Exploring Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Friends

Whispers of the Earth & Sky

Today, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula unveiled its raw, untamed beauty, a symphony of volcanic landscapes, hidden caves, and windswept shores. It was a day where the veil between reality and myth seemed thin, and every stone had a story to tell. I found myself lost in the echoes of ancient sagas and the breathtaking vistas that stretched as far as the eye could see.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa. The cozy atmosphere of the old community house was a welcome embrace against the cool morning air. Maximilian and Astrid thoroughly enjoyed the Icelandic pancakes, while I savored the *Mashed Fish with Potatoes*. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. The restaurant is known for home-made Icelandic food and its information center. Fuelled up we ventured into the heart of Snæfellsjökull National Park.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland's iconic natural wonder and adventure haven.

The park itself is a realm of dramatic contrasts, where the glacier-topped volcano, Snæfellsjökull, watches over fields of ancient lava. The weather in August here is relatively mild, with average temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F), but the wind can make it feel cooler. We were prepared with our layers, waterproof jackets at the ready. August is also known to have approximately 8 rainy days, so it's best to be prepared.

Our first stop was Sönghellir Cave, also known as the Song Cave. The drive there was an adventure in itself, requiring a 4-wheel-drive to navigate the F570 road. Astrid was thrilled by the bumpy ride, and Maximilian expertly handled the car. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a rugged expanse of lava fields. The cave is located on the northern flank of Mount Stapafell.


Explore Sönghellir Cave, a mystical historical landmark in Iceland, where nature and folklore intertwine in stunning geological formations.

Stepping inside Sönghellir was like entering another world. The cave is known for its unique acoustics, and we couldn't resist testing the echoes. Astrid's laughter reverberated through the chamber, creating a symphony of sound that danced along the ancient walls. We weren't the only ones to leave our mark here; the walls were covered in graffiti, including names of 18th-century travelers. It was a humbling reminder of the many souls who had sought shelter and wonder in this very spot. According to legend, the interior of the cave sheltered the family of the legendary 9th-century settler Bárður Snæfellsás, who is considered the guardian of the region's spirits.

The echoes of the past resonate deeply within these volcanic landscapes, reminding us of the powerful forces that have shaped this land.

Leaving Sönghellir, we set our sights on Rauðhóll, a striking red volcanic crater. The hike to the top was relatively easy, taking us through lava fields and past small ponds. The trail is about 2.55 km long and takes approximately 30-60 minutes. As we ascended, the panoramic views unfolded before us. To one side, the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier dominated the horizon. To the other, the coastline stretched out towards Öndverðarnes and Saxhól, a tapestry of black sand beaches and rugged cliffs. Rauðhóll is open all year, but it is advised that the path may be slippery due to ice during the winter, and the area is wet with mud during March until May.


Explore Rauðhóll, an enchanting hiking area on Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where breathtaking landscapes and unique geological features await.

Astrid was particularly fascinated by the vibrant red color of the crater, a result of the iron-rich lava that once flowed here. We spent some time exploring the rim, marveling at the raw power of nature and the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It's important to stick to the marked paths to protect the area from trampling.

As lunchtime approached, we drove to Grundarfjörður, a charming fishing village nestled at the foot of Kirkjufell mountain. Our destination was Mæstro - Street food, a popular spot known for its delicious Icelandic hot dogs. We found a picnic bench by the harbor and devoured our lamb hot dogs, complete with crispy fries and a generous helping of toppings. It was the perfect fuel for the afternoon ahead. They also offer subs along with buffalo fries & cheese fries.


Discover authentic Icelandic street food at Mæstro in Grundarfjörður – a culinary gem surrounded by stunning landscapes.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we decided to treat ourselves with a quick refreshment at Hverinn - Restaurant & Bar. We were able to enjoy a relaxing and cheerful atmosphere, tasting some of the local beers available at the bar. The restaurant also features stunning views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the dining experience with a touch of natural beauty.


Discover the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Hverinn - a cozy restaurant and bar offering local flavors in a picturesque setting.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Hotel Langaholt for dinner. The restaurant at Hotel Langaholt prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that reflect the flavors of the region. We opted for the dinner buffet, which featured a variety of local fish and seafood. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the chefs had prepared it in a multitude of ways – curried, pickled, baked, and pan-fried. It was a true celebration of Icelandic cuisine. They also bake all their bread and make their own jam and marmalade.


Discover breathtaking landscapes and delicious local cuisine at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant in Snæfellsbær, Iceland.

After dinner, as the midnight sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, we took a stroll along the nearby beach. The waves crashed against the shore, creating a soothing soundtrack to our reflections on the day. We talked about the caves, the craters, and the culinary delights we had experienced. It was a day that had touched our souls and deepened our connection to this extraordinary land.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Eldborg Crater Trailhead, the Gerðuberg Cliffs, and Álftafjörður. I am looking forward to discovering more of the peninsula's hidden gems and immersing ourselves in its rich history and folklore. I am also excited to have breakfast at Hótel Snaefellsnes, lunch at Hj á Góðu Fólki, and dinner at Arnarbær. Also, I am looking forward to visit Álfar og Tröll ehf.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about the words of Jules Verne, who set the entrance to the Earth's core in Snæfellsjökull. Perhaps, in some small way, we had journeyed to the center of our own world today, discovering the magic and wonder that lies within.