Exploring Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Journey Through Nature

Finding Serenity in Snaefellsnes

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. From soothing geothermal waters to stark volcanic landscapes, it was a day that truly showcased Iceland's diverse offerings. It’s amazing how much this peninsula packs into one relatively small area, living up to its nickname, 'Iceland in Miniature.'

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús. We fueled up with some traditional Icelandic fare. I opted for the skyr with berries, while Lena enjoyed some rye bread with smoked salmon. It’s always a good start to the day when you can enjoy some local delicacies. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant, set in a beautifully renovated barn, made the experience even more enjoyable.

Our first stop was Landbrotalaug Hot Springs. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself. The GPS led us down a bumpy dirt road, and for a moment, I thought we might be lost. But then, nestled in the middle of nowhere, we found it – a tiny, secluded hot spring. It’s so small that it comfortably fits only two or three people. Luckily, Lena and I had it all to ourselves. The water was perfectly warm, around 38°C, and soaking in it while surrounded by the serene Icelandic landscape was incredibly relaxing. It felt like a world away from everything.


Experience the natural wonders of Landbrotalaug Hot Springs, a serene retreat in Iceland perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you never even thought to ask.

I couldn't help but reflect on how different this experience was from the more commercial hot springs like the Blue Lagoon. Here, there were no changing rooms, no fancy amenities, just pure, unadulterated nature. As a software developer, I spend so much time indoors, staring at screens. Moments like these are a welcome escape, a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

Lena, ever the photographer, was in her element, capturing the beauty of the landscape. She loves finding unique angles and playing with the light. Her passion for graphic design really shines through in her photos, and I always appreciate her artistic eye.

After our relaxing soak, we were ready for some exploration. We headed towards the lava rock formations along Snæfellsnesvegur. The landscape here is truly otherworldly. Jagged, black rocks covered in vibrant green moss stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a stark contrast to the serene hot spring we had just left, but equally captivating. The sun was shining, making the colors even more intense.


Discover the breathtaking Lava Rocks Formations, a stunning natural attraction in Iceland, showcasing unique volcanic sculptures and awe-inspiring landscapes.

We spent a couple of hours wandering through the lava fields, marveling at the unique formations. It’s incredible to think about the volcanic activity that shaped this landscape thousands of years ago. The area is part of the Berserkjahraun lava field, which has a fascinating history tied to Icelandic sagas. According to the Eyrbyggja-Saga, a farmer brought two berserkers from Sweden to clear a path through the lava field. It’s stories like these that add an extra layer of intrigue to the already stunning scenery.

For lunch, we stopped at Stapinn in Arnarstapi, a charming little restaurant with a fantastic view of the coastline. I had the fish and chips, which were excellent, and Lena enjoyed the lobster soup. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was the perfect place to refuel after our hike through the lava fields.


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to treat ourselves to a few drinks at Hjā Góðu Fólki. This quirky little bar is known for its friendly atmosphere and stunning sunset views. We sat outside, sipping on some local beers, and watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Discover the charm of Hjā Góðu Fólki, where exquisite Icelandic cuisine meets artistic inspiration in a picturesque setting.

As we drove back to our campsite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has a way of captivating you with its raw, untamed beauty. From the soothing waters of Landbrotalaug to the dramatic lava landscapes, it’s a place that truly stays with you.

Tomorrow is our last day on the peninsula, and we plan to make the most of it. We're heading to the Seagulls viewpoint and the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, before beginning our journey back to Reykjavik. We'll have breakfast at Lýsuhóll and lunch at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant, and end with dinner at Sjávarpakkhúsið. I also want to pick up a few souvenirs from Valeria Specialty Coffee & souvenirs before we leave.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

Even though I am looking forward to getting back to Berlin, I know I will miss the peace and quiet of Iceland. It’s a place that encourages you to slow down, to appreciate the simple things in life. And as much as I love technology, sometimes it’s good to disconnect and reconnect with nature.

Until tomorrow!