Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park

Echoes of History and Hidden Paths

Today, Lena and I ventured deeper into the heart of Snæfellsjökull National Park, seeking out places where the echoes of Iceland's past resonate. Our journey was a blend of historical exploration and the thrill of discovering hidden natural gems, a reminder of how interwoven Iceland's history and landscape truly are. It's days like these that make me appreciate our decision to escape the city and immerse ourselves in nature's embrace.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Viðvík Restaurant. The panoramic views of Snæfellsjökull glacier and Breiðafjörður set the perfect tone for a day of exploration. Fuelled up, we set off towards Gufuskálar, a place that whispered tales of Iceland's maritime past.


Explore Gufuskálar, a historic landmark in Ólafsvík, Iceland, where maritime heritage meets stunning coastal scenery, perfect for nature and history lovers.
As we approached Gufuskálar, the landscape transformed into a rugged expanse of lava fields meeting the sea. This historical landmark in Ólafsvík was once a thriving fishing station, particularly during the 19th century when fishing was the lifeblood of Iceland. Today, the remnants of old fishermen's huts and storage sheds stood as silent witnesses to a bygone era. It wasn't hard to imagine the bustling activity that once filled this place, the fishermen braving the harsh seas, and the families who called this rugged coastline home.

Wandering through the ruins, I was struck by the ingenuity of the Icelanders who managed to carve out a living in such a harsh environment. The stone structures, though weathered by time, blended seamlessly into the landscape, a testament to their resourcefulness. We walked along the beach, the wind whipping around us, and I tried to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago. The waves crashed against the shore, a constant reminder of the power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

The past is never dead. It's not even past. – William Faulkner

One of the most intriguing aspects of Gufuskálar is its connection to Irish settlers. Legend has it that Irish hermits lived in this area even before the Vikings arrived. Place names like Írski brunnur (the Irish well), Írskabyrgi, and Írskubúðir (dwelling places of the Irish) hint at this early connection. We searched for Írskrabrunnur - the Well of the Irish, an ancient water source that served the area for centuries. It's said that the Viking settler Ketill gufa Örlygsson stayed at Gufuskálar for some winters. The well was lost for many years, buried under sand, until it was rediscovered in 1989. Standing by the well, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of people who had drawn water from this very spot, a tangible link to Iceland's distant past.

Leaving Gufuskálar, we drove towards our next destination: the National Park Secret Entrance. The drive itself was stunning, with the autumn colors painting the landscape in hues of gold and red. As we ventured further into Snæfellsjökull National Park, we sought out a less-traveled path, eager to discover a hidden gem away from the usual tourist spots.


Explore the tranquil beauty of the National Park Secret Entrance, a hidden gem in Ólafsvík, offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Following the GPS coordinates, we found ourselves on a gravel road that wound its way through a surreal landscape of volcanic rock formations and windswept plains. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of moss and sea salt. We parked the car and continued on foot, guided by a small sign that read National Park Secret Entrance. The path led us through a narrow gorge, the walls of which were covered in vibrant green moss. The entrance felt like a portal to another world, a place where time stood still and nature reigned supreme.

As we walked deeper into the park, the landscape opened up into a breathtaking vista of rolling hills, pristine lakes, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. We were completely alone, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of the importance of preserving these wild spaces for future generations. Lena and I found a secluded spot by a small stream and sat in silence, simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. It was moments like these that made our trip so special, a chance to disconnect from the noise of modern life and reconnect with each other and with nature.

For lunch, we stopped at Lýsuhóll, a charming restaurant known for its Icelandic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We savored traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, a welcome treat after our morning of hiking. The restaurant also offers horseback riding, an activity we considered but ultimately decided to save for another day.


Experience authentic Icelandic hospitality at Lýsuhóll - where great food meets breathtaking landscapes in Snæfellsbær.
After lunch, we made a stop at Hrund, a local shop in Ólafsvík. It was a treasure trove of Icelandic souvenirs and handicrafts, showcasing the creativity and artistry of the region. Lena, with her keen eye for unique finds, spent ages browsing through the shelves, while I chatted with the friendly owner about the local culture and traditions. We ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf and a small piece of lava art, perfect mementos of our trip.


Explore Hrund Gift Shop in Ólafsvík for unique Icelandic crafts, souvenirs, and local treasures that capture the spirit of Iceland.
As the day drew to a close, we headed to Arnarbær for dinner. The restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the menu featured a variety of local seafood dishes. We savored the flavors of Iceland, reflecting on the day's adventures and the beauty we had witnessed. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant, combined with the delicious food, made for a perfect end to our fourth day in Snæfellsjökull National Park.


Discover culinary delights at Arnarbær in beautiful Arnarstapi, where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bæjarfoss and the Stone Bridge. I'm particularly excited about the Stone Bridge, hoping to capture some stunning photographs of this natural wonder. And who knows, maybe we'll end the day at the Harbour Cafe, soaking in the local atmosphere.

As I write this, nestled in our tent under the vast Icelandic sky, I can't help but feel grateful for this experience. Snæfellsjökull National Park has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding you of the simple beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it for future generations. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, where every stone has a story to tell, and where every path leads to a new discovery. Tonight, as I drift off to sleep, I'll dream of hidden entrances, ancient wells, and the whispers of Iceland's past.