Exploring Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Journey Through Nature

Whispers of the Past

Today, Lena and I delved deeper into the heart of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a realm where nature and legend intertwine. It was a day of exploration, where we sought out hidden gorges and stood in awe before statues of mythical guardians. The Icelandic landscape, already breathtaking, seemed to pulse with stories waiting to be discovered.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lýsuhóll. The simple meal of Skyr and rye bread fortified us for the adventures ahead. Lýsuhóll is known for its mineral-rich waters and horse breeding, but we were eager to hit the road. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the distant sea – a perfect Icelandic morning.


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

First on our itinerary was the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge. As we approached, the narrow opening in the cliff face seemed unassuming. It was only as we ventured closer that the true scale and drama of the gorge became apparent. The path leading into it was rocky and uneven, requiring careful footing. Lena, ever the cautious one, took my hand as we navigated the slippery stones. I was glad she did, not just for the physical support, but for the shared anticipation of what lay hidden within.


Explore the stunning Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge—an Icelandic gem filled with dramatic landscapes, folklore, and unforgettable hiking experiences.

Inside the gorge, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. The temperature dropped, and the sunlight struggled to penetrate the towering walls. The sound of rushing water echoed around us, amplified by the confined space. We waded through the icy stream, the water numbing our feet despite our waterproof boots. The walls of the gorge were slick with moisture, and moss clung to every surface, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly environment. Legend has it that Rauðfeldur, a half-human, half-giant, met his end within these very walls after seeking revenge on the sons of a local farmer. The story added a palpable sense of history and mystery to the experience.

Navigating further into the gorge was challenging. We had to climb over boulders and squeeze through narrow passages, the water growing deeper with each step. At one point, I had to give Lena a boost to help her over a particularly large rock. Her laughter echoed through the gorge, a bright sound against the backdrop of the rushing water. Finally, we reached the end of the accessible path, a small waterfall cascading down the rock face. The sight was mesmerizing, the water shimmering in the dim light.

The true voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After emerging from the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, we paused to catch our breath and soak in the surrounding landscape. The views were stunning, the rugged coastline stretching out before us, dotted with small fishing villages. We took a few photographs, trying to capture the raw beauty of the scene, but no image could truly convey the feeling of being there, of experiencing the power and majesty of nature firsthand.

Our next destination was the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue, a tribute to another legendary figure from Icelandic folklore. Bárður was said to be a half-human, half-giant who settled in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and became its protector. The statue stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, a imposing figure with a stern expression. As we approached, the wind whipped around us, adding to the dramatic atmosphere.


Discover the enchanting Bárður Snæfellsás Statue in Arnarstapi, a monument that encapsulates Icelandic folklore amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Lena and I spent some time admiring the statue and reading about the legend of Bárður. He was a complex character, known for his wisdom, strength, and sometimes, his unpredictable temper. The stories of his exploits and adventures have been passed down through generations, becoming an integral part of the local culture. Standing there, gazing out at the sea, I could almost imagine Bárður himself watching over his beloved peninsula.

For lunch, we stopped at Hverinn - Restaurant & Bar in Ólafsvík. We enjoyed some hearty Icelandic lamb soup and freshly baked bread. The warm meal was a welcome respite from the cool, damp air. We chatted with some of the locals, who were friendly and eager to share their stories about the area. They told us about the best hiking trails, the hidden waterfalls, and the secret spots where you could see the Northern Lights. Their passion for their homeland was infectious, and it made me appreciate the Snaefellsnes Peninsula even more.


Experience the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Hverinn - Restaurant & Bar, a cozy spot for food lovers and travelers alike.

In the late afternoon, we decided to explore the charming town of Ólafsvík. We strolled along the harbor, watching the fishing boats come and go. The town had a relaxed, unhurried feel, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Berlin. We visited the local church, a simple but elegant building with a distinctive blue roof. Inside, the atmosphere was peaceful and serene, a perfect place for quiet reflection.

Before dinner, we stopped by Narfeyrarstofa, a cozy bar in Stykkishólmur, for a drink. We tried some local Icelandic beer, which was surprisingly good. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. We chatted with a couple from Canada who were also traveling around Iceland. They shared their experiences and recommendations, and we swapped travel stories. It was a reminder of how travel can bring people together, creating connections that transcend borders and cultures.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Narfeyrarstofa, a charming restaurant in Stykkishólmur, known for its fresh seafood and local ingredients.

For dinner, we had reservations at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of Kirkjufell mountain. We ordered the catch of the day, which was cod, and it was cooked to perfection. The flavors were delicate and subtle, a testament to the quality of the ingredients. As we ate, we watched the sun set over the mountain, painting the sky in a riot of colors. It was a truly magical moment.


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

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our experiences. We had ventured into hidden gorges, stood before mythical statues, and tasted the flavors of Iceland. But more than that, we had connected with the land and its people, immersing ourselves in the culture and history of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It was a day that I would never forget.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Gerðuberg Cliffs and Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring. I am excited to see what other wonders await us on this incredible journey. We also need to stop by Bónus to replenish our supplies – camping requires a bit of logistical planning, even in a land as enchanting as Iceland.

Back at our campsite, Lena and I sat by the fire, sipping hot chocolate and gazing up at the stars. The sky was clear and the stars were incredibly bright, a dazzling display that reminded us of the vastness and beauty of the universe. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this amazing place with my wife, to share in its wonders and create memories that would last a lifetime.

I am grateful that Lena and I get to experience this together. I am also glad that I get to share these experiences with you, my readers. I hope that my writing inspires you to travel and discover the world for yourself. Perhaps one day, you will find yourself standing in the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, listening to the whispers of the past, or gazing out at the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue, feeling the presence of a legendary guardian. Until then, keep exploring and keep dreaming.

I almost forgot the sunscreen again today! Luckily, Lena reminded me. I really need to remember to put that on the essentials list.

For now, good night from Iceland.