Exploring the Wonders of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Friends

First Day Wonders: Snaefellsnes Peninsula Beckons

Ah, Iceland! The land of fire and ice has always held a special allure for me, Fatima. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Bonn, even just for a week, always fills me with a mix of excitement and a touch of melancholy. But this trip is different. I'm not just visiting; I'm embarking on a journey to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula with some of my dearest friends. This 'Iceland in Miniature' promises a landscape so diverse, it feels like stepping into another world.

The flight from Bonn was smooth, and soon enough, we were touching down in Reykjavik. The September air was crisp, carrying a hint of the sea. After picking up our rental car, a sturdy vehicle ready to tackle Iceland's rugged roads, we set off towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The drive itself was a scenic prelude, with rolling hills and quaint villages dotting the landscape. I already missed Klaus and Sofia, but I knew this adventure would bring stories to share when I returned. It's important to nurture my own interests, even as a wife and mother. I need to keep exploring the world.

Our first stop was the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. It was essential for us to gather as much information as possible about the peninsula. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing us with maps and suggesting hidden gems we might otherwise have missed. I made sure to grab a few brochures, my camera already itching to capture the stunning vistas that awaited us. The center itself had interesting exhibits showcasing the natural and cultural history of the area.


Discover the heart of Snæfellsnes Peninsula at the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center, your go-to hub for exploration and insights into Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

From there, we ventured into Snæfellsjökull National Park. The park is open all year round, with no entrance fee. The dramatic landscapes immediately captivated us. The park stretches from the top of the mountain all the way down to the ocean. The weather in September can be quite cool, with average temperatures around 47°F. Dressing warmly was definitely a good call. We spent hours simply driving through the park, stopping at various viewpoints to soak in the scenery. The glacier-topped volcano, Snæfellsjökull, loomed majestically in the distance, shrouded in mist. I could feel the energy that many spiritually minded people sense when close to it.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Snæfellsjökull National Park, a jewel of Iceland's natural heritage.

Next on our itinerary was the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. As we approached Arnarstapi, the landscape transformed into a dramatic display of basalt columns and rugged cliffs. The statue itself is an imposing figure, standing six meters tall and depicting Bárður holding a large rock. Bárður Snæfellsás is a legendary figure from Icelandic folklore, a half-giant, half-human believed to be the protector of the region. The statue, created by Ragnar Kjartansson in 1978, pays homage to this mythical guardian. It was easy to see why this statue has become a popular tourist attraction. The intricate details of the sculpture reflected the cultural significance of Bárður Snæfellsás.


Discover the enchanting Bárður Snæfellsás Statue in Arnarstapi, a monument that encapsulates Icelandic folklore amidst breathtaking landscapes.

We then made our way to the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. The fresh ocean breeze invigorated us as we gazed upon the towering cliffs and crashing waves. The geology of the area was fascinating, with unique rock formations telling the story of Iceland's volcanic origins. I spotted various seabirds nesting on the cliffs, including guillemots and razorbills. The cliffs rise sharply from the North Atlantic Ocean, offering panoramic views of rugged volcanic rock formations. The viewpoint is easily accessible via scenic walking paths. From the cliffs, we could catch a glimpse of other natural wonders like Lóndrangar.


Discover the stunning vistas of Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, where rugged cliffs meet the North Atlantic, offering unforgettable views and natural beauty.

For breakfast, we stopped at Hlaðan Veitingahús. The restaurant has vegan options available. Although I didn't get a chance to write a review yet, I plan to share my experience with the HappyCow community.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hlaðan Veitingahús, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Snæfellsnes.

Lunch was at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The Snjófell Restaurant offers quality local food from the surroundings of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It was a cozy spot with friendly service. I enjoyed a flavorful soup with traditional bread and Icelandic butter. The restaurant offers a seasonal Contemporary American menu utilizing locally sourced ingredients.


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

As evening approached, we headed to Bjargarsteinn Mathús for dinner. The restaurant had exceptional views of the Kirkjufell mountain. The building itself has an interesting history, originally built in Akranes in 1908 and later transported to Grundarfjörður. The dream was to find a plot of land with exceptional views, and they found it by the coastal ridge in the seaside village of Grundarfjörður. The owners opened the restaurant in July 2015.


Discover Bjargarsteinn Mathús: A delightful dining experience showcasing local flavors amidst breathtaking views in Grundarfjörður, Iceland.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited about visiting Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar. I'm also intrigued by the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum. And perhaps we'll end the day with a drink at Hjála Góðu Fólki.

Back at our guesthouse, I reflected on the day's adventures. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula had already exceeded my expectations. The blend of dramatic landscapes, rich folklore, and warm hospitality was truly captivating. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this magical corner of the world with my friends. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of glaciers, volcanoes, and the mystical energy of Iceland. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

The weather in Snæfellsnes in September is quite cool, but it is endurable by dressing cosy. The high seasonal norm is 50°F, and the minimum is 45°F. The climate is wet, with around 4.7 inches of precipitation over 7 days. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and shorter days. I am glad I packed warm clothes!

The peninsula has a special atmosphere. It is nicknamed “Iceland in Miniature”, which means that it's got a little bit of everything: lava fields and a stunning coastline, craggy mountains with plenty of waterfalls rushing down their sides, and a beautiful glacier as well. I am excited to explore more tomorrow!

Many of the locality names on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, including Snæfellsnes itself, find their origins in the Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss. This saga, with its mix of trolls, giants, and witches, provides colorful accounts of the landscape's nomenclature.