Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park

Rif's Canvas: A Day Immersed in Art and Icelandic Charm

Today was a day of vibrant discoveries here in Snæfellsjökull National Park. Lena and I set out to explore the small town of Rif, known for its captivating murals and authentic Icelandic experiences. It was a journey filled with color, flavor, and the warmth of Icelandic hospitality.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant. The spread was impressive, featuring a variety of Icelandic delicacies. I particularly enjoyed the Skyr, a traditional yogurt, which gave me a real taste of Iceland. Lena, of course, was in heaven with the freshly baked bread and local cheeses. Fuelled and ready for the day, we set off to explore the Murals of Rif.


Discover the vibrant Murals of Rif, an outdoor gallery that showcases stunning street art, reflecting the rich culture and history of the region.
As we strolled through the streets, we were immediately struck by the explosion of color and creativity. The murals told stories of the town's history, its connection to the sea, and the vibrant spirit of its people. Each artwork was unique, reflecting the diverse styles and perspectives of the artists. I found myself particularly drawn to one mural depicting a whale breaching through a constellation, a beautiful blend of biology and fantasy. Lena, with her keen eye for detail, noticed the intricate patterns and symbolism woven into each piece. It was like walking through an open-air art gallery, each corner revealing a new surprise.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After immersing ourselves in the art scene of Rif, our stomachs started to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We headed to Arnarstapi, a short drive away, and found ourselves at FRISTA Food Truck Arnarstapi.


Experience authentic Icelandic street food at FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi while enjoying stunning views of nature's beauty.
This wasn't just any food truck; it was a culinary gem, renowned for its exceptional fish and chips. The fish was incredibly fresh, coated in a crispy, perfectly seasoned batter. I opted for the classic cod, while Lena tried the plaice, both equally delicious. We devoured our meal at one of the picnic tables, enjoying the stunning coastal views and the crisp Icelandic air. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, a testament to the quality of Icelandic ingredients.

With our appetites sated, we decided to explore more of what Rif had to offer. We stumbled upon Útgerðin - Concept Store & Wine Room.


Explore Útgerðin in Hellissandur: A unique fusion of art, coffee, and wine in a cozy, creative atmosphere.
This place was a delightful surprise, a unique blend of a store, art gallery, coffee shop, wine bar, and yarn store. We spent a good hour browsing the local art and handmade crafts, each piece telling a story of Icelandic culture. Lena, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, found a beautiful hand-knitted scarf made from Icelandic wool. I, on the other hand, was drawn to the cozy wine room, where I sampled a local red wine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a perfect place to relax and soak in the ambiance.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ólafsvík for dinner. We had made a reservation at Reks.


Discover Reks in Ólafsvík: A Culinary Haven Serving Authentic Icelandic Cuisine with Stunning Coastal Views.
a restaurant known for its innovative and traditional Icelandic cuisine. The ambiance was cozy and welcoming, the perfect setting for a memorable meal. We started with a seafood soup, rich and flavorful, followed by the catch of the day, Arctic char, cooked to perfection. The ingredients were fresh and locally sourced, a true reflection of Iceland's culinary heritage. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, recommending the perfect wine pairing for our meal. It was a culinary journey, a celebration of Icelandic flavors.

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a brief stop at the Whale Mural.


Discover the vibrant Whale Mural in Grundarfjörður, a stunning tribute to Iceland's marine life waiting to be explored.
Though the mural is actually located in Grundarfjörður, we decided to take a short detour to see the vibrant piece of street art. The mural served not only as a visual delight but also as a cultural landmark, reflecting the town's connection to the sea and its inhabitants.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Rif had to offer. It was more than just a small town; it was a canvas of art, a culinary haven, and a place where Icelandic culture came alive. As we drove back, the Northern Lights began to dance across the sky, a magical end to a perfect day. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Minifoss and The Torch, eager to uncover more hidden gems in this enchanting corner of Iceland. I’m also looking forward to stopping at Valeria Specialty Coffee & souvenirs to pick up some gifts for our families back in Potsdam.

As I sit here in our tent, the wind gently howling outside, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Snæfellsjökull National Park has exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Lena is already fast asleep beside me, dreaming of whales and waterfalls, no doubt. I think I'll join her now, ready to embrace another day of adventure in this untamed land.