Exploring the Natural Wonders of Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Finding Peace and Beauty in Snæfellsnes

Today was a day of quiet reflection and stunning vistas, a perfect blend of Iceland's serene landscapes and unique geological formations. From the tranquil horse farm at Lýsuhóll to the dramatic Stone Bridge and the winding roads of Snaefellsvegur, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula continued to reveal its magic. It’s amazing how each day here brings a different kind of wonder.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Hjá Góðu Fólki. The name translates to At Good People's Place, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. Aino especially loved the homemade bread, and Markus raved about the fish soup. The cafe is a small, family owned business, and the vegetables were grown in their greenhouse. It was a perfect way to start our day, fueling up for the adventures ahead. After breakfast, we packed up our camping gear and headed towards our first destination: Lýsuhóll.

Lýsuhóll is a horse farm known for its unique horse riding tours and serene environment. Having grown up in Alaska, I’ve always felt a special connection with horses. While we didn't partake in a riding tour today, we spent some time simply enjoying the presence of these beautiful animals and taking in the peaceful surroundings. The farm is nestled amidst rolling green hills, offering stunning views of the Icelandic countryside. As we strolled around, Aino was particularly fascinated by the Icelandic horses, known for their small stature and friendly demeanor. Markus, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the farm's sustainable practices and commitment to preserving the natural landscape.


Experience the best of Snæfellsbær at Lýsuhóll, where delicious cuisine meets cozy accommodations and thrilling horseback riding adventures amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet moments of connection with nature and the simple joys of shared meals and scenic drives.

Next on our itinerary was the iconic Stone Bridge near Arnarstapi. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with winding roads that offered glimpses of the dramatic coastline. As we approached Arnarstapi, the landscape transformed into a rugged expanse of basalt columns and lava formations. The Stone Bridge is a natural rock arch that extends over the sea, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. We parked the car and took a short walk along the coastal path to reach the bridge. The views were simply mesmerizing. The waves crashed against the cliffs, and the seabirds soared overhead, adding to the dramatic atmosphere. Aino was thrilled to spot a few puffins nesting on the cliffs, while Markus captured the scene with his camera, determined to get the perfect shot. I felt a sense of awe and wonder as I stood on the bridge, gazing out at the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the raw beauty and power of nature. The stone bridge is one of Iceland's most iconic natural attractions, drawing tourists from around the globe. The nearby village of Arnarstapi is steeped in folklore and history, with tales of trolls and elves adding a magical touch to your visit. I told Aino some stories I remembered from my readings of Nordic folklore, and she was absolutely captivated.


Explore the breathtaking Stone Bridge in Arnarstapi, a natural marvel that offers stunning ocean views and rich folklore.

After spending a couple of hours exploring the Stone Bridge and its surroundings, we decided to continue our journey along Snaefellsvegur, a scenic route that winds through the heart of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The road offered panoramic views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a majestic presence that dominated the skyline. As we drove along, we stopped at several viewpoints to capture the stunning vistas and soak in the natural beauty. The landscape was a tapestry of green meadows, black lava fields, and sparkling blue waters. We even saw a few waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides, adding to the picturesque scenery. I was reminded of the scenic drives I used to take with my family in Alaska. It was a nostalgic feeling, a sense of connection to my roots and the natural world.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Snæfellsvegur, a scenic gem in Iceland rich in natural beauty and folklore, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

For lunch, we stopped at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant, known for its delicious Icelandic cuisine and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel is charming, and the staff was friendly and accommodating. We enjoyed a hearty meal of traditional Icelandic dishes, including lamb stew and fresh seafood. Markus was particularly impressed by the lamb stew, declaring it the best he had ever tasted. Aino, on the other hand, was delighted with the skyr, a traditional Icelandic yogurt, which she declared her new favorite dessert. The restaurant was great, and we got the fish soup and the fish stew and both were super tasty. After lunch, we relaxed on the hotel's terrace, enjoying the panoramic views and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It was a perfect break from our adventurous day, a chance to recharge and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.


Discover breathtaking landscapes and delicious local cuisine at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant in Snæfellsbær, Iceland.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Stykkishólmur for dinner at Skurinn, a restaurant known for its delicious pizzas and burgers. It was a cozy place, and the food was comforting after a long day of exploring. Aino devoured a classic cheeseburger, while Markus and I opted for the gourmet pizza topped with local ingredients. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, which is evident in the rich flavors that tantalize the taste buds of every visitor. Skurinn's location in Stykkishólmur allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and breathtaking scenery. We took a stroll around the harbor before our meal to soak in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.


Discover Skurinn: A culinary delight in Stykkishólmur offering mouthwatering burgers, wings & pizza amid Iceland's stunning scenery.

After dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at RJÚK ANDI, a cozy bar located in front of Hotel Snaefellness. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. We sat by the window, sipping our drinks and enjoying the view of the harbor. Aino, of course, opted for a non-alcoholic beverage, while Markus and I sampled some local Icelandic beers. We chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and reflecting on the beauty and wonder of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It was a perfect way to end our day, a moment of connection and camaraderie amidst the stunning Icelandic landscape.


Discover RJÚK ANDI in Hjardharfell: a cozy coffee shop offering exceptional brews and delicious pastries amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

As I write this, nestled in our tent, the wind gently whispering outside, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared today. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Gerðuberg, Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, and the Lava Rocks Formations. I'm also looking forward to our breakfast at Arnarbær, lunch at Miðhraun - Lava Resort, and dinner at Hverinn - Restaurant & Bar. I'm also planning a stop at Bónus tomorrow to replenish our supplies. Each day here unfolds like a new chapter in a captivating story, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine. And today, we turned several pages in our Icelandic adventure, each filled with unique and unforgettable experiences.