Exploring Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Journey Through Nature

Embracing the Majesty of Snæfellsnes

Today, Lena and I immersed ourselves in the raw beauty of Iceland, a journey that took us through the heart of Snæfellsjökull National Park and along the dramatic cliffs of Arnarstapi. It was a day of contrasts, from the serene views to the invigorating sea air, a testament to the untamed spirit of this land. As a software developer from Berlin, I often find myself lost in lines of code, but today, nature wrote the most beautiful program.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Snæfellsjökull National Park, a jewel of Iceland's natural heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. Fuelled by traditional Icelandic fare, we prepared ourselves for a day of exploration. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. Lena particularly enjoyed the traditional bread with Icelandic butter, while I opted for a hearty soup, perfect for the cool morning air. It was a great way to start the day, setting the tone for the adventures that lay ahead.


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

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel small yet connected to something vast and ancient.

Our first stop was the magnificent Snæfellsjökull National Park. As we drove into the park, the landscape transformed into a surreal panorama of volcanic craters and moss-covered lava fields. Snæfellsjökull glacier loomed in the distance, its icy peak glistening under the June sun. It's hard to believe that this serene landscape sits atop an active volcano, a reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped this island. The park itself is free to enter, which aligns perfectly with our budget-conscious travel style. We parked the car and decided to take a short hike to get a closer view of the glacier. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird.

As we walked, I couldn't help but think about Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth, which famously begins at Snæfellsjökull. While I knew we wouldn't be descending into the Earth's core, the thought added a layer of mystique to the experience. Lena, ever the pragmatist, reminded me that we should stick to the marked trails and avoid any actual journeys into the unknown.

We spent a good part of the morning exploring the park, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The park’s unique landscape, stretching from the seashore to the mountains, is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It’s easy to understand why this place is considered one of Iceland’s most stunning natural attractions. The combination of volcanic craters, lava tubes, and rugged coastlines makes it a paradise for geology enthusiasts like myself. It’s also a haven for wildlife, and we spotted several species of birds along our hike. I tried to capture the essence of the landscape with my camera, but no photo can truly do justice to the sheer scale and beauty of this place.

For lunch, we stopped at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, a charming restaurant in the nearby village of Arnarstapi. This place came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The restaurant had a cozy, home-like atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. Lena opted for the vegetable soup, while I decided to try the mashed fish, a local specialty. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning hike. While enjoying our meal, we chatted with some fellow travelers who were equally captivated by the beauty of Snæfellsnes. It's always interesting to hear other people's perspectives and experiences, and it adds another layer to the journey.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa - where tradition meets breathtaking views.

After lunch, we made our way to the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. The coastal walk from Arnarstapi to Hellnar is renowned for its stunning views, and it lived up to its reputation. The cliffs were dramatic, with basalt columns and volcanic rock formations creating natural bridges over the Atlantic Ocean. We strolled along the marked path, stopping frequently to take in the scenery. The waves crashed against the rocks below, creating a symphony of sound that was both calming and exhilarating. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly convey the feeling of standing on the edge of the world, with the wind in your hair and the spray of the ocean on your face.


Discover the stunning vistas of Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, where rugged cliffs meet the North Atlantic, offering unforgettable views and natural beauty.

One of the highlights of the cliff walk was Gatklettur, also known as the Hellnar Arch. This natural rock arch is a testament to the power of the ocean, which has sculpted the basalt rock over centuries. The arch frames the deep blue sea, creating a picture-perfect scene that is both dramatic and beautiful. We spent some time admiring Gatklettur, taking photos and simply enjoying the view. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, when you stumble upon something unexpected and breathtaking.

As we continued our walk, we spotted numerous bird species nesting on the cliffs. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, and we were fortunate enough to see several puffins, with the summer months being the ideal time to spot them. Lena, who has a keen interest in wildlife, was particularly thrilled by this sighting. We also saw eider ducks and various types of gulls, all adding to the vibrant ecosystem of the area.

The weather was kind to us, with temperatures hovering around 10°C (50°F), perfect for hiking. However, the wind was a constant presence, reminding us of Iceland's unpredictable climate. We were glad we had packed warm layers and waterproof jackets, as recommended in our travel guidebook. I was particularly grateful for my hiking boots, which provided excellent grip on the uneven terrain.

Before heading back, we stopped at the Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant again, this time for a drink. We sat outside, enjoying the last rays of the sun and reflecting on the day's adventures. The restaurant was bustling with activity, and the atmosphere was lively and convivial. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Hótel Snaefellsnes. The hotel restaurant is known for its fresh, local cuisine, and we were eager to try it out. The meal was delicious, and the service was impeccable. I opted for the lamb, while Lena chose the fish. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and the presentation was artful. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience unparalleled comfort at Hótel Snaefellsnes while exploring the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

As we drove back to our campsite, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The sky was ablaze with color, and the clouds were tinged with pink and orange. It was a breathtaking sight, and we stopped the car to take it all in. In that moment, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty of Iceland. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a reminder of the power and majesty of nature.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar. I’ve heard they offer some amazing photo opportunities, and I’m looking forward to capturing the beauty of these iconic landmarks. Lena is particularly excited about visiting Kirkjufell knitting, a local shop that sells handmade wool products. As we settle into our tent, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. Iceland has a way of surprising you, and I'm eager to see what adventures await us.

Today, as I reflect on our journey through Snæfellsjökull National Park and along the Arnarstapi cliffs, I am struck by the profound sense of awe and wonder that this land inspires. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, where the forces of fire and ice have created a landscape of unparalleled beauty and drama. And as we continue our adventure, I know that Iceland will continue to surprise and inspire us, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.