Exploring the Natural Wonders of Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Echoes of the Earth and Ancient Tales

Today was a day of diving deep into the geological and mythical heart of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From towering basalt columns to hidden gorges echoing with sagas, and the depths of a lava cave, it was an exploration of Iceland's raw beauty and captivating folklore. Markus, Aino and I set off early, eager to embrace the adventures that lay ahead.

Our first stop was the magnificent Gerðuberg Cliffs. As we approached, the sight of these perfectly formed hexagonal basalt columns rising dramatically from the earth was simply breathtaking. It felt like stumbling upon an ancient fortress, meticulously crafted by giants. The symmetry was astounding; each column a testament to the powerful volcanic activity that shaped this land millennia ago. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe, imagining the rivers of lava that once flowed here, cooling rapidly to create these unique formations.


Explore the breathtaking Gerðuberg Cliffs, home to stunning basalt columns and diverse wildlife, a true Icelandic natural wonder.

Aino was particularly fascinated, running her hands along the cool, smooth surfaces of the columns. Markus, ever the pragmatist, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, trying to capture the sheer scale and grandeur of the cliffs. We walked along the base, marveling at the way the light played across the geometric shapes, creating a mesmerizing dance of shadows. It was a perfect start to our day, a reminder of the incredible forces that have sculpted Iceland's dramatic landscapes.

The land speaks in whispers of ancient battles and the slow, steady rhythm of geological time.

Next on our itinerary was the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a place shrouded in mystery and steeped in Icelandic saga. The drive there was stunning, winding through lush green fields dotted with wildflowers, with the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier looming in the distance. As we parked and began the short hike to the gorge entrance, I could feel a sense of anticipation building. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of moss and damp earth.


Explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland, offering breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and an unforgettable hiking adventure.

The entrance to Rauðfeldsgjá is hidden, almost secretive. A narrow crevice in the mountainside, barely wide enough for two people to pass side by side. Aino was excited as we ventured inside, the temperature immediately dropping as we stepped into the cool, shadowy depths. A small stream trickled through the gorge, and we had to carefully navigate the slippery rocks, the sound of the water echoing around us.

The saga of Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-human, half-troll guardian of Snæfellsnes, seemed to come alive within those narrow walls. I imagined him watching over us, his presence woven into the very fabric of the gorge. The towering cliffs, covered in vibrant green moss, seemed to whisper tales of ancient battles and hidden secrets. We didn't venture too far inside, as the water was quite high, but even a short exploration was enough to feel the magic and mystery of this place.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips in Arnarstapi. The tiny cart in a parking lot didn't look like much, but the promise of the best fish and chips I've ever had was too enticing to pass up. We sat at the picnic benches, enjoying the view of the water and the tiny orange lighthouse on the hill behind. The fish was perfectly cooked, with a light, crispy batter and tender, flaky interior. The fries were equally delicious, seasoned with a hint of lime that made them irresistible. It was a simple meal, but the quality of the ingredients and the stunning location made it unforgettable.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips in Stykkishólmur – fresh fish served with stunning coastal views.

After lunch, we made a quick stop at Ullarselið - Wool Centre. As a librarian with a keen interest in Nordic traditions, I was eager to explore this shop dedicated to the utilization of wool and other natural Icelandic materials. The shop was a treasure trove of handmade items, from intricately knitted sweaters and hats to spun yarns and woven tapestries. I was particularly drawn to the traditional Finnish patterns, reminiscent of my own knitting projects back in Helsinki. Aino, of course, was captivated by the soft, colorful yarns, dreaming up new creations she could make. We picked up a few small souvenirs, a reminder of the craftsmanship and artistry of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.


Discover the rich tradition of Icelandic wool at Ullarselið - Wool Centre, where craftsmanship meets culture in the heart of Hvanneyri.

Our final adventure of the day took us deep beneath the earth's surface, to the Vatnshellir Cave. Formed over 8,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption, this lava tube offered a glimpse into Iceland's geological past. Descending into the cave was like entering another world. The air was cool and still, and the darkness was absolute, save for the beams of our flashlights.


Discover the enchanting Vatnshellir Cave in Snæfellsjökull National Park, a must-visit Icelandic attraction for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

The cave was full of otherworldly formations, lava stalactites hanging from the ceiling and strange rock patterns adorning the walls. Our guide shared stories of trolls and hidden people who were said to inhabit the caves in Icelandic folklore, adding another layer of mystery to the experience. At one point, he turned off all the lights, plunging us into complete darkness. It was an eerie, yet exhilarating sensation, a reminder of the power and beauty that lies hidden beneath our feet.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður. The restaurant is known for its stunning views of Kirkjufell mountain and its innovative Icelandic cuisine. The cozy and homely ambiance made us feel instantly welcome, and the friendly staff added to the warm atmosphere. I opted for the catch of the day, a perfectly cooked cod served with local vegetables, while Markus enjoyed a hearty lamb dish. Aino, ever adventurous, tried the seafood soup and declared it delicious. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and wonder.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

As we drove back to our campsite, the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I reflected on the day's adventures. Snæfellsnes had revealed its many faces to us: the geological marvel of Gerðuberg, the mythical depths of Rauðfeldsgjá, the culinary delights of Arnarstapi and Grundarfjörður, and the subterranean wonders of Vatnshellir Cave. It was a day that had deepened my appreciation for Iceland's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the Snæfellsjökull National Park, including the Saxhóll Crater and the Lóndrangar View Point. We might even stop for a drink at Narfeyrarstofa bar in Stykkishólmur. I'm excited to see what other treasures this magical peninsula holds in store for us.

For now, I'm content to curl up in my sleeping bag, the echoes of ancient tales and the whispers of the earth lulling me to sleep.