Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park

Echoes of the Epine and Coastal Charms

Today was a day of whispers, of echoes from the past carried on the wind. Lena and I set out to explore more of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a journey that took us through haunting shipwrecks and charming coastal villages, each with its own unique story to tell. It's amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into a single day, and I'm excited to share our discoveries.

Our first stop was a somber one: the remains of the Epine GY7 fishing trawler near Djúpalónssandur. The drive there was beautiful, the landscape transforming into a rugged coastline as we approached the beach. The October air was crisp, carrying the scent of the sea and a hint of rain, a typical Icelandic welcome. As we parked the car and started the short walk to the beach, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation mixed with respect for what we were about to see.

The remains of the Epine GY7 are scattered across the black pebble beach, a haunting reminder of the ship that wrecked here in 1948. It's a solemn place, marked by the rusted metal of the trawler against the stark beauty of the Icelandic coastline. Lena and I walked among the wreckage, imagining the lives of the fishermen who once sailed on this vessel, and the tragedy that unfolded on that fateful night. Fourteen seamen lost their lives that night; only five survived. The waves crashed against the shore, a constant, mournful soundtrack to the scene.


Explore the haunting beauty of the Remains of the Epine GY7 Fishing Trawler, a captivating relic set against Iceland's stunning natural landscape.

The sea remembers what we forget.

After paying our respects to the lost souls of the Epine, we drove to Keflavíkurvör, a historical landmark in Hellissandur. This site offered a different kind of connection to Iceland's past, a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited this rugged terrain long ago. The dramatic cliffs and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean made it easy to imagine the challenges and triumphs of early Icelanders. We walked along the paths, breathing in the fresh sea air and marveling at the landscape.


Explore the iconic Keflavíkurvör, a historical landmark in Hellissandur, and immerse yourself in Iceland's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.

For lunch, we stopped at Fosshotel Hellnar, a lovely restaurant with exceptional views over Hellnar's cliffed coasts. We were hoping to spot Orcas swimming offshore, but unfortunately, they remained elusive. Nevertheless, the unique Icelandic dishes and the cozy atmosphere made for a delightful break. Lena enjoyed a traditional lamb dish, while I opted for the fresh fish of the day. The flavors were authentic and comforting, a perfect complement to the stunning scenery outside the window.


Experience Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights at Fosshotel Hellnar - your perfect retreat on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

In the afternoon, we drove to Arnarstapi, a charming village known for its beautiful rock formations and coastal hikes. Before exploring the area, we stopped at Stapinn for a quick breakfast. This family-run restaurant offered a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I had a hearty bowl of lamb soup, while Lena enjoyed a delicious fish and chips.


Discover Stapinn: where traditional Icelandic flavors meet stunning coastal views in Arnarstapi.

After our meal, we decided to explore the coastline between Arnarstapi and Hellnar, a walk recommended by several locals. The path was easy to follow, and the views were simply breathtaking. We marveled at the unique rock formations, the crashing waves, and the diverse birdlife that calls this area home. The fresh air and the stunning scenery were invigorating, a perfect way to appreciate the natural beauty of Iceland.

Before dinner, we popped into Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður. This delightful gift shop offered a curated selection of unique souvenirs and local crafts. Lena found a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf, while I picked up a small piece of jewelry crafted from lava stone. It's always nice to find a little something to remind us of our travels.


Explore the magic of Iceland through unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður.

For dinner, we dined at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The seasonal Contemporary American menu featured locally sourced ingredients, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. I opted for the Icelandic meat soup, while Lena enjoyed the fish and chips. Both dishes were delicious and satisfying, a perfect end to a day of exploration.


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

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. Snæfellsjökull National Park continues to surprise and inspire us. The blend of history, nature, and local culture is truly captivating. We're already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore the Murals of Rif and the Whale mural. It’s supposed to be another day filled with art, exploration, and local charm, and perhaps we’ll even stop by Útgerðin - Concept Store & Wine Room for a glass of wine.

Today was a reminder of the power of travel to connect us to the past and to the beauty of the present. I am grateful for these experiences, and I look forward to sharing more of our journey with you.

October in Iceland is proving to be an adventure filled with unpredictable weather and stunning landscapes. We've packed our insulated jackets, warm layers, and waterproof gear, ready for anything from sunny skies to sudden rain. We're also keeping an eye on the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly. The average temperature in October ranges from 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F), but it can feel much colder with the wind chill. Despite the potential for inclement weather, we're determined to make the most of our time here, exploring the natural wonders and immersing ourselves in the local culture.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is known as Iceland in Miniature because it offers a little bit of everything that Iceland has to offer. From glaciers and volcanoes to lava fields and black sand beaches, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The peninsula is also home to charming fishing villages, historical sites, and a vibrant arts scene. We're excited to continue our exploration of this extraordinary Icelandic gem.

One thing I've learned on this trip is that Iceland is a land of contrasts. The landscape is both rugged and beautiful, the weather is both unpredictable and invigorating, and the people are both resilient and welcoming. It's a place that challenges you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unexpected. And for Lena and me, that's exactly what we're doing.

As we settle into our campsite for the night, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this experience. Iceland is a land that stays with you long after you've left, a place that whispers stories of the past and inspires dreams for the future. And I'm so glad to be sharing this journey with Lena, my partner in life and adventure. Good night from Snæfellsjökull National Park.