Exploring Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Friends

A Day of Geological Wonders

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a day where the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland truly took my breath away. It felt like stepping into a land sculpted by giants, each location more awe-inspiring than the last. Forget the usual tourist traps; we ventured into the heart of Snæfellsnes, exploring the kind of places that make you feel like you've discovered a secret the world hasn't caught onto yet.

Our adventure began early, fueled by a hearty breakfast at Hótel Snaefellsnes. I must admit, the traditional Norwegian pastries I baked before leaving Munich didn't quite compare to the fresh Icelandic delicacies, but they certainly provided a comforting taste of home. After breakfast, we set off to Gerðuberg Cliffs.

The Gerðuberg Cliffs greeted us with an almost surreal sight. Imagine a wall of perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns, stretching as far as the eye can see. It was like nature decided to play architect, creating a fortress of stone with an almost impossible level of symmetry. Astrid was immediately captivated, running her small hands along the cool, smooth surfaces of the columns. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the geological explanation – how these formations were the result of lava flows cooling rapidly in the sea thousands of years ago. I, on the other hand, was simply lost in the sheer beauty of it all. I couldn’t help but think how these columns have stood here for ages, silent witnesses to the eons passing by. We spent a good hour wandering along the base of the cliffs, marveling at the way the light played on the stone and feeling utterly insignificant in the face of such ancient grandeur.


Explore the breathtaking Gerðuberg Cliffs, home to stunning basalt columns and diverse wildlife, a true Icelandic natural wonder.

Sometimes, the most incredible things are hidden in plain sight, waiting to be discovered.

Next on our itinerary was the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a place shrouded in mystery and steeped in local folklore. The drive there was stunning, the landscape transforming into a rugged expanse of moss-covered lava fields. As we approached the gorge, a narrow crevice in the mountainside, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation.

The hike to the gorge was short but a bit rocky. As we got closer, the sound of rushing water grew louder, hinting at the hidden wonders within. Entering the gorge was like stepping into another world. Towering cliffs, covered in vibrant green moss, rose on either side, creating a narrow, cathedral-like space. A small stream, Sleggjubeina, flowed through the gorge, and we had to carefully navigate the slippery rocks to make our way deeper inside. The saga of Bárður Snæfellsás, a half-troll, half-man guardian of Snæfellsnes, added another layer of intrigue to the experience. It's said that the gorge is named after an incident involving Bárður's nephews, adding a touch of mythical weight to the already dramatic scenery. The sunlight barely reached into the depths, casting an ethereal glow on the moss and water. It was a truly magical place, and I felt grateful to be sharing it with my friends.


Explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland, offering breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and an unforgettable hiking adventure.

After our adventurous exploration of the gorge, our stomachs started rumbling, signaling it was time for lunch. We drove to the charming town of Stykkishólmur, where we had heard tales of the legendary fish and chips at Hafnarvagninn. This wasn't just any fish and chips; it was an Icelandic culinary experience. The fish, fresh from the morning's catch, was perfectly battered and fried to a golden crisp. The chips were equally delightful, and the view of the harbor added to the overall charm. I savored every bite, feeling completely content. Even Astrid, who can be a picky eater, devoured her portion with gusto. Maximilian, predictably, started chatting with the locals, learning about the sustainable fishing practices in the area. It's moments like these, connecting with the local culture through food and conversation, that truly enrich a travel experience.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips in Stykkishólmur – fresh fish served with stunning coastal views.

Our final destination for the day was Vatnshellir Cave, an 8,000-year-old lava tube formed during a volcanic eruption. I’ve always been fascinated by caves, and the prospect of exploring one formed by molten lava was incredibly exciting. The cave is located within Snæfellsjökull National Park, adding to its mystique.

We joined a guided tour, which I highly recommend since navigating the cave alone would be quite treacherous. Descending into the cave felt like entering the earth's very core. The temperature dropped dramatically, and the darkness was absolute, save for the beams of our flashlights. The cave stretched over 200 meters, reaching depths of 35 meters below the surface. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining the geological formations and the history of the cave. We saw incredible lava stalactites and stalagmites, their shapes sculpted over millennia. The silence in the cave was profound, broken only by the occasional drip of water. It was an awe-inspiring experience, a reminder of the immense power of nature and the incredible forces that have shaped this island. Astrid was a bit apprehensive at first, but she soon warmed up to the adventure, marveling at the strange rock formations and listening intently to the guide's stories.


Discover the enchanting Vatnshellir Cave in Snæfellsjökull National Park, a must-visit Icelandic attraction for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur, a restaurant known for its local seafood and cozy atmosphere. The town itself seemed to be winding down, with a gentle quiet settling over everything. Inside Narfeyrarstofa, the ambiance was warm and inviting, a perfect haven after a day of exploration. Maximilian and I decided to indulge in some local specialties. I chose the grilled cod, while Maximilian opted for the braised lamb. The food was exquisite, each dish a testament to the freshness of Icelandic ingredients and the skill of the chefs. Astrid, with her more straightforward tastes, was thrilled with a simple but delicious plate of fish and chips. The restaurant was also hosting people at the bar, so it seemed like a good opportunity to mingle with locals and ask for any recommendations of what to do on our trip.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.

After dinner, feeling utterly content, we decided to try the bar at Narfeyrarstofa. I had a glass of local Icelandic beer, while Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, sampled a shot of Brennivín, Iceland's signature spirit. We chatted with some locals, who shared stories about the area and gave us tips for our upcoming adventures. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, a reminder of the simple joys of travel: good food, good company, and the thrill of discovery.

As I reflect on today's journey, I am struck by the sheer diversity of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From the geometric precision of Gerðuberg Cliffs to the mythical depths of Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge and the subterranean wonders of Vatnshellir Cave, each location offered a unique perspective on Iceland's geological and cultural heritage. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kirkjufell Mountain and its surrounding waterfalls. I can't wait to see what other hidden gems this remarkable peninsula has in store for us. And perhaps, just perhaps, I'll finally find that elusive power adapter I forgot to pack.