Solo Adventure Through Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

A Fond Farewell to Snæfellsnes

As my solo journey through Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences and breathtaking landscapes I've encountered. Today was a day of soaking in the last moments of this magical place, filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights. It’s hard to believe it’s already the final day; time really does fly when you’re surrounded by such raw beauty.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at the Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant. The family-run hotel exuded warmth, and the breakfast buffet offered a delightful spread of Icelandic delicacies. Fuelling up with some Skyr and freshly baked bread, I prepared myself for a day of exploration. It felt like a proper send-off, a cozy start to a day filled with reflection and appreciation.

My first stop was the Norwegian House in Stykkishólmur. This historical building, constructed in 1832, was the first wood-frame residence with two full-sized stories in Iceland, its timber imported from Norway. Inside, the museum unveiled the deep-rooted connections between Norway and Iceland, showcasing artifacts and stories of maritime history. Wandering through the exhibits, I felt a sense of connection to the past, imagining the lives of those who had walked these same floors centuries ago. It was fascinating to learn about the cultural exchanges and the impact of trade on this remote peninsula.


Explore the Norwegian House in Stykkishólmur, a museum that unveils Iceland's maritime heritage and cultural history in a stunning coastal setting.

Stykkishólmur itself is a charming town. As I strolled along the harbor, I couldn't help but admire the colorful buildings and the serene atmosphere. The town has a rich history as a trading post, dating back to the mid-16th century. The fresh sea air and the stunning views of Breiðafjörður fjord created a sense of tranquility. I decided to pop into Bókaverzlun Breiðafjarðar - Kram Stykkishólmi, a local bookstore and gift shop.

Inside, I was greeted by shelves filled with Icelandic literature, unique gifts, and local crafts. It was the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs for Jihad, Lina, and myself, little reminders of this incredible journey. I chose a beautifully illustrated book of Icelandic folk tales for Lina, hoping to spark her imagination with stories of elves and hidden creatures. For Jihad, I found a handcrafted wooden carving of a Viking ship, a symbol of strength and resilience. And for myself, I couldn't resist a cozy, hand-knitted wool scarf, perfect for Toronto’s chilly winters.

The journey may be ending, but the memories and experiences will forever be etched in my heart.

Next on the itinerary was Lóndrangar, the majestic basalt pinnacles rising from the coastline. These volcanic plugs, remnants of an ancient crater, have been shaped by the relentless force of the Atlantic Ocean over millions of years. As I approached the cliffs, I was struck by their sheer size and dramatic presence. The wind howled around me, and the waves crashed against the rocks below, creating a symphony of nature's power. I spent some time simply taking in the view, feeling a sense of awe and humility in the face of such ancient formations.


Discover the breathtaking Lóndrangar sea stacks in Iceland, a natural wonder on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula perfect for adventure and photography.

The folklore surrounding Lóndrangar adds another layer of mystique to the site. Legend has it that trolls and elves inhabit these cliffs, guarding the land and sea. I could almost imagine them lurking in the shadows, their presence adding to the magical atmosphere. I walked along the edge of the cliffs, marveling at the guillemots and kittiwakes nesting in the steep slopes. The air was filled with their calls, a constant reminder of the vibrant life that thrives in this rugged landscape.

For lunch, I stopped at Skipper Restaurant in Stykkishólmur. This cozy, family-owned restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere. I ordered the fish and chips, a classic Icelandic dish, and savored every bite. The fish was perfectly cooked, and the chips were crispy and golden. As I ate, I watched the boats bobbing in the harbor, feeling a sense of contentment and gratitude. It was the perfect way to recharge before my final adventure of the day.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Skipper Restaurant in Stykkishólmur, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy setting.

My last stop was Rauðhóll, a red volcanic crater offering panoramic views of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The hike to the top was relatively easy, and the views from the summit were simply breathtaking. I could see for miles in every direction, the rugged coastline, the snow-capped mountains, and the vast lava fields stretching out before me. The crater itself was a striking shade of red, a testament to the volcanic activity that has shaped this land.


Explore Rauðhóll, an enchanting hiking area on Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where breathtaking landscapes and unique geological features await.

As I stood there, taking in the view, I reflected on my journey through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. I had come seeking adventure and natural beauty, and I had found so much more. I had discovered a land of contrasts, where fire meets ice, and where ancient legends come to life. I had connected with the raw power of nature, feeling both humbled and inspired by its grandeur. And I had experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Icelandic people, who welcomed me with open arms and shared their stories and traditions.

The sun began to set as I made my way back down from Rauðhóll, casting a golden glow over the landscape. I drove to Grundarfjörður for my farewell dinner at Bjargarsteinn Mathús. This charming restaurant is known for its stunning views and its commitment to using local ingredients. I savored a delicious meal of freshly caught seafood, paired with a glass of Icelandic craft beer. The flavors were exquisite, a perfect reflection of the region's culinary heritage.


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

The restaurant itself has an interesting history. The old building was originally built as a home in Akranes in 1908. In 2014, it was transported to Grundarfjörður and rebuilt as a restaurant, with the dream of finding a plot of land with exceptional views. And they certainly succeeded! The views from the restaurant are simply stunning, with the mountains and the ocean stretching out before you.

As I finish my meal, I raise a toast to Snæfellsnes, to Iceland, and to the adventures that await me in the future. Tomorrow, I will be heading back to Reykjavik to catch my flight back home to Toronto. It’s hard to say goodbye, but I know that I will carry the memories of this journey with me always. And who knows, maybe one day I’ll be back to explore more of this incredible island.

Until then, takk fyrir, Iceland. Thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the inspiration. You have captured my heart, and I will never forget you.

Tomorrow marks the end of this incredible journey. It’s time to pack my bags and head back to Reykjavik for my flight home. While I’m excited to see Jihad and Lina, a part of me will always remain here, amidst the breathtaking landscapes and warm-hearted people of Iceland.