Exploring Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Journey Through Nature

Snaefellsnes Majesty: A Day with Kirkjufell

Today was all about chasing that quintessential Icelandic view – the one that graces postcards and travel brochures worldwide. We set out to experience the majesty of Kirkjufell Mountain and its accompanying waterfalls, determined to capture their beauty through our own lenses. It's a landscape that promises drama, serenity, and a touch of magic, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, a must-visit national park in Iceland, famed for its stunning landscapes and iconic waterfall.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður. The reviews I'd read online raved about their vegan options, and I was not disappointed. Lena opted for a traditional Icelandic breakfast, while I savored a delicious vegan platter. What made the experience even better was the view – Kirkjufell looming in the distance, framed perfectly by the restaurant's large windows. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration and photography.


Discover Bjargarsteinn Mathús: A delightful dining experience showcasing local flavors amidst breathtaking views in Grundarfjörður, Iceland.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we headed straight for Kirkjufell Mountain. As we approached, its distinctive shape dominated the horizon. I could see why it’s often called the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Its isolated position, jutting out into the sea, makes it a focal point. The mountain appeared almost symmetrical, a testament to nature's artistry. The weather was on our side, too. Though a bit breezy, the sun peeked through the clouds intermittently, casting a beautiful light across the landscape. I was glad I packed my warm layers, as the wind was a bit biting.

We parked near Kirkjufellsfossar, the waterfalls that cascade gracefully in front of Kirkjufell. The scene was even more breathtaking in person. The three-tiered waterfalls weren’t particularly tall, but they added a dynamic element to the composition, creating a sense of depth and movement. It’s easy to see why almost every visitor aims to capture the perfect shot of the mountain and waterfall together. It's a landscape photographer's dream.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall nestled in the heart of Iceland, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

I spent a good hour experimenting with different angles and settings. I wanted to capture the classic postcard view, but also find my own unique perspective. I tried using a neutral density filter to smooth out the water, creating a silky effect as it flowed over the rocks. Lena, ever the patient spouse, wandered around, occasionally offering suggestions and snapping her own photos with her phone. She has an eye for detail, noticing things I often miss in my quest for the perfect landscape shot.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its grand landscapes, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature.

After working up an appetite with all the photography, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Hjá Góðu Fólki. The name translates to At Good People's Place, and it certainly lived up to its name. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. I opted for the fish soup, which came highly recommended, and Lena had a pizza. Both were delicious and reasonably priced, a welcome surprise in Iceland.


Discover Hjá Góðu Fólki: A Unique Bistro Blending Icelandic Cuisine with Artistic Handicrafts in Eyja- og Miklaholtshreppur.

In the afternoon, we explored the walking trails around Kirkjufell. The trails offered different perspectives of the mountain, each as stunning as the last. From one side, we could see the town of Grundarfjörður nestled against the coastline, with colorful houses adding a touch of charm to the rugged landscape. From another, we could see the vast expanse of Breiðafjörður fjord, stretching out towards the horizon.

Lena and I even ventured into Kirkjufell knitting, a small shop in town. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was fascinated by the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the traditional Icelandic knitwear. I, on the other hand, was more interested in the technical aspects of the craft. It's amazing how much skill and artistry goes into creating these garments. I picked up a small, hand-knitted hat as a souvenir, a tangible reminder of our day exploring Kirkjufell.


Explore the charming Kirkjufell Knitting store in Grundarfjörður for authentic Icelandic knitted apparel and unique handcrafted gifts.

As evening approached, we decided to have dinner at Stapinn in Arnarstapi, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views. The drive there was scenic, winding along the coast and offering glimpses of hidden beaches and dramatic cliffs. We both ordered the fish and chips, a classic choice, and enjoyed our meal while watching the sunset over the ocean. The sky was awash in hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a magical glow over the landscape. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.

Looking back on today, I realize that Kirkjufell is more than just a pretty mountain. It’s a symbol of Iceland’s raw beauty, its resilience, and its ability to captivate the human spirit. It’s a place where nature reigns supreme, and where every corner offers a new perspective, a new photo opportunity, and a new reason to fall in love with this incredible country.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge and the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. I'm looking forward to more adventures and more opportunities to capture the essence of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

And maybe, just maybe, I'll finally find that power adapter I forgot to pack. It's becoming a running joke of this trip!

I heard about a metal festival called Sátan that already took place in Stykkishólmur earlier this month. I'm not a metalhead, but it sounds like it could have been quite the experience! Then there's the National Costume Festival later this month, which I'm sure would be a great way to immerse ourselves in Icelandic culture. Perhaps we can still catch some of the festivities on our way back to Reykjavik.

The midnight sun is definitely something to get used to. Even at midnight, it's still fairly bright outside, which makes it hard to fall asleep. I'm glad Lena brought her eye mask; I might have to borrow it tonight!

I'm starting to feel a real connection to this place. It's more than just a destination; it's an experience that's shaping my perspective and reminding me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. And that, perhaps, is the greatest souvenir of all.

I'm also thinking of checking out the local yarn shops. I read about a few of them online, and they seem to have a great selection of Icelandic wool. Lena might enjoy that too, with her eye for design. It's always fun to find unique souvenirs that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship.

The daylight hours in June are incredible, almost 24 hours! It's amazing how much you can pack into a day when you have so much light. It also makes it easier to explore and photograph the landscape, as you don't have to worry about running out of daylight. I'm definitely making the most of it!

One thing I've noticed is that the weather here can change in an instant. One minute it's sunny, and the next it's raining. It's important to be prepared for all kinds of conditions, even in June. I'm glad I packed my waterproof gear and warm layers. They've definitely come in handy!

I'm also starting to appreciate the slower pace of life here. People seem to be more relaxed and connected to nature. It's a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of Berlin. I'm trying to embrace this slower pace and just enjoy the moment, without worrying about the next thing on the agenda.

Overall, today was an unforgettable experience. Kirkjufell is truly a special place, and I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to witness its beauty firsthand. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!