Exploring Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Friends

A Day of Sparkling Waters and Literary Inspirations

Today was a day of delightful surprises and unexpected discoveries as we continued our exploration of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From naturally carbonated mineral springs to a charming lighthouse and a monument dedicated to a literary giant, today’s itinerary was packed with unique experiences. I was especially excited to see what hidden gems this part of Iceland had in store for us, and it certainly didn't disappoint!

Our day began in Stykkishólmur, where we enjoyed breakfast at Skurinn. The cozy diner was just what we needed to start our day off right. I opted for a hearty burger, while Maximilian enjoyed the chicken wings. Astrid, of course, was happy with her pizza. It’s funny how even in Iceland, some cravings just need to be satisfied! Fueled up and ready to go, our first stop was Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring.

Driving along the southern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, we found the Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring without much trouble. The farm itself was easy to spot, with its white structures and a sign indicating the spring’s chemical properties. The name ‘Ölkelda’ translates to ‘Ale Spring,’ which seemed fitting for a naturally carbonated water source. We parked the car and walked over to the tap, eager to sample the water. The spring is located on a farm, and the water is said to have healing properties.

The water was indeed bubbly, with a distinct mineral taste. It was quite different from anything I’d ever tasted, a bit metallic, but refreshing in its own way. Astrid made a funny face, declaring it tasted like sparkling pennies, while Maximilian found it quite invigorating. I appreciated the natural carbonation and the fact that it was straight from the source. We made sure to drop some krona in the donation box as a thank you to the farmers who maintain the spring.


Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring, a historical landmark renowned for its healing waters and stunning landscapes.

  

Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the ones you least expect.

Next on our itinerary was Súgandisey Island Lighthouse in Stykkishólmur. The lighthouse is perched on a basalt island, offering stunning views across Breiðafjörður. Fortunately, the island is connected to the mainland by a road, making it easily accessible. We parked near the harbor and took the short walk up to the lighthouse.

The path was well-marked, with steps along the way, making it an easy climb. As we ascended, the panoramic views of Stykkishólmur and the surrounding islands became increasingly breathtaking. The bright red color of the lighthouse stood out beautifully against the backdrop of the sea and sky. Astrid loved running around the island, exploring the walking tracks, and watching the seabirds nesting along the cliffs.

Reaching the top, we were rewarded with a spectacular vista. The crisp sea air and the stunning scenery made it a perfect spot for taking photos and simply soaking in the tranquility. I learned that the lighthouse was originally built in 1948 and has since become a popular tourist attraction. It’s easy to see why – the views are simply mesmerizing. Maximilian, ever the history enthusiast, pointed out the rusty columns, adding character to the landscape.


Explore the breathtaking Sugandisey Island Lighthouse in Stykkishólmur, a scenic gem with stunning views and rich maritime history, perfect for nature lovers.

After spending a good hour at the lighthouse, we drove to Arnarstapi for lunch at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. This charming restaurant is known for its Icelandic cuisine, using locally sourced products. The restaurant is part of the Arnarstapi Center hotel, which also offers rooms, apartments, cottages, and a campsite.

We settled into a cozy corner with large windows offering stunning views of Mount Stapafell. I opted for the traditional Icelandic meat soup, while Maximilian chose the fish and chips. Astrid, again predictable, wanted a sweet pizza. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, happy to share insights about the local cuisine.

With our bellies full, we set out to find the Jules Verne monument, which I knew was nearby. Arnarstapi is known as the starting point for Jules Verne’s *Journey to the Centre of the Earth*, and I was eager to see the monument dedicated to the author. After a bit of searching, we found it – a signpost showing distances to major cities through the earth's core. It was a simple yet poignant tribute to Verne’s imaginative tale.

I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder, imagining Professor Lidenbrock and his nephew Axel beginning their journey from this very spot. The monument serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to transport us to different worlds. Astrid, who is just beginning to discover the magic of books, was particularly fascinated by the idea of a journey to the center of the earth.


Explore the Jules Verne Monument in Arnarstapi, a unique tribute blending literature and Iceland's stunning natural landscape.

For dinner, we decided to try Bjarnarhöfn Bistro in Stykkishólmur. This bistro is known for its fresh, local ingredients and traditional Icelandic flavors. The drive back to Stykkishólmur was scenic, with the setting sun casting a golden glow over the landscape.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Iceland at Bjarnarhöfn Bistro, where traditional cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.

Bjarnarhöfn Bistro was a delightful experience. We were greeted by friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. Maximilian and I decided to try the catch of the day, while Astrid opted for a vegetarian sandwich. The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the seasonal vegetables were perfectly prepared. It was a wonderful way to end a day of exploration, savoring the authentic tastes of Iceland.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, I reflected on the day’s adventures. From the naturally carbonated waters of Ölkelduvatn to the panoramic views from Súgandisey Island Lighthouse and the literary inspiration of the Jules Verne monument, today was a testament to the diverse and captivating beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. I'm so glad we made time to stop and explore this area of Iceland.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Hofsstadaskogur, The Torch, and Berserkjahraun. I’m eager to see what other wonders await us on this incredible journey. Until then, goodnight from Iceland!