Solo Adventure Through Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Whispers of the Past, Visions of the Present

Today, on day seven of my solo adventure through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, I was enveloped in the serene beauty and rich history that permeate this magical corner of Iceland. It was a day of quiet exploration, a chance to connect with the land and its stories, and to reflect on the journey so far. As the autumn colours deepen, painting the landscape in hues of gold and russet, I found myself drawn to the quieter, more contemplative aspects of this peninsula.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at the Harbour Cafe in Grundarfjörður. The cafe was cozy, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Icelandic coffee filled the air. I opted for the traditional Plokkfiskur, a fish stew that warmed me from the inside out, preparing me for the day's adventures. It's amazing to experience the culinary side of Iceland, especially with the chilly weather that October brings. The wind was definitely picking up outside, so I layered up accordingly. I made sure to pack my waterproof jacket, knowing how quickly the weather can change here.

First on the agenda was a visit to Snorrastadir Farm Holidays. Driving through the countryside, the landscape unfolded in a tapestry of rolling hills and rugged lava fields. Snorrastadir is a historic, family-run farm, and I was immediately charmed by its rustic appeal. Although I wasn't staying there, I was keen to explore the area. The farm is located near the trailhead of Eldborg crater, and while I didn't have time for a full hike, I took a short walk to admire the views. The crisp air and the panoramic vistas were invigorating.


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

As I wandered around, I couldn't help but think of Lina. She would have loved seeing the horses grazing peacefully in the fields. I made a mental note to bring her here someday, perhaps during the summer months when the weather is a bit milder. She would adore the cozy cabins and the chance to experience farm life firsthand.

Leaving Snorrastadir, I set my sights on Gufuskálar, a site steeped in maritime history. As I approached, the landscape transformed into a dramatic expanse of lava fields stretching towards the coastline. Gufuskálar was once a bustling fishing station, and remnants of this past are scattered across the area. I explored the ancient stone structures, cleverly built into circular formations, and imagined the lives of the fishermen who once relied on this place for their livelihood.


Explore Gufuskálar, a historical landmark revealing Iceland's maritime heritage amidst stunning coastal landscapes.

One of the most striking features of Gufuskálar is the towering 412-meter high antenna, originally built for the Loran navigation system in 1963. It now serves as an aerial mast for longwave broadcasting, a testament to the area's continued importance in communication. Nearby, I found the Írski brunnur, or the Irish well, a reminder of the early Irish settlers who once inhabited this peninsula. It was fascinating to learn about the layers of history embedded in this landscape.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from slowing down, observing, and connecting with the stories that a place has to tell.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. I chose a table with a view of Mount Stapafell, its peak shrouded in mist, and savored a bowl of flavorful mushroom soup with freshly baked bread. The restaurant was warm and inviting, a perfect respite from the brisk October air. I overheard other travelers discussing their plans to hike to the Stone Bridge and visit the Jules Verne monument, both located nearby.


Experience fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Arnarstapi Center's Snjófell Restaurant.

After lunch, I decided to explore Álftafjörður, a serene fjord known for its tranquil beauty. The drive there was stunning, with the road winding along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the water and the surrounding mountains. The fjord itself was a picture of serenity, with its calm waters reflecting the sky above. I parked the car and took a leisurely stroll along the shore, breathing in the fresh, salty air. The peace and quiet were a welcome contrast to the more crowded tourist spots I had visited earlier in the week. Although the weather in October can be unpredictable, today it was calm and beautiful.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Álfatjördur, a scenic spot in Iceland that offers stunning landscapes, tranquility, and unforgettable photo opportunities.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Stykkishólmur, a charming town on the northern side of the peninsula. My final destination for the day was Narfeyrarstofa, a restaurant known for its local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is located in one of the oldest houses in Stykkishólmur, adding to its charm. I settled in for a delicious dinner of fresh seafood, caught that very day. The meal was a perfect ending to a day of exploration and reflection. I even decided to stop at the bar downstairs for a quick drink before heading back to my accommodation.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to continue my journey, visiting the Stone Bridge, the Jules Verne monument, and the Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring. I'm particularly excited to taste the naturally carbonated mineral water at Ölkelduvatn, a unique experience that I've heard so much about. I also want to stop by Valeria Specialty Coffee & souvenirs for a little souvenir shopping.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences of the day. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has a way of captivating the soul, of drawing you into its stories and its landscapes. It's a place where the past and the present intertwine, where nature reigns supreme, and where every corner holds a new discovery. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, and to continue sharing my journey with you all.

The Northern Lights season is starting, but no luck tonight. I'm hopeful I'll get to see them before my trip is over. It's supposed to be a bit clearer later in the week, so fingers crossed! I'm also hoping the roads stay clear, as I'm planning on driving a bit more tomorrow. October can be tricky with the weather, but so far, it's been manageable.