Exploring the Wonders of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Friends

Snaefellsnes Saga: Day Two

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true immersion into the heart of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula. From majestic mountains to peculiar culinary experiences, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. It felt like stepping into a living postcard, with landscapes that whispered tales of ancient sagas and hidden folklore. Join me as I recount our adventures, filled with laughter, stunning vistas, and a brave taste of Icelandic tradition.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Stapinn in Arnarstapi. The cozy, family-run restaurant offered a delightful start, fueling us up for the adventures ahead. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Icelandic coffee filled the air, a perfect beginning to a day promising so much.

With stomachs content, we set off towards Kirkjufell Mountain. As we approached, the mountain's iconic shape dominated the horizon, a majestic pyramid rising from the green landscape. The weather was kind, with a gentle breeze and soft sunlight that painted the scene in dreamy hues. I could see why it’s such a magnet for photographers; the light played on its slopes, creating a mesmerizing effect. Klaus, ever the pragmatic one, was fascinated by its geological formation, explaining how it was a nunatak, a mountain that stood tall even during the Ice Age. Sofia, of course, recognized it instantly from Game of Thrones, excitedly pointing out the 'arrowhead mountain'.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, a must-visit national park in Iceland, famed for its stunning landscapes and iconic waterfall.

Just a short distance away, we found ourselves at Kirkjufellsfossar, the waterfall that perfectly complements Kirkjufell. The cascades were elegant, and the scene was nothing short of magical. We spent what felt like hours capturing the perfect shot, each angle offering a unique perspective of the mountain and falls. The crisp air, filled with the sound of rushing water, made it so refreshing. I even managed to get a few shots of Sofia attempting to recreate poses she’d seen online, much to our amusement.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall nestled in the heart of Iceland, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the stories they whisper and the traditions they uphold.

Next on our itinerary was the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, an experience I had been anticipating with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The museum is located on a family farm, and it felt like stepping back in time. The friendly curators welcomed us, eager to share the secrets of hákarl, the traditional fermented shark.


Explore the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, a unique Icelandic attraction dedicated to the fascinating world of sharks and their significance in maritime culture.

The process of making hákarl is truly fascinating. The Greenland shark, which is poisonous when fresh, undergoes a fermentation process that takes months. It’s buried, hung, and meticulously prepared to neutralize the toxins. The museum showcased the family's fishing boats, tools, and a wealth of shark memorabilia. An informative video explained the entire procedure, which I found both intriguing and slightly horrifying.

Then came the moment of truth: the tasting. The pungent aroma hit me before I even saw the shark. It was… intense. Klaus, ever the adventurous eater, took a large bite and declared it an acquired taste. Sofia wrinkled her nose but bravely tried a tiny piece. I opted for the smallest morsel I could find. The taste was as strong as the smell, a mix of ammonia and… well, I’m not quite sure what else. We washed it down with a shot of Brennivín, the local schnapps, which certainly helped. It was an experience, to say the least, and one that I’m glad we shared.

After our daring culinary adventure, we drove to Ólafsvík for lunch at Sjávarkjallarinn. Though I couldn't find that specific restaurant, we stumbled upon a delightful spot that offered a seafood soup, a warm and comforting dish that was exactly what we needed after the shark tasting experience. The flavors were delicate and fresh, a welcome contrast to the hákarl.

In the late afternoon, we visited the local bar, Hjá Góðu Fólki, a charming spot known for its cozy atmosphere and local produce. It was a perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Sipping on a local beer, I watched as Klaus and Sofia played a game of checkers, their laughter filling the small space.


Discover the charm of Hjá Góðu Fólki, where exquisite Icelandic cuisine meets artistic inspiration in a picturesque setting.

For dinner, we headed to Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The restaurant had a contemporary design with cozy Icelandic charm, offering stunning views of Mount Stapafell. We savored traditional Icelandic meat soup and tender lamb dishes, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. It was the perfect end to a day filled with diverse experiences.


Experience Icelandic flavors at Arnarstapi Center's Snjófell Restaurant amidst stunning coastal views.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the chance to explore this incredible peninsula. The blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary adventures made it a day to remember. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, Gerðuberg Cliffs, and Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring [Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, Gerðuberg Cliffs, Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring].

Before drifting off to sleep, I took a moment to reflect on the day. I was thinking about my parents back in Azrou and how much they would have loved these landscapes. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes we tried today, adding my own Moroccan twist, of course. It's these little connections to home that make every journey even more special. I am also happy to be sharing this experience with my friends, as they are always welcome additions to any trip.

Good night from Snaefellsnes! I can't wait to share tomorrow's adventures with you all.