Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Whispers of the Coast: Arnarstapi's Enchanting Embrace

Today, Maximilian and I delved deeper into the heart of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a place where the raw power of nature intertwines with the enchanting whispers of Icelandic folklore. Our journey took us to Arnarstapi, a small village brimming with dramatic landscapes and captivating stories. It was a day of breathtaking views, hearty meals, and a touch of mythical wonder.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere was exactly what we needed to fuel our adventures. I opted for the Icelandic meat soup, a staple I’ve quickly grown to love, while Maximilian enjoyed a classic breakfast of eggs and bacon. Sipping our coffee while overlooking the serene landscape, we felt perfectly poised for the day ahead.


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

With our bellies full, we set out to explore the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. The crisp September air invigorated us as we embarked on the short hike from the village towards the cliffs. The path was easy to navigate, and the scenery was nothing short of spectacular. The dramatic basalt columns rose majestically from the sea, sculpted over centuries by the relentless force of the North Atlantic. The waves crashed against the rocks, creating a symphony of sound that echoed through the air.


Discover the stunning vistas of Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, where rugged cliffs meet the North Atlantic, offering unforgettable views and natural beauty.

I couldn't help but marvel at the sheer artistry of nature. The hexagonal columns resembled massive organ pipes, a testament to the volcanic activity that shaped this land. Maximilian, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing every angle and detail of this geological wonderland.

Sometimes, the most profound stories are etched not in books, but in the landscapes that surround us.

As we walked along the cliff, we reached the iconic Gatklettur, or Arch Rock. This natural stone archway framed the ocean perfectly, offering a breathtaking view of the sea and the distant Snæfellsjökull volcano. It was a moment of pure awe, a reminder of the raw beauty that Iceland so generously offers. We spent a good while simply absorbing the view, feeling grateful for the chance to witness such natural splendor.

Continuing our exploration, we stumbled upon the imposing statue of Bárður Snæfellsás. This towering figure, created by Icelandic sculptor Ragnar Kjartansson, stands as a tribute to the mythical guardian of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. According to legend, Bárður was a half-human, half-troll warrior who settled in this area in the 9th century. He is said to have given the peninsula its name, Snæfellsnes, which translates to Snow Mountain Peninsula.


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

The statue itself is a sight to behold. Bárður is depicted holding a large rock, symbolizing his connection to the earth and his immense strength. Standing there, gazing up at the statue with the dramatic coastline as its backdrop, I felt a palpable sense of history and folklore. It was as if the very air around us was filled with the whispers of ancient tales.

For lunch, we decided to try Stapinn, a family-run restaurant known for its fast food offerings. We both opted for the fish and chips, a classic choice that didn't disappoint. The fish was perfectly fried, with a crispy batter and flaky, flavorful meat. The fries were equally delicious, and the tartar sauce was the perfect accompaniment. It was a satisfying and comforting meal, just what we needed to recharge after our morning of exploration.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of souvenir shopping. We popped into Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður, a charming gift shop that showcases the work of local artisans. I was immediately drawn to the intricately designed woolen products, while Maximilian admired the handcrafted jewelry. We ended up buying a few small trinkets to remind us of our time in Snæfellsnes, including a hand-knitted wool scarf for me and a piece of lava rock jewelry for Maximilian.


Discover unique Icelandic gifts and treasures at Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður. Immerse yourself in local culture and find the perfect souvenir.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hjá Góða Fólki for dinner. This charming bistro is known for its warm atmosphere and vibrant decor, showcasing local artistic handicrafts. The emphasis is on fresh ingredients sourced from local farms, promising a memorable and satisfying meal. Unfortunately, it turned out that Hjá Góða Fólki is only open on select days, and today wasn’t one of them. A valuable lesson learned: always check the opening hours in advance!


Discover Hjá Góða Fólki: A Unique Bistro Blending Icelandic Cuisine with Artistic Handicrafts in Eyja- og Miklaholtshreppur.

Plan B led us back towards our lodging, and we ended up having dinner at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant again. I decided to try the lamb chops, which were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, while Maximilian chose the fish and chips. We shared a delicious salted caramel cake for dessert, a sweet ending to a day filled with coastal wonders and mythical tales.

As we reflect on our day, I am struck by the unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that defines Arnarstapi. The dramatic cliffs, the crashing waves, the imposing statue of Bárður Snæfellsás – it all comes together to create an unforgettable experience. I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this magical place with Maximilian by my side.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Kirkjufellsfossar and Kirkjufell Mountain [Day 4 Itinerary]. I’ve seen countless photos of these iconic landmarks, and I can’t wait to witness their beauty in person. We'll start the day with breakfast at Sjávarkjallarinn, and then head out to explore. Hopefully the weather will be on our side, and we’ll be able to capture some stunning shots. We're also planning to stop by Kaffi 59 for a drink in the evening, a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and sightseeing [Day 4 Itinerary].

Until then, I’ll leave you with this thought: Sometimes, the most profound stories are etched not in books, but in the landscapes that surround us. Keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep embracing the magic of the world around you.

Good night from Iceland!

Jennifer