Solo Adventure Through Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

A Peninsula of Dreams

Today marked the beginning of my solo adventure through Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and what a start it has been! From charming visitor centers to majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls, every moment felt like stepping into a postcard. The crisp October air nipped at my cheeks, but the stunning landscapes warmed my soul. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect introduction to this magical corner of the world.

The first stop on my itinerary was the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. Located at the entrance to the peninsula, it was an invaluable resource, brimming with maps, brochures, and the kind of local insight you just can't find online. The staff were incredibly helpful, pointing out hidden gems and offering tips for navigating the area. It’s amazing how much richer a travel experience can be with just a little local knowledge. Plus, after the long flight from Toronto, the clean public restrooms were a welcome sight. I even grabbed a few extra brochures for Lina, knowing she’d love looking at the pictures when I get back. I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger; relying solely on the car charger might be a rookie mistake.

With a plan in hand, I set off to see Kirkjufell Mountain, arguably the peninsula's most iconic landmark. As I approached Grundarfjörður, the mountain's distinctive shape dominated the horizon, living up to its nickname, Church Mountain. Even in October, the landscape retained a touch of green, a stark contrast to the snow-dusted peak. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must look under the Northern Lights, a spectacle I hope to witness later in my trip. I found myself thinking about Jihad, wondering if he would enjoy climbing Kirkjufell. I made a mental note to research the difficulty of the hike for future reference.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, an iconic peak in Iceland, where nature's artistry meets adventure and tranquility.

Just a short drive from Kirkjufell, I arrived at Kirkjufellsfossar, the series of waterfalls that frame the mountain in countless photographs. The scene was even more stunning in person. The cascading water, the rugged rocks, and the majestic mountain created a tableau that felt almost surreal. I spent a good hour exploring the various vantage points, snapping photos from every angle. Even with my trusty camera, capturing the true essence of this place felt like an impossible task. I imagined Lina's excitement seeing the photos and hearing stories of Iceland when I return to Toronto. The crisp air was invigorating, and the sound of rushing water was incredibly soothing. It was the perfect spot to simply breathe and soak in the raw beauty of Iceland.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes in Iceland.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its grand landscapes, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature.

For lunch, I headed to Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður, a restaurant recommended by one of the Visitor Center staff. The restaurant is housed in an old building relocated from Akranes, adding to its charm. With its large windows offering panoramic views of the mountains and ocean, the setting was as delightful as the food. I savored freshly caught seafood, a testament to Iceland's commitment to local sourcing and sustainability. As I enjoyed my meal, I overheard snippets of conversations in Icelandic and other languages, a reminder of how far I had traveled and how many different people are drawn to this captivating island. I made a reservation for dinner tomorrow night, eager to experience more of their culinary delights.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

After lunch, I indulged in a bit of retail therapy at Kirkjufell knitting. I picked up a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf, a perfect souvenir for myself and a cozy reminder of my time here. The shop was filled with colorful Icelandic sweaters, hats, and other woolen goods, each piece showcasing the intricate patterns and craftsmanship of local artisans. It was fascinating to learn about the knitting techniques and the stories behind the designs from the friendly owners. I was very tempted to buy a traditional Icelandic sweater for Jihad, but decided to wait until I could find one in his favorite color. I'm sure Lina would love a cozy hat too, maybe with a fun, Icelandic design. I also noted that Kirkjufell Knitting offers live knitting demonstrations, which could be a fun experience if I have time later in the trip.


Discover the beauty of Icelandic craftsmanship at Kirkjufell Knitting in Grundarfjörður, a must-visit clothing store for unique souvenirs.

My final stop for the day was in Stykkishólmur for dinner at Narfeyrarstofa, a restaurant known for its local food menu and cozy atmosphere. Located in the oldest part of town, the restaurant exuded a quaint charm, with its warm and bright interior. I savored fresh fish and local mussels, enjoying the romantic and cozy atmosphere with a view over Stykkishólmur harbor. The staff were attentive, and the food was delicious, making it a perfect end to a day of exploration. I learned that Narfeyrarstofa offers vegan options, which is good to know for future reference. As I finished my meal, I reflected on the incredible day I had experienced, and I am looking forward to exploring Snæfellsjökull National Park tomorrow.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

As I drove back to my guesthouse, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The sky was ablaze with color, painting a masterpiece that no artist could ever replicate. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place, to connect with nature, and to discover the hidden gems of Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Tomorrow, I plan to explore Snæfellsjökull National Park, visit Vatnshellir Cave, and admire the Lóndrangar View Point. I might even stop by the Stapinn bar for a drink. I can't wait to see what adventures await me on day two. This trip is turning out to be exactly the kind of soul-recharging experience I needed. Good night from Iceland!