Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park

Journey to the Center of the Earth (and Back!)

Today, Lena and I plunged into the depths of Snæfellsjökull National Park, a day filled with subterranean exploration and a taste of local Icelandic culture. It was a day where the earth revealed its secrets, and our palates rejoiced in the flavors of the region.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Snæfellsjökull, Iceland's majestic glacier and volcanic wonder, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sker Restaurant in Ólafsvík. Fuelled up with traditional Icelandic fare, we prepared ourselves for an adventure beneath the surface of the earth. The weather in October can be unpredictable, but today, we were fortunate to have clear skies, perfect for viewing Snæfellsjökull glacier later in the day.

Our first stop was the Vatnshellir Cave, a lava tube formed over 8,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption. The landscape of Snæfellsjökull National Park is truly unique, with diverse features from black sandy beaches to volcanic craters. As a sound engineer, I was particularly excited to experience the acoustics of an underground cave. Lena, ever the curious kindergarten teacher, was eager to learn about the cave's geology.


Explore the underground wonders of Vatnshellir Cave, a stunning lava tube in Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland's geological masterpiece.

We met our guide, geared up with helmets and flashlights, and descended into the depths. The spiral staircase leading into the cave was a marvel in itself, a modern addition that respected the natural wonder. Inside, the temperature dropped considerably; I was grateful for the warm layers we had packed. The air was heavy with the scent of minerals and damp earth.

As we ventured deeper, our guide shared stories of the cave's formation and the folklore surrounding it. The cave stretches 200 meters and drops 35 meters below the surface. The rock formations were incredible, shaped by the flow of lava over millennia. I couldn't help but imagine the earth rumbling as the volcano erupted, creating this subterranean world. Lena was fascinated by the different colors in the rocks, the result of various mineral deposits. The tour was educational and fun, perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone interested in geology.

It's a humbling experience to stand in a place shaped by the earth's raw power, a testament to the forces that have sculpted our planet.

At one point, our guide asked us to turn off our flashlights to experience complete darkness. It was an eerie but profound moment, a reminder of the hidden wonders that lie beneath our feet. I closed my eyes, listening to the silence, broken only by the occasional drip of water. It was a stark contrast to the bustling sounds of Potsdam, my home in Germany.

Emerging from the cave, blinking in the sunlight, we felt as though we had journeyed to the center of the earth and back. The experience was both humbling and exhilarating, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. We took a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, the majestic ice cap that sits atop the volcano.

Next on our itinerary was lunch at Reks in Ólafsvík. However, upon arrival, we discovered that Reks is permanently closed. Undeterred, we decided to explore other culinary options in the area. We ended up at a local café, enjoying hearty sandwiches and warming cups of coffee.

With our appetites sated, we drove towards Snæfellsjökull, eager to see the glacier up close. October offers incredible autumn lighting, perfect for photography. Although glacier hiking tours may be limited this time of year, the views from the base are still breathtaking. As we approached, the glacier loomed larger, its icy surface glistening in the afternoon sun. The raw and untouched beauty of this place has managed to grab the attention of famous writers and also artists across the world. I could see why Jules Verne chose Snæfellsjökull as the primary setting for his novel, *A Journey to the Center of the Earth*.

Unfortunately, we discovered that actually ascending Snæfellsjökull Glacier is limited in October. Glacier hiking is most accessible in the summer. We contented ourselves with viewing the glacier from a distance and resolved to return during the warmer months for a closer encounter.

Our final stop for the day was Wool ARTelier in Hellissandur, a charming art studio and store that showcases the unique textures and colors of Icelandic wool. As someone who appreciates the arts, I was eager to see the local craftsmanship. Lena, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, was excited to browse the handmade products.


Explore the creative world of Wool ARTelier, where Iceland's rich craftsmanship meets artistic expression in a charming studio setting.

The studio was filled with the warm scent of wool, an inviting ambiance that made us feel right at home. We admired the stylish sweaters, cozy hats, and artistic woolen decor, each piece telling a story of Icelandic heritage. I was particularly impressed by the intricate patterns and the dedication of the artisans. We chatted with one of the artists, learning about the traditional techniques used in wool crafting. Lena purchased a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, a perfect reminder of our trip to Snæfellsjökull.

For dinner, we had made reservations at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður. This family-run restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients and traditional Icelandic dishes. The restaurant itself has an interesting history; it was built in 1908 and transported to its current location in 2014.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Bjargarsteinn Mathús with stunning views in Grundarfjörður.

The ambiance was warm and inviting, with large windows offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. We started with a seafood soup, a hearty broth filled with fresh fish, shrimp, and mussels. For our main courses, Lena chose the lamb, while I opted for the freshly caught cod. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing means that many of the ingredients come from nearby farms and fisheries. The menu changes daily.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the depths of Vatnshellir Cave to the heights of Snæfellsjökull glacier (seen from afar), we had experienced the raw beauty and geological wonders of this unique national park. The disappointing closure of Reks was a minor setback, easily overcome by the charm and flavors of Bjargarsteinn Mathús.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bárðarlaug and Lýsuhóll, continuing our journey through the enchanting landscapes of Snæfellsjökull National Park. We might even stop by Fosshotel Hellnar for a drink in the evening. I am looking forward to whatever adventures await us.

The weather in Iceland in October can be unpredictable. The average temperature is between 2°C and 7°C (36°F to 45°F). Travelers should pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy walking shoes. Daylight hours are also shorter in October, so it's important to plan accordingly. Despite the challenges, October can be a great time to visit Iceland, with fewer crowds and the chance to see the Northern Lights.