Winter Wonders in Iceland: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Family

Chasing Coastal Dreams

Another day, another adventure on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula! Waking up this morning, I felt a sense of excitement bubbling inside me. It’s hard to believe this incredible journey with Mere and Sailosi is nearing its end. Each day reveals a new facet of Iceland's stunning beauty, and today promised a blend of dramatic landscapes and cozy, local experiences. As a Fijian who now calls Vancouver home, the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland continues to captivate me, reminding me of the powerful forces that shape our world.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús. It was a cozy start to a day that promised a lot of outdoor activity. The buffet had a great selection, and I made sure to load up on freshly baked bread and some traditional Icelandic fare to fuel our adventures. I always appreciate a good breakfast, especially before a day of exploring. It reminds me of the big breakfasts my mother used to make back in Navua before a day of fishing or playing rugby. It's those little comforts that make traveling with family so special.

Our first stop was Gatklettur, the legendary sea arch. As we approached, the wind was whipping fiercely, a common occurrence here, I've learned. The temperature was hovering around freezing. Bundled in our warmest gear, we set out to explore. The path to Gatklettur was a bit rocky, but manageable. Even Sailosi managed it without too many complaints. The arch itself was a sight to behold, a testament to the relentless power of the ocean. The swirling patterns on the rock were mesmerizing, and we spent a good while taking photos, trying to capture its grandeur. It was easy to see why this place is a favorite among photographers. We watched seabirds soaring and nesting in the cliffs, their calls echoing against the crashing waves. The scene was wild and beautiful, a perfect representation of Iceland's raw, untamed spirit.


Discover Gatklettur, a breathtaking rock arch in Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, showcasing stunning landscapes and vibrant birdlife.

Nature's artistry is on full display here, a reminder of the powerful forces that shape our world.

Next on our itinerary was Lóndrangar, the basalt stacks rising majestically from the coastline. Known as the “Rocky Castle,” these formations are remnants of an ancient volcanic crater, sculpted by the relentless waves of the North Atlantic. As we drove closer, the stacks loomed larger, their imposing presence dominating the horizon. We parked the car and took a short walk to get a better view. The wind was even stronger here, and we had to brace ourselves against its force. The sheer scale of Lóndrangar was breathtaking. The taller stack rises about 75 meters, and the smaller one about 61 meters. It felt like standing before ancient sentinels, guarding the coast against the ravages of time.


Discover the breathtaking Lóndrangar sea stacks in Iceland, a natural wonder on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula perfect for adventure and photography.

I shared with Sailosi the local folklore about the cliffs belonging to elves, adding a touch of magic to our visit. He was captivated by the idea of hidden creatures and ancient tales. As we walked along the rocky beach, the waves crashed against the shore, creating a symphony of sound and motion. The dramatic landscape was awe-inspiring, a powerful reminder of the volcanic forces that shaped this island. I imagined the lava flowing, the earth trembling, and the slow, patient work of erosion carving these magnificent structures. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate the incredible power and beauty of nature.

For lunch, we stopped at Hverinn Restaurant & Bar. This cozy spot in Kleppjárnsreykir offered a warm respite from the cold. The restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We opted for the soup buffet, which was a perfect choice on such a chilly day. There were three different soups to choose from, including a hearty mushroom soup made with locally picked wild mushrooms. Mere particularly enjoyed the tomato soup, made from sweet cherry tomatoes grown in their own greenhouse. Sailosi, of course, went straight for the chicken nuggets and fries. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, and we left feeling refreshed and ready for more adventures.


Discover the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Hverinn - a cozy restaurant and bar offering local flavors in a picturesque setting.

Our final stop for the day was Snorrastadir Farm Holidays. This historic, family-run farm offered a glimpse into traditional Icelandic culture. As we drove up to the farm, we were greeted by rolling green fields and cozy cabins. The setting was idyllic, a peaceful retreat away from the rugged coastline. We had booked one of the cabins with a private hot tub. After a day of braving the wind and cold, the hot tub was a welcome luxury. We soaked in the warm, geothermally heated water, watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon. The sky was ablaze with color, painting a breathtaking panorama across the landscape.


Discover the serene beauty of Iceland at Snorrastadir Farm Holidays, the perfect campground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Before dinner, we took a walk around the farm. Sailosi was thrilled to see the horses roaming freely in the fields. He spent a good while trying to get close to them, giggling as they playfully trotted away. It was a simple, joyful moment, one that I know we’ll cherish for years to come. Snorrastadir offered a sense of peace and tranquility, a chance to connect with nature and each other. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with coastal wonders and culinary delights.

For dinner, we drove to Sjávarkjallarinn, eager to sample their seafood. We shared stories and laughter over plates of beautifully prepared dishes. The atmosphere was lively, and the service was impeccable. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Sjávarpakkhúsið in Stykkishólmur - where local seafood meets traditional flavors.

As I reflect on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula continues to surprise and delight, offering a blend of dramatic landscapes and warm, local hospitality. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Eldborg Crater Trailhead, Gerðuberg Cliffs, and Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring. I’m excited to see what new adventures await us on our final day in this magical corner of Iceland. Though our time here is short, the memories we’re creating will last a lifetime. Ni sa moce (goodnight) from Iceland!

After dinner, we decided to stop by Harbour Cafe for a nightcap. The cafe was warm and inviting, and we enjoyed a quiet drink before heading back to our accommodation. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the flavors of Iceland at Harbour Cafe in Grundarfjörður, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our family adventure in Iceland. I am planning to visit the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home before we begin our journey back to Vancouver. It will be sad to leave this beautiful place, but I know we will carry the memories with us always.