Adventurous Escape to Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Beneath the Surface: Discovering Iceland's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of subterranean exploration and natural wonders as Pieter and I ventured deep into the heart of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From the depths of a lava cave to the soaring heights of a national park, we immersed ourselves in the raw beauty and geological marvels that this corner of Iceland has to offer. It was a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, a touch of adventure, and a profound appreciation for the forces that have shaped this remarkable landscape.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant. Fuelling up with traditional Icelandic fare was essential, knowing the adventures that lay ahead. The weather was kind, a gentle breeze and a sky that promised a day of exploration under the (almost) midnight sun. It's amazing to think that even in mid-June, the sun barely dips below the horizon here!

First on our itinerary was the majestic Snæfellsjökull National Park. As we drove towards the park, the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier loomed in the distance, its snow-capped peak a beacon in the landscape. The park itself is a tapestry of lava fields, dramatic coastlines, and hidden valleys. We parked the car and set off on foot, eager to explore the trails that wound through this natural wonderland.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland's iconic natural wonder and adventure haven.
The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the distant roar of the ocean. We hiked along the coastline, marveling at the basalt columns and the crashing waves that sculpted the shore. Birdsong filled the air, a symphony of life against the backdrop of the rugged landscape. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling that only nature can truly evoke.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not on the well-trodden paths, but in the hidden corners and unexpected turns of our journey.

Next, we headed to Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a place shrouded in both natural beauty and Icelandic folklore. The drive there was stunning, with views of rolling hills and distant mountains. As we approached the gorge, it appeared as a narrow crack in the mountainside, almost hidden from view. We parked the car and followed a short trail to the entrance, the anticipation building with each step.


Explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland, offering breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and an unforgettable hiking adventure.
The entrance to Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge is like stepping into another world. Towering moss-covered cliffs rise on either side, and a shallow stream runs through the narrow crevasse. Pieter and I, ever the adventurers, decided to wade into the icy water and explore deeper into the gorge. The water was shockingly cold, a stark reminder of Iceland's glacial origins. We carefully stepped on the slippery rocks, our senses heightened by the cool air and the echoing sound of the stream.

As we ventured further, the gorge became narrower and darker, the walls closing in around us. A small waterfall cascaded down the inner wall, a hidden gem visible only to those who dared to venture this far. It felt like we were discovering a secret, a place untouched by time. The saga of Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-giant guardian spirit of the peninsula, echoed in my mind as we navigated the gorge. Legend has it that Bárður, in a fit of rage, threw his nephews into this very gorge and off a nearby cliff. The stories added a layer of mystique to the already awe-inspiring location.

After drying off our feet as best we could, we were ready for our next adventure: Vatnshellir Cave. This 8,000-year-old lava tube promised a journey into the depths of Iceland's volcanic past. We drove to the cave entrance and met our guide, a knowledgeable local who shared fascinating insights into the cave's formation and geology.


Discover the enchanting Vatnshellir Cave in Snæfellsjökull National Park, a must-visit Icelandic attraction for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Donning helmets and headlamps, we descended into the darkness, following our guide into the depths of Vatnshellir Cave. The temperature dropped noticeably as we entered the cave, a welcome respite from the (relatively) warm summer air outside. The cave was formed by a volcanic eruption from a nearby crater in the Purkhólar crater family. As the lava rushed downhill, it cooled on the surface, creating a crust. When the eruption stopped, the molten lava beneath the crust drained away, leaving behind an intricate hollow tube.

Walking through the cave was like stepping back in time. The walls were adorned with unique rock formations and breathtaking colors, a testament to the powerful forces that shaped this underground world. Our guide pointed out lava stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years by mineral-rich water dripping through the cave's ceiling. The silence was broken only by the sound of our footsteps and the occasional drip of water.

The cave extends over 200 meters into the earth and plunges to a depth of around 35 meters at its deepest point. As we ventured deeper, the atmosphere became darker and cooler, adding to the sense of mystery and adventure. It was incredible to think that we were walking through a lava tube that had been formed millennia ago, a hidden world beneath our feet.

The tour lasted about 45 minutes, and as we emerged from the cave, blinking in the sunlight, we felt a sense of accomplishment and wonder. Exploring Vatnshellir Cave was an unforgettable experience, a journey into the heart of Iceland's volcanic landscape. I made a mental note to buy a travel adapter; I really missed using my phone to take better pictures inside the cave.

Before dinner, I wanted to check out Kirkjufell knitting. I had heard about their beautiful, locally made wool products and thought it would be a perfect opportunity to pick up a souvenir. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, the perfect reminder of our adventures in Snæfellsnes. I'm sure it will keep me warm on our cycling trips back in Delft!


Discover the beauty of Icelandic craftsmanship at Kirkjufell Knitting in Grundarfjörður, a must-visit clothing store for unique souvenirs.
For dinner, we headed to Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, a charming restaurant in the village of Arnarstapi. We enjoyed a delicious meal of fresh seafood, savoring the flavors of Iceland while reminiscing about the day's adventures. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we felt like we were among friends.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Samkomuhúsið in Arnarstapi – where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.
As the day drew to a close, we reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared. From the rugged beauty of Snæfellsjökull National Park to the hidden depths of Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge and Vatnshellir Cave, today had been a journey of discovery and adventure. It was a day that reminded us of the power and beauty of nature, and the importance of preserving these precious landscapes for future generations.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Lóndrangar basalt stacks, visit the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, and see the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. I am especially excited to see the basalt stacks. Pieter is looking forward to having breakfast at the FRISTA Food Truck Arnarstapi. I'm sure that tomorrow will be just as amazing as today. Good night from Snæfellsnes!