Winter Wonders in Iceland: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Family

Embracing the Winter Charm of Snæfellsnes

After a long journey from Vancouver, we finally touched down in Iceland, ready to begin our family adventure on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The air was crisp, carrying a hint of snow, and the landscape was a stunning blend of black lava fields and snow-dusted mountains. I could already tell this trip would be one for the books.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a must-visit destination showcasing Iceland's natural wonders.

Our first day was all about soaking in the scenery and getting a taste of local life. After picking up our rental car, we set off towards the peninsula, eager to see what Iceland in miniature had to offer. The drive itself was breathtaking, with the winter light casting long shadows across the rugged terrain. I must admit, forgetting extra memory cards for the camera was a bit of a rookie mistake, but I’ll make sure to document everything, even if it means being a bit more selective with my shots.

Our first stop was the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar waterfalls. Even in the December chill, the area was easily accessible. The road around the peninsula and the carpark were clear, making it easy to get close to the attractions. As we approached, the mountain's unique shape, resembling a church steeple, stood out against the sky. The waterfalls, though partially frozen, added to the fairytale-like scene.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, an iconic peak in Iceland, where nature's artistry meets adventure and tranquility.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes in Iceland.

Sailosi was immediately captivated, scrambling over the snowy rocks to get a better view. Mere, ever the practical one, reminded him to be careful of the icy patches. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride seeing my family embrace the Icelandic landscape with such enthusiasm. I managed to capture a few good shots of the waterfalls with Kirkjufell in the background. I can see why this is one of the most photographed spots in Iceland. The combination of mountain and falls is simply stunning, even in the subdued winter light.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel connected to something larger than yourself.

For breakfast, we stopped at Hlaðan Veitingahús, a cozy restaurant that came highly recommended. It was a welcome respite from the cold, and the hearty Icelandic breakfast warmed us from the inside out. The restaurant itself had a lovely atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I tried some local fish and Skyr, which gave me a real taste of Icelandic cuisine. It was the perfect way to start our day of exploration.


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

Lunch was at Skipper Restaurant in Ólafsvík, a charming spot with a family-run feel. We enjoyed some delicious seafood chowder and fish and chips, a comforting meal after our chilly morning at Kirkjufell. The restaurant was cozy and warm, and the staff were friendly and accommodating. It was great to experience the local hospitality.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Skipper Restaurant in Stykkishólmur, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy setting.

After lunch, we decided to immerse ourselves in local culture with a visit to Kirkjufell Knitting. Mere, who loves knitting, was particularly excited. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted wool products, from colorful Icelandic sweaters to cozy scarves and hats. The intricate patterns and designs reflected the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. We ended up buying a few hand-knitted items as souvenirs, each piece a reminder of our time in Snæfellsnes. The shop owner was incredibly friendly, sharing insights into the knitting techniques and the significance of each design. It was more than just a shopping trip; it was an opportunity to connect with Icelandic culture and artistry.


Discover the beauty of Icelandic craftsmanship at Kirkjufell Knitting in Grundarfjörður, a must-visit clothing store for unique souvenirs.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur for dinner. This restaurant is known for its local food menu, including fresh fish and lamb. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was absolutely delicious. I tried the grilled lamb, and it was cooked to perfection. Mere had the seafood spaghetti, which she raved about. We even treated ourselves to some traditional Icelandic desserts.


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

Reflecting on our first day, I’m struck by the warmth and charm of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Despite the winter chill, the people have been incredibly welcoming, and the landscapes are simply breathtaking. It’s easy to see why this region is called Iceland in Miniature – it truly offers a bit of everything that makes this country so special.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Snæfellsjökull National Park, venture into the Vatnshellir Cave, and visit the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. I’m also hoping we can stop by the Ísey Skyr Bar for a taste of local flavors. I’m excited to see what other adventures await us on this incredible family trip.

As I write this, huddled in our cozy guesthouse, I can’t help but feel grateful for this experience. Even though I forgot the portable phone charger, the day has been a success. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has already captured our hearts, and I can’t wait to share more of our journey with you.

Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel: good food, stunning scenery, and quality time with family. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. And who knows, maybe we’ll even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights tonight! Fingers crossed!

Until tomorrow,
Jone