Exploring Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula Solo

A Fond Farewell

As my incredible solo journey through Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences that have filled the past eleven days. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of Icelandic culture and history before heading back to Reykjavik. It was a day of quirky museums, literary tributes, and, of course, some delightful culinary adventures.

The morning started with a hearty breakfast at Arnarbær in Arnarstapi. I savored every bite, knowing it was one of my last opportunities to enjoy authentic Icelandic cuisine on this trip. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and the stunning views of the rugged coastline made it the perfect spot to fuel up for the day's adventures.


Discover culinary excellence at Arnarbær in scenic Arnarstapi—where traditional Icelandic flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.

First up was a visit to Snorrastadir Farm Holidays. While I wasn't staying there, I'd heard wonderful things about the place. It is known for its beautiful location and comfortable accommodations. I took a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings, a perfect example of the peaceful Icelandic countryside. The landscape views were truly inspiring.


Discover the serene beauty of Iceland at Snorrastadir Farm Holidays, the perfect campground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Next on the itinerary was the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum. Now, I must admit, I approached this visit with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. Fermented shark, or hákarl, isn't exactly known for its delicate flavor. But, as an environmental consultant who is always keen to learn about local traditions and sustainable practices, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to learn about this unique aspect of Icelandic culinary history.


Explore the unique cultural heritage of shark fishing at Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, a must-visit destination in Iceland for culinary and history enthusiasts.

The museum itself is a charming farmstead that has been in the same family for generations. The tour guide, who was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, explained the six-month process of fermenting the Greenland shark. Apparently, the shark meat needs this process to neutralize toxins. I learned about the history of shark hunting in Iceland and the biology of Greenland sharks. It was fascinating to see the tools and paraphernalia used in the process.

Of course, the highlight of the visit was the tasting. I steeled myself and took a bite. The taste? Well, it's definitely an experience. It’s similar to a strong, fermented cheese with an ammonia-like aroma. I was offered a shot of Brennivín, also known as “black death,” to chase the flavor. I have to say, the Brennivín did help! I found the whole experience incredibly interesting, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Icelandic people.

“Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones that challenge our palates and our perceptions.”

After the Shark Museum, I needed something to cleanse my palate, so I headed to Grundarfjörður for lunch at Mæstro Street Food. This cozy café by the harbor is known for its fantastic hot dogs made from lamb. It was exactly what I needed – a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal. I sat outside, enjoying the view of the harbor and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the town.


Discover authentic Icelandic street food at Mæstro in Grundarfjörður – a culinary gem surrounded by stunning landscapes.

With my stomach happy, I set off to find the Jules Verne monument. As a bit of a literature nerd, I was excited to pay homage to the author who immortalized Snæfellsjökull in his novel *Journey to the Center of the Earth*. The monument is located in Arnarstapi, and it’s a simple signpost depicting distances to different cities. I found it quite charming. It was a reminder of the power of literature to inspire and transport us to different worlds.


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

I took a moment to reflect on Verne's vision and the enduring appeal of his adventure stories. Snæfellsjökull, with its mystical aura, certainly feels like a gateway to another world. Standing there, I couldn't help but imagine Professor Lidenbrock and his nephew Axel embarking on their subterranean journey.

Before calling it a day, I did a little bit of shopping at Bókaverzlun Breiðafjarðar - Kram Stykkishólmi in Stykkishólmur. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remind me of my trip. I found some lovely handcrafted items and a few books by Icelandic authors.


Explore the enchanting Bókaverzlun Breiðafjarðar - Kram in Stykkishólmur, where books, candles, and unique treasures await every traveler.

For my final dinner in Snæfellsnes, I decided to treat myself to a meal at Skurinn in Stykkishólmur. This restaurant is known for its hamburgers, and I'd heard great things about their food. I ordered one of their specialty burgers, and it was delicious. A great and satisfying way to end my day.


Discover Skurinn: A culinary delight in Stykkishólmur offering mouthwatering burgers, wings & pizza amid Iceland's stunning scenery.

As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I feel a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. This solo trip to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula has been an incredible experience. I've seen stunning landscapes, learned about unique cultural traditions, and challenged myself in ways I never thought possible. I am also proud of myself for managing without a portable phone charger - although I would recommend that others bring one on their travels!

I am so grateful for this opportunity to connect with nature and experience the raw beauty of Iceland. The majestic waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier have left an indelible mark on my soul. I am also grateful for the chance to share my experiences with you, my readers. I hope that my stories have inspired you to explore the world responsibly and to embrace the unexpected [Emily's background].

Tomorrow, I will be heading back to Reykjavik to catch my flight back to Berlin. It's always a little bittersweet to end a trip, but I know that I will carry the memories of Snæfellsnes with me always. I am already looking forward to my next adventure!

Until then, takk fyrir (thank you) for following along on my journey.

Emily