Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Friends

Day 1: Touching Down and Tuning In

Hello, Iceland! Today marked the start of our Snæfellsnes adventure, and what a day it has been! From the moment we landed, the raw, untamed beauty of this peninsula began to weave its magic. It's a blend of stark landscapes and cozy welcomes, a place where every turn promises a new discovery.

The flight from Berlin was smooth, and soon enough, the landscape outside the car window transformed into something otherworldly. Maximilian and Astrid would have loved this. I miss them already, but I know they're cheering me on from home. My friends and I picked up our rental car and started driving towards the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. The drive itself was an experience, with the landscape changing dramatically every few kilometers.

Our first stop was the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. It was a great place to get our bearings and learn about the peninsula's highlights. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing us with maps and tips that only locals would know. I even picked up a small, hand-knitted troll for Astrid – a little piece of Iceland to bring home to her. The center itself was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to explore this magical corner of Iceland. It's wonderful to see so many people drawn to this place, each with their own story and expectations.


Explore the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula at the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center, your gateway to Iceland's natural wonders and rich culture.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and today, our Icelandic saga began with a scenic drive and a warm welcome.

After gathering our intel, we headed to Hlaðan Veitingahús for breakfast. The cozy atmosphere and the smell of freshly baked bread were incredibly inviting. I opted for the traditional Icelandic skyr with berries, a creamy and tangy delight that perfectly captured the essence of the local cuisine. My friends went for the hearty lamb burgers, declaring them the best they'd had in ages. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we made our way to The Torch, an intriguing landmark that promised panoramic views. As we approached, the landscape opened up, revealing a vista of rolling hills and dramatic cliffs. The Torch itself was a sight to behold, a beacon of natural wonder that seemed to call out to the adventurous spirit within us. We spent a good hour there, soaking in the scenery and snapping photos. It's moments like these that make me realize how much I love traveling – the feeling of being completely present, surrounded by beauty that takes your breath away.


Explore The Torch in Snæfellsbær, Iceland – a stunning tourist attraction showcasing breathtaking views and unique architecture amidst natural beauty.

Next on our list was the Gerðuberg Cliffs, a geological marvel that I had been particularly excited about. As we drove closer, the basalt columns began to emerge, standing tall and proud against the horizon. It was like stumbling upon an ancient fortress, each column perfectly shaped and aligned. We parked the car and took a walk along the base of the cliffs, marveling at the sheer scale and symmetry of the formations. The way the light played on the hexagonal shapes was mesmerizing, creating a play of shadows and textures that seemed to shift with every passing moment.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gerðuberg Cliffs, Iceland's stunning natural wonder showcasing unique basalt columns and captivating landscapes.

Lunch was a delightful experience at Agnið streetfood in Stykkishólmur, a charming town known for its colorful houses and bustling harbor. We grabbed some fish tacos – Kyana Sue Powers from Rexby was right, they were amazing! The fish cheeks were so tender and flavorful, and the tacos were packed with fresh, local ingredients. It was the perfect quick bite to keep us going.


Experience the best of Icelandic fast food at Agnið Streetfood in Stykkishólmur - where flavor meets convenience.

Our final stop for the day was Bjargarsteinn Mathús for dinner. We enjoyed fresh seafood with a beautiful view and cozy atmosphere. I decided to try the Icelandic Weather cocktail, which the waiter recommended, and I was not disappointed. It was the perfect way to end a day full of exploration and discovery. The chef even created a special vegan dish for me, which was greatly appreciated.


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

As the day drew to a close, we found a cozy guesthouse nestled in the heart of the peninsula. The sky was awash with the soft hues of twilight, and a sense of peace settled over us. I spent some time journaling, reflecting on the day's adventures and the beauty that we had encountered. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore such a unique and captivating place.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, Bárður Snæfellsás Statue, and Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge. I can't wait to see what other wonders await us on this incredible journey. I'm also looking forward to stopping by Hvanneyri Pub for a drink in the evening. Until then, goodnight from Snæfellsnes!

The weather in Iceland during April can be unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared for all types of conditions. The roads are generally clear, but it's always a good idea to check the forecast before heading out. I'm glad I packed my warm hiking boots and waterproof jacket; they've already come in handy!

It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings!

I am also keeping an eye out for the Northern Lights, as April is still within the aurora season. I've heard that the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an excellent spot for viewing them, thanks to its minimal light pollution.

I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all. Stay tuned for tomorrow's update, where we'll delve deeper into the heart of Snæfellsnes and uncover more of its hidden gems.