Exploring Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Journey Through Nature

A Final Icelandic Embrace

As our Snaefellsnes adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of contentment and longing. Today was about soaking in the last moments of this magical peninsula, revisiting favorite sights in my mind, and savoring the unique flavors of Iceland one last time before heading back to Berlin. Lena and I made sure to make the most of our final day, creating memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned to our routine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lýsuhóll, a cozy spot known for its traditional Icelandic fare. I always appreciate a good, solid breakfast to fuel our adventures, and today was no exception. Lena enjoyed the Skyr with fresh berries, while I opted for the rye bread with smoked salmon. It's funny how simple things like local bread can make you feel so connected to a place. We discussed our favorite moments from the trip, already feeling nostalgic for the stunning landscapes and tranquil campsites.


Discover Lýsuhóll: A cozy restaurant and cottage offering local cuisine and horseback riding amidst Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards the Seagulls viewpoint. The drive itself was a treat, with the rugged coastline on one side and the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance. The June weather was kind to us, offering clear skies and gentle breezes. As we parked the car and walked towards the viewpoint, the air was filled with the cries of seagulls, a sound that has become synonymous with our Icelandic adventure.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Seagulls Viewpoint in Ólafsvík, Iceland, where stunning coastal landscapes and abundant wildlife await every visitor.

Standing at the viewpoint, the panoramic vista was simply breathtaking. The North Atlantic Ocean stretched out before us, its deep blue waters crashing against the dramatic cliffs below. Seagulls soared effortlessly overhead, their white wings contrasting against the dark volcanic rock. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of this wild and beautiful place. Lena, ever the artist, sketched in her notebook, capturing the scene in her own unique way. I thought to myself how lucky I am to share these moments with her.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, shared in the most extraordinary places.

Next on our itinerary was the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse. Located near Stykkishólmur, this charming lighthouse stands on a basalt island, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding fjords. We drove to Stykkishólmur, a picturesque town known for its colorful houses and vibrant harbor. From the harbor, we took a short walk along the causeway that connects the island to the mainland.


Discover the stunning vistas and serene beauty of Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, a must-see scenic spot in Iceland's captivating landscape.

The walk up to the lighthouse was a bit steep, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. From the lighthouse, we could see the entire town of Stykkishólmur, with its colorful buildings clustered around the harbor. The Breiðafjörður fjord stretched out before us, dotted with countless islands and skerries. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

After soaking in the views, we decided to explore the town of Stykkishólmur. We strolled along the harbor, admiring the colorful fishing boats and the bustling activity of the docks. We stopped at a local shop, Valeria Specialty Coffee & souvenirs, where we picked up a few souvenirs to remind us of our trip. I got a bag of locally roasted coffee, while Lena found a beautiful handmade scarf. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of the places we visit.


Discover the warmth of Icelandic culture at Valeria Specialty Coffee & Souvenirs, where exceptional coffee meets unique local craftsmanship.

For lunch, we headed to Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant in Arnarstapi. This restaurant is known for its delicious Icelandic cuisine and stunning views of the coastline. We ordered the fish and chips, a classic Icelandic dish, and enjoyed our meal while gazing out at the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. The restaurant was bustling with tourists and locals alike, all enjoying the delicious food and the breathtaking scenery. Lena was particularly pleased with the vegetarian options available, noting how fresh and flavorful the vegetables were. The staff were incredibly welcoming, adding to the overall charm of the place. We even tried a slice of their famous apple pie, which was the perfect sweet ending to our midday meal.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Ólafsvík for our farewell dinner at Sjávarpakkhúsið. This charming restaurant is located by the harbor and specializes in locally sourced seafood. We had heard great things about their seafood soup, so we decided to give it a try. The soup was rich and flavorful, filled with fresh fish, mussels, and vegetables. It was the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. For our main courses, Lena ordered the grilled cod, while I opted for the pan-fried salmon. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. The restaurant itself was cozy and intimate, with old fishing photographs adorning the walls. It felt like a truly authentic Icelandic experience.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Sjávarpakkhúsið in Stykkishólmur - where fresh seafood meets local tradition.

Reflecting on our time in Snaefellsnes, I am struck by the incredible diversity of this peninsula. From volcanic craters to black sand beaches, from charming fishing villages to towering glaciers, Snaefellsnes truly offers a little bit of everything that Iceland has to offer. It's no wonder it's known as Iceland in Miniature. This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the beauty and power of nature, and the importance of taking time to disconnect from our busy lives and reconnect with the world around us.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created. Snaefellsnes has captured our hearts, and I know we will be back someday to explore more of its hidden corners. For now, it's time to say farewell to this magical peninsula and begin our journey back to Berlin. But the spirit of Iceland will stay with us, inspiring us to seek out adventure and appreciate the simple things in life.

Back at our campsite, Lena and I enjoyed a final cup of coffee, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The sky was ablaze with color, a fitting end to our Icelandic adventure. We packed our gear,整理 (zhěnglǐ - to tidy up) our belongings, and prepared for our early morning departure. As I zipped up the tent, I couldn't help but smile. This trip has been everything we hoped for and more. And as we drift off to sleep, I know that the memories of Snaefellsnes will stay with us forever.

As we conclude our Icelandic journey, I'm already thinking about our next adventure. Perhaps we'll explore the Scottish Highlands, or maybe venture into the depths of the Black Forest in Germany. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to see where our travels will take us next. Until then, danke and takk for reading!