast, eager to witness the iconic Gatklettur. And, oh, it did not disappoint! This natural rock arch, carved by centuries of relentless ocean waves, is a sight to behold. The sheer power of nature is on full display here, and I stood in awe, watching the waves crash against the basalt columns, creating a symphony of sound and motion. The arch itself, with its distinctive hole in the center, framed the turbulent sea in a way that was both dramatic and beautiful. I spent a good hour simply absorbing the scene, feeling the spray of the ocean on my face and listening to the cries of the seabirds overhead. I thought about Hans and Saoirse, and how much they would have loved to see this. I imagined Saoirse clambering over the rocks, her laughter echoing in the wind, and Hans capturing the scene with his camera, his eyes sparkling with delight.


Discover Gatklettur, a breathtaking rock arch in Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, showcasing stunning landscapes and vibrant birdlife.

Lunch was at Stapinn in Arnarstapi, a delightful family-run restaurant. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the atmosphere was cozy and welcoming. It felt like stepping into someone's home, and the food was prepared with love and care. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. I was surrounded by fellow travelers, each with their own stories and experiences, and I felt a sense of camaraderie and connection. I overheard snippets of conversations in different languages, and I realized that we were all united by our shared love of travel and our desire to explore the world.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where delicious food meets breathtaking coastal views.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hótel Snaefellsnes for dinner. The hotel itself exuded a sense of warmth and hospitality, and the restaurant was no exception. The menu featured traditional Icelandic dishes made with organic ingredients, and I opted for the lamb, which was cooked to perfection. The flavors were rich and comforting, and I felt a sense of deep satisfaction. Paired with a local wine, it was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. I found myself reflecting on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness the beauty of Snaefellsnes and to connect with its unique culture and history.


Experience unparalleled dining and comfort at Hótel Snaefellsnes amidst Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by Bara Borgarnes for a drink. This local bar had a great vibe, with friendly staff and a selection of Icelandic microbrewery beers. It was the perfect place to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all mingling and sharing stories. I struck up a conversation with a friendly Icelander who shared some insights about the peninsula's history and culture. He told me tales of elves and trolls, of hidden waterfalls and ancient Viking settlements. I listened with rapt attention, feeling transported to another world. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with new people and learning about different cultures.


Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine and culture at Bara Borgarnes, a cozy diner and pub in the heart of Borgarnes.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today was a reminder that the world is full of beauty and wonder, and that it's worth taking the time to explore it. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has captured my heart, and I know that I will carry its memories with me long after I leave. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will include exploring Sönghellir Cave, visiting the Jules Verne monument, and seeing the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse. I can't wait to see what new wonders await me, and I'm excited to share them all with you.

The thought of tomorrow's journey fills me with anticipation. Sönghellir Cave, with its echoes of the past, promises to be an intriguing experience. I've always been fascinated by caves and their hidden worlds, and I can't wait to explore this one. The Jules Verne monument, a tribute to the famous author, is another highlight. As a lover of literature, I'm eager to pay homage to Verne and his imaginative tales. And, of course, the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, standing tall against the crashing waves, is sure to be a breathtaking sight. I'm packing my camera and preparing myself for another day of wonder and discovery.

I am also thinking about bringing a little something back from Álfar og Tröll ehf tomorrow. I have heard they have some great souvenirs there.

I am really looking forward to traveling to Berlin to see Hans and Saoirse. I miss them so much. I am hoping they can come visit Iceland with me next time!

I think I will call it a night. I am so tired after all of today's adventures!

Until tomorrow!