Exploring the Mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Friends

A Day of Myth and Majesty on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Today was a day of venturing into the heart of the earth and witnessing mythical sentinels guarding the coast. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has truly lived up to its reputation as 'Iceland in Miniature,' offering a condensed version of the country's diverse and dramatic landscapes. It felt like stepping into a realm where legends come to life, and I couldn't wait to share every moment with you all.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Stapinn in Arnarstapi. I opted for the classic Icelandic skyr with berries and a strong coffee to prepare for the day's adventures. The café was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to explore the wonders of the peninsula. Stapinn is a cozy eatery known for its fish and chips, praised for its crispy texture and well-seasoned taste. Maximilian would have loved their fish and chips!


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where delicious food meets breathtaking coastal views.

Our first stop was Snæfellsjökull National Park, a place where the raw beauty of Iceland truly shines. The park is dominated by the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano, which, as many of you know, holds a special place in literary history, thanks to Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth. Even though I knew we wouldn't *actually* be descending into the earth's core, the sense of adventure was palpable. The weather in April is still quite unpredictable, with a mix of snow and sunshine, but today, the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a magical glow on the landscape.


Explore the breathtaking natural beauty and adventure of Snæfellsjökull National Park, a gem of Iceland known for its glacier-capped volcano and diverse landscapes.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Next, we ventured into the depths of Vatnshellir Cave. This 8,000-year-old lava cave offered a fascinating glimpse into the island's volcanic past. Descending into the cave felt like entering another world. The tour guide, a local geologist, shared captivating stories about the cave's formation and the unique rock formations within. As we turned off our lights for a moment of complete darkness, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the forces that shaped this subterranean landscape.


Discover the enchanting Vatnshellir Cave in Iceland, a captivating natural wonder nestled in Snæfellsjökull National Park, perfect for adventure seekers.

Emerging from the cave, we were ready for lunch, and FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi was calling our name. This unassuming food truck has earned a reputation for serving some of the best fish and chips in Iceland. I opted for the classic cod and fries, and I must say, it was absolutely delicious! The fish was incredibly fresh, and the batter was perfectly crispy. We enjoyed our lunch at a nearby picnic table, soaking in the stunning coastal views. I made sure to take a snapshot for Astrid; I know she would have loved the crispy fries!


Experience delicious meals at FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi, where stunning views meet exceptional flavors on your Icelandic adventure.

Our final stop of the day was the Lóndrangar View Point. These towering basalt rock pinnacles rising from the sea are truly a sight to behold. Legend has it that they are the home of elves and trolls, and standing there, gazing at these dramatic formations, it wasn't hard to believe. The wind was strong, and the waves crashed against the cliffs, creating a symphony of natural sounds. I spent a long time simply taking in the view, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such raw and untamed beauty. The Lóndrangar are remnants of a volcanic crater, sculpted by the relentless forces of the sea and wind. The taller of the two pillars stands at 75 meters, a testament to nature's enduring power.


Discover the breathtaking vistas at Lóndrangar View Point, where Iceland's rugged beauty meets the Atlantic, ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Before heading back, I decided to treat myself to a skyr bowl at Ísey Skyr Bar. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, and the creamy skyr was incredibly satisfying. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of their skyr bowl recipes back in Berlin.


Experience the best of Icelandic health food at Ísey Skyr Bar, featuring delicious skyr and refreshing juices in the heart of Borgarnes.

For dinner, we decided to try Arnarbær, also in Arnarstapi. This restaurant is known for its local Icelandic cuisine, and I was eager to try something new. I opted for the lamb soup, a hearty and comforting dish that warmed me from the inside out. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with adventure and exploration. The restaurant offers the best quality seafood and different flavors of pizzas. Despite being in Iceland, the prices are considered reasonable by many patrons. The nice atmosphere made a good impression on me.


Discover culinary excellence at Arnarbær in scenic Arnarstapi—where traditional Icelandic flavors meet breathtaking coastal views.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences of today. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Saxhóll Crater, Djúpalónssandur Beach, and marvel at more lava rock formations. I’m also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Álfar og Tröll ehf. I'm sure it will be another day filled with wonder and adventure. Until then, takk fyrir and good night!

I did miss Maximilian and Astrid today. I found myself wishing they were here to share these incredible moments with me. I know Astrid would have been fascinated by the lava cave, and Maximilian would have appreciated the geological wonders of the national park. But I take comfort in knowing that I'm collecting memories and experiences that I can share with them when I return home.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a reminder that the most extraordinary adventures often lie just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.