Adventurous Escape to Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Serenity and Reflection

As our Icelandic adventure on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of contentment and a touch of melancholy. Today was about soaking in the last moments of this magical landscape, a day of quiet exploration and heartfelt reflection. Pieter and I set out early, eager to make the most of our final hours in this 'miniature Iceland'.

Our first stop was Lýsuhóll, a place I had read about that's known for its unique mineral-rich waters and horse riding tours. While we didn't partake in the riding, we did take a leisurely stroll around the area, breathing in the fresh Icelandic air. The landscape was so peaceful, with rolling green hills and the distant sound of the ocean. I imagined galloping through those fields on horseback, feeling the wind in my hair – perhaps a reason to return someday! I learned that Lýsuhóll is also known for its connection to Icelandic folklore, which added another layer of intrigue to the visit. Apparently, the area is steeped in tales of elves and hidden people, reminding me of the deep connection Icelanders have with their land and its mystical stories.


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

Next, we ventured towards Bæjarfoss, a waterfall nestled behind the charming town of Ólafsvík. The drive there was picturesque, with the road winding along the coastline, offering stunning views of the sea. As we approached Ólafsvík, I could see the waterfall cascading down the hillside. It was easily accessible from the town, a short walk leading us right to its base. The power and beauty of Bæjarfoss were captivating. The water tumbled down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's force. I took several photos, trying to capture its essence, but as always, the reality was far more impressive than any image could convey. Pieter and I spent some time simply watching the water, listening to its soothing sound, and feeling the cool mist on our faces. It was a perfect moment of tranquility, a reminder of the simple joys of being in nature. Bæjarfoss, also known as Town Falls, is a charming waterfall located behind the small fishing town of Ólafsvík in Iceland.


Discover the serene beauty of Bæjarfoss, a captivating waterfall in Iceland's Western Region, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The journey may be ending, but the memories and lessons learned will last a lifetime.

Our final destination for the day was Álftafjörður, a serene fjord known for its rich birdlife. As we drove along the Ring Road, we were treated to breathtaking views of the fjord, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. Álftafjörður is a haven for birdwatchers, and although I'm no expert, I couldn't help but be captivated by the variety of birds in the area. I spotted several Whooper Swans, gracefully gliding across the water. The fjord was so peaceful, a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was a perfect place to reflect on our Icelandic adventure, to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this unique landscape.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Álfatjördur, a scenic spot in Iceland that offers stunning landscapes, tranquility, and unforgettable photo opportunities.

Before heading back to Reykjavik, we stopped at Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður, a delightful gift shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs. I wanted to find something special to remember our trip by, and this shop was a treasure trove of unique items. I ended up buying a beautiful handmade wool scarf, its intricate design reflecting the Icelandic landscape. As we browsed through the shop, the friendly staff shared stories about the crafts and the artists who created them, adding a personal touch to the experience.


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

For breakfast, we enjoyed a hearty meal at Hlaðan Veitingahús. I opted for the vegan tartare, which was surprisingly delicious, and Pieter had a traditional Icelandic dish. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling us for our final adventures on the peninsula.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hlaðan Veitingahús in Snæfellsnes, where breathtaking views meet delicious home-cooked meals.

For lunch, we stopped at Skurinn in Stykkishólmur, a vibrant restaurant known for its hamburgers and pizzas. I decided to try their signature hamburger, while Pieter went for the spicy chicken wings. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. It was a great place to relax and recharge before continuing our journey.


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

Finally, for our farewell dinner, we chose Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur, a charming restaurant with stunning views of the harbor. The restaurant had a cozy and romantic atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I ordered the pan-fried scallops with quinoa, while Pieter chose the fillet of cod. The food was exquisite, a perfect ending to our culinary adventures in Snæfellsnes.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From the dramatic landscapes to the charming villages, from the delicious food to the friendly people, this trip has been nothing short of magical. I've learned so much about Iceland's natural beauty, its rich culture, and its commitment to sustainability. I've also learned a lot about myself, about my love for adventure, my appreciation for nature, and my desire to live a more sustainable life.

This trip has reinforced my commitment to eco-friendly travel. I'm more determined than ever to minimize my environmental impact and to support local communities whenever I travel. I believe that travel can be a force for good, that it can help us to connect with different cultures, to appreciate the beauty of our planet, and to inspire us to create a more sustainable world.

As we prepare to leave Snæfellsnes tomorrow and head back to Amsterdam, I know that a part of me will always remain here, in this magical land of fire and ice. The memories we've made, the lessons we've learned, and the friendships we've forged will stay with us forever. And who knows, maybe someday we'll return to this beautiful peninsula, to explore its hidden gems and to reconnect with its enchanting spirit. We will miss the Northern Lights, the countless waterfalls, the glaciers, and the volcanos. But most of all, we will miss the serenity and peace that we found here, in the heart of Iceland.

Until then, takk fyrir, Snæfellsnes. Thank you for the adventure.

Before I sign off, I wanted to share a little anecdote from our trip. As you know, I am trying to improve my Dutch, and Pieter is always so patient with my attempts. One evening, while we were stargazing, I tried to describe the beauty of the night sky in Dutch. I stumbled over the words, mixing up 'sterren' (stars) with 'stieren' (bulls). Pieter, ever the kind soul, gently corrected me, but not before we both had a good laugh. It's moments like these, filled with humor and connection, that make travel so special. They remind me that it's not just about seeing new places, but about sharing experiences and creating memories with the people you love. So, here's to more adventures, more laughter, and more attempts to speak Dutch!

As our Icelandic journey concludes, I'm left with a profound sense of gratitude and inspiration. This trip has not only allowed me to witness the breathtaking beauty of Snæfellsnes but has also deepened my commitment to sustainable living. The memories created, the lessons learned, and the connections forged will undoubtedly shape my future travels and my approach to life. Snæfellsnes, with its magical landscapes and enchanting spirit, will forever hold a special place in my heart. Until we meet again, Iceland, may your natural wonders continue to inspire and captivate all who visit. And to my readers, thank you for joining me on this incredible adventure. Stay tuned for more stories from around the world, as I continue my quest to explore and share the beauty of our planet, one sustainable step at a time.