Exploring the Natural Wonders of Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Whispers of the Peninsula

Today was a day of exploration that felt like stepping into the very heart of Icelandic lore and landscape. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula continued to unfold its secrets, offering us a blend of natural wonders and intriguing local tales. It’s amazing how much history and culture is embedded in the very stones and springs of this place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the promise of a home-cooked meal were a welcome start. Aino was particularly excited about the *ömmulummur*, little pancake-like treats served with rhubarb jam. They reminded me of the Finnish *lettuja* I often make back in Helsinki, a comforting taste of home amidst our Icelandic adventure. Markus opted for the traditional *kindaborgari*, a lamb burger seasoned with local herbs. He said it was a perfect way to fuel up for the day’s explorations. I chose the soup of the day, a creamy mushroom concoction that warmed me from the inside out, fortifying me against the cool morning air. It was a great start, and we were all set for a day of adventure.

Our first stop was Gatklettur, the famed rock arch near Arnarstapi. The walk along the coastal path was invigorating. The wind whipped at our faces, carrying the salty tang of the Atlantic. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves were a sight to behold. Gatklettur itself was magnificent, a testament to the power of nature’s artistry. Aino was fascinated by the swirling patterns in the rock, created by centuries of erosion. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love traveling with my family – seeing the world through her curious eyes. We took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this stunning location, but no image could truly do it justice. It’s one of those places you have to experience to fully appreciate.


Discover Gatklettur, a breathtaking rock arch in Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, showcasing stunning landscapes and vibrant birdlife.

The land speaks in whispers, its stories etched in stone and carried on the wind.

Next on our itinerary was Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring. The drive there was scenic, winding through the rugged landscape of the peninsula. When we arrived, the spring was unassuming, marked by a small sign and a donation box. The water, however, was anything but ordinary. It had a distinct, metallic taste, a result of the high mineral content. Markus, ever the pragmatist, likened it to liquid nickels, but I found it strangely refreshing. Aino made a face but gamely took a sip, declaring it tasted like “rusty lemonade”. I learned that the spring has been cared for by local farmers since the 18th century, and the water is believed to have healing properties. Whether that’s true or not, it felt special to partake in something so deeply connected to the land and its history.


Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ölkeldurvatn Mineral Spring, a historical landmark renowned for its healing waters and stunning landscapes.

Our final planned stop for the day was Sönghellir Cave, also known as the Song Cave. The drive up to the cave was an adventure in itself, requiring careful navigation on a gravel road. I was glad we had rented a sturdy vehicle for this trip. The cave is located near Arnarstapi, off the F570 road. The cave’s entrance was small, almost hidden, but once inside, we were greeted by a surprisingly large chamber. The acoustics were remarkable. Aino, ever the performer, couldn’t resist singing a few verses of a Finnish folk song, her voice echoing beautifully within the cave. It was magical. We also saw the centuries-old graffiti, including the names of Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson, two 18th-century travelers. It was a reminder that we were walking in the footsteps of those who came before us, exploring and documenting this extraordinary land. According to local legend, the cave once sheltered the family of Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-man, half-giant guardian spirit of the region. I could almost feel his presence as we stood there, surrounded by the echoes of the past.


Explore Sönghellir Cave, a mystical historical landmark in Iceland, where nature and folklore intertwine in stunning geological formations.

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a detour to Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður. I wanted to find a special souvenir to remind us of our time on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The shop was a treasure trove of Icelandic crafts and folklore-inspired trinkets. Aino was immediately drawn to a collection of troll figurines, each with its own unique character. I found a beautiful hand-knitted woolen scarf, perfect for the cool Icelandic evenings. The shopkeeper was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the local artists and the inspiration behind their work. It was a delightful experience, and we left with our treasures, feeling a deeper connection to the culture of this land.


Explore Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður for unique Icelandic gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your unforgettable journey.

For lunch, we stopped at Mæstro - Street food in Grundarfjörður. I had heard great things about their hot dogs, and they did not disappoint. I opted for the classic Icelandic hot dog with all the fixings, while Markus tried one with chili and pepper salt. Aino, of course, went for the simplest option, but declared it the best hot dog she had ever tasted. We sat at picnic benches under the Icelandic sun, enjoying our meal and watching the world go by. It was a simple pleasure, but one that I savored. The staff was very friendly and the hot dogs were amazing.


Discover authentic Icelandic street food at Mæstro in Grundarfjörður – a culinary gem surrounded by stunning landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Harbour Cafe in Grundarfjörður. The cafe had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with warm wooden accents and soft lighting. We started with the salmon panini, which was delicious, followed by the traditional Icelandic lamb soup. It was hearty and flavorful, a perfect end to a day of exploration. Aino enjoyed a ham and cheese croissant, while Markus opted for the fresh local fish of the day. The service was excellent, and the staff was happy to share stories about the local area. It felt like we were dining with friends. I would highly recommend the place if you visit Grundarfjörður.


Discover Icelandic flavors at Harbour Cafe in Grundarfjörður - where every meal offers stunning views and authentic tastes.

Tonight, as I sit by the campfire, the memories of the day swirling in my mind, I can’t help but feel grateful for this experience. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has a way of captivating you, drawing you into its embrace and revealing its secrets one by one. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar. I’ve heard they are breathtaking, and I can’t wait to see them for myself. I am also very excited to visit Berserkjahraun, a lava field with a fascinating history. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, and I can’t wait to share it with my family.

The Sátan Festival, a metal festival that took place in Stykkishólmur a few days ago, would have been an interesting event to attend, but perhaps not the best fit for a family trip. Similarly, the National Costume Festival, scheduled for later in June, sounds delightful, but we won’t be able to stay that long. Still, it’s good to know that there’s always something happening in Iceland, a testament to its vibrant culture and community spirit.

As I look up at the night sky, the stars twinkling above me, I feel a sense of peace and connection. Iceland has a way of doing that to you, reminding you of the beauty and wonder of the world around us. And as I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the echoes of the Song Cave, the whispers of the peninsula, and the laughter of my family, all woven together into a tapestry of memories that I will cherish forever.