Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park

Finding Peace and Flavor in Snæfellsnes

Today was a day of simple pleasures and quiet discoveries. Lena and I ventured deeper into the Snæfellsjökull National Park, seeking out hidden gems and savoring the local flavors. It's amazing how quickly you can disconnect from the world when surrounded by such raw, untouched beauty. The crisp air, the vast landscapes, and the sheer tranquility of the place have a way of resetting your mind.

Our first stop this morning was Bárðarlaug, a small lake with a big story. After a hearty breakfast at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food , we set off with anticipation. The drive itself was a treat, with the Icelandic landscape unfolding before us in all its glory. The autumn colors were starting to emerge, painting the hills in hues of red, orange, and gold. October in Iceland is proving to be quite the spectacle.


Experience the serene beauty of Bárðarlaug, a hidden gem in Hellnar, Iceland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations.

Bárðarlaug is said to be the bathing place of Bárður Snæfellsás, the protector of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Legend has it that Bárður, a half-troll, half-human, used this explosive crater to bathe. Standing by the tranquil waters, it was easy to imagine him there, finding solace in the serene surroundings. The lake was incredibly peaceful, reflecting the sky above like a mirror. We spent some time simply taking in the view, enjoying the quiet solitude before other travelers arrived. It's a small lake, more like a pond, really, but its history and the surrounding landscape make it a special place.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest places.

Next on our itinerary was Lýsuhóll, a place that promised a different kind of experience. We drove south, enjoying the views of the peninsula. Lýsuhóll is a family-run horse farm that also features cottages and a restaurant. It’s known for its horse-riding tours along the beach and lava fields, but since we weren’t planning on riding today, we decided to have lunch at their restaurant. The area around Lýsuhóll is beautiful, with rolling hills and views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance. The low light pollution also makes it a great spot for Northern Lights viewing, though we weren't lucky enough to see them today.


Experience the flavors of Iceland and the thrill of horseback riding at Lýsuhóll in Snæfellsbær, a perfect retreat for all travelers.

Lunch at Lýsuhóll was a treat. The restaurant offers a unique Icelandic dinner buffet, and the cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home. Lena particularly enjoyed the traditional Icelandic dishes, while I was fascinated by the opportunity to try some local specialties. After lunch, we took a stroll around the farm, admiring the Icelandic horses and the peaceful countryside. It was a relaxing break, a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hellnar, a small village known for its stunning coastal views. We decided to stop by Fosshotel Hellnar for a drink at their bar. The hotel is in a great location, with views of the ocean and the cliffs. The bar was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed a couple of local beers while taking in the scenery. Apparently, it's not uncommon to spot Orcas swimming offshore from here, but we weren't so lucky today.


Experience the beauty of Iceland at Fosshotel Hellnar, a cozy hotel and restaurant in the heart of nature's paradise.

For dinner, we drove to Hellissandur, a small town a short distance from Hellnar, to try Matarlist. This restaurant is run by a mother-and-son team and has a reputation for serving top-notch Icelandic cuisine. The menu is small, but everything is prepared with care and attention to detail. I opted for the fish of the day, which was cod, and Lena chose the lamb shank. Both dishes were delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect end to a wonderful day.


Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine at Matarlist in Hellissandur—where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.

Reflecting on today’s adventures, I realize how much I appreciate these quieter moments. The grand vistas are breathtaking, but it’s the small discoveries, the chance encounters, and the simple pleasures that truly make a trip memorable. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gufuskálar and a secret entrance to the National Park [according to our itinerary]. I’m excited to see what other hidden gems we can uncover in this magical place. Before that though, we will have breakfast at Viðvík Restaurant, lunch at Lýsuhóll and dinner at Arnarbær. Also, we might want to check out the shop called Hrund.

Snæfellsjökull National Park continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a place where nature reigns supreme and where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and to sharing them with you all.