Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park

A Promising Start in Iceland

After months of planning and anticipation, Lena and I have finally arrived in Iceland, ready to explore the famed Snæfellsjökull National Park. The crisp October air greeted us as we stepped off the plane in Reykjavik. The journey to the park was filled with scenic drives, and a sense of excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Today was all about settling in and soaking up the initial impressions of this magical land.

Our day started early with a flight from Berlin to Reykjavik. As a sound engineer, I'm always attuned to the subtle hums and vibrations of travel, and the plane was no exception. There's a certain rhythm to air travel that I find both soothing and invigorating. Lena, ever the pragmatist, made sure we were well-prepared with travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones. After picking up our rental car, a sturdy little thing that I hope will withstand the Icelandic terrain, we set off towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The drive itself was a teaser of what's to come: vast lava fields, distant mountains, and the ever-present ocean on our side. We even spotted a few Icelandic horses grazing peacefully, their thick manes blowing in the wind.

Our first stop was the Harbour Cafe in Arnarstapi for a hearty breakfast. I opted for the traditional Plokkfiskur, a fish stew that was both comforting and flavorful. Lena chose the freshly baked pastries, which she declared were the perfect blend of sweet and savory. The cafe itself was charming, with large windows offering stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's explorations.


Experience delightful dining at Harbour Cafe in Grundarfjörður with locally sourced dishes and stunning scenic views.

    

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and ours began with a delicious breakfast and a breathtaking view.

After breakfast, we headed to Gestastofa á Malarrif (Visitor Center at Malarrif). As someone who appreciates the importance of context, I always make it a point to visit visitor centers at the start of any trip. This one did not disappoint. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable, providing us with insights into the park's geology, ecology, and history. The exhibits were well-curated, with interactive displays that engaged all our senses. I was particularly fascinated by the displays on the local flora and fauna, while Lena enjoyed the exhibits on Icelandic folklore and legends. We picked up maps and brochures, charting out potential hiking trails and viewpoints for the coming days. It's amazing how much richer an experience becomes when you understand the story behind the landscape.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Snæfellsjökull National Park at Gestastofa á Malarrif Visitor Center – your gateway to Iceland's natural wonders.

From the visitor center, we made our way to the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. The short hike from the town was easy. The view was nothing short of spectacular. The rugged coastline, the crashing waves, and the dramatic rock formations created a scene that felt both primordial and serene. I spent a good hour photographing the basalt columns and the Gatklettur arch, trying to capture the essence of this wild landscape. Lena, meanwhile, was busy birdwatching, spotting various seabirds nesting on the cliffs. As a sound engineer, I was captivated by the symphony of the ocean, the wind, and the cries of the birds. It's a soundscape I'll not soon forget.


Discover the awe-inspiring Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean in a breathtaking display of nature's beauty.

Lunch was a delightful experience at FRISTA Food Truck Arnarstapi. We both opted for their famous fish and chips, which came highly recommended. The fish was incredibly fresh, with a crispy batter that had a unique flavor. The sweet potato fries were also a hit. The food truck setting was casual and inviting, and the views of the coastline added to the overall experience. It was a perfect example of how simple food, done well, can be incredibly satisfying. Lena was impressed by the cleanliness of the truck.


Experience authentic Icelandic street food at FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi while enjoying stunning views of nature's beauty.

After lunch, we decided to explore the village of Arnarstapi a bit more. It's a small, charming place with a rich history. We walked along the harbor, admiring the colorful boats and the traditional Icelandic architecture. We even stumbled upon Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, which I understand is a community center and restaurant known for its home-style Icelandic food. Though it was closed, it gave us a sense of the local culture and community spirit. As we wandered, I couldn't help but think about how different this landscape is from my hometown in Greece. Yet, there's a certain timelessness to it that resonates with me.


Discover the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, where breathtaking views meet delightful flavors.

For dinner, we decided to try Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The restaurant's interior was a blend of contemporary design and cozy Icelandic charm, with large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. I ordered the Icelandic meat soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that warmed me from the inside out. Lena chose one of their vegetarian options, which she said was equally delicious. The service was friendly and attentive, and the overall atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It was a perfect way to end our first day in Iceland.


Experience Icelandic flavors at Arnarstapi Center's Snjófell Restaurant amidst breathtaking coastal views.

Before heading back to our campsite, we stopped by Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, hoping it would be open as a bar. While it wasn't, the quiet evening in Arnarstapi had its own charm. We found a peaceful spot to watch the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the sound of the waves. It was a moment of pure serenity, a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

As we settle into our tent, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to experience the beauty of Iceland with Lena. It's a far cry from my usual life in Potsdam, but that's precisely what makes it so special. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Snæfellsjökull itself and explore the Vatnshellir Cave [if tomorrow is not the last day]. I'm excited to see what adventures await us.

Quote of the day: Travel is not about escaping where you are, but experiencing where you aren't. Good night from Iceland!

Lena and I are both looking forward to seeing Snæfellsjökull itself tomorrow, and exploring the Vatnshellir Cave. Before that, we will grab breakfast at Sker Restaurant and lunch at Reks [if tomorrow is not the last day].