Winter Wonders in Iceland: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Family

Guardians of the Coast and Whispers of Volcanoes

Today was a day of dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views as we continued our exploration of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The raw beauty of Iceland never ceases to amaze me, and sharing these experiences with Mere and Sailosi makes it all the more special. We set out this morning with a plan to witness the towering Lóndrangar cliffs, ascend the Saxhóll crater, and visit the charming Sögandisey Island Lighthouse.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaffi 59 in Grundarfjörður. It was a cozy spot, and the strong coffee fortified us for the adventures ahead. I always appreciate a good cup of coffee, especially in this chilly December weather. It reminded me of the *kava* ceremonies back home in Fiji, where sharing a drink brings people together. After breakfast, we drove towards the western tip of the peninsula, eager to see the Lóndrangar View Point.

As we approached Lóndrangar, the landscape transformed into a dramatic coastline of basalt cliffs rising sharply from the sea. The wind was fierce, carrying with it the salty scent of the Atlantic. The cliffs themselves are remnants of an ancient volcano, sculpted by the relentless power of the ocean. It was easy to see why they're called 'Iceland in Miniature'; the geological diversity is astounding.

We parked the car and took the short walk to the viewpoint. The path was easy to follow, even with a bit of snow on the ground. As we got closer, the sheer scale of the Lóndrangar cliffs became apparent. These basalt pillars, standing tall at 75 and 61 meters, are all that remains of a volcanic crater that has been eroded by the sea over millennia. Sailosi was fascinated, asking endless questions about how they were formed. I tried my best to explain the volcanic activity and the power of erosion, but I think the visual impact of the cliffs themselves made the biggest impression.

Lóndrangar View Point is not just about the views; it's also a fantastic location for nature lovers to experience the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home.

Explore the Lóndrangar View Point, an unforgettable observation deck showcasing Iceland's dramatic basalt cliffs and stunning coastal views.
We spent a good hour at Lóndrangar, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The cliffs are home to numerous seabirds, and we watched them soaring and diving, their calls echoing in the wind. I tried to spot an Arctic fox, but no luck today. The views of the Atlantic Ocean were stunning, the waves crashing against the rugged coastline. I could see the distant outline of the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped this land.

Leaving Lóndrangar, we drove towards Saxhóll Crater, another of the peninsula's geological wonders. The drive itself was scenic, passing through lava fields covered in moss and snow. As we approached the crater, I could see the staircase leading to the summit, a testament to the accessibility of Iceland's natural wonders.

Saxhóll Crater is a volcanic cinder cone, formed about 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. A metal staircase with 384 steps leads to the top of the caldera. The climb was invigorating, and the views from the summit were well worth the effort. From the top, we had a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding landscape: the Atlantic Ocean, the Snæfellsjökull glacier, and the vast lava fields of the peninsula. Sailosi was thrilled to be standing on top of a volcano, and Mere enjoyed the panoramic views.


Explore Saxhóll Crater, a breathtaking volcanic site in Iceland that offers stunning views and a unique geological experience for all adventurers.
I found myself reflecting on the stories my grandmother used to tell me about the volcano gods back in Fiji. It’s funny how different cultures find ways to explain the same natural phenomena. Here, standing on Saxhóll, I felt a similar sense of awe and respect for the earth’s power.

After descending Saxhóll, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at Skurinn in Ólafsvík, a restaurant recommended for its local cuisine. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It’s always a pleasure to support local businesses and taste the authentic flavors of a region.

Our final stop of the day was the Sögandisey Island Lighthouse, near Stykkishólmur. This charming lighthouse sits on a small island, connected to the mainland by a short causeway. The island itself is a bird sanctuary, and we saw numerous species nesting on the cliffs. The lighthouse is small but picturesque, offering stunning views of the Breiðafjörður Bay.


Explore the breathtaking Sugandisey Island Lighthouse in Stykkishólmur, a scenic gem with stunning views and rich maritime history, perfect for nature lovers.

Saxholl Crater stands as a testament to Iceland's volcanic origins. While Iceland has numerous volcanic craters, Saxholl distinguishes itself by offering visitors relatively easy access and unparalleled views. The crater's unique geological formations and the surrounding landscapes create a captivating experience for those who venture to its rim.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Agnið streetfood for dinner. The flavors were bold and satisfying, a perfect end to a day of exploration. We even managed to pop into Narfeyrarstofa for a quick drink before heading back to our guesthouse. The cozy atmosphere was just what we needed after a day in the elements.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lýsuhóll, Selvallafoss, and the Stone Bridge. I’m also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Prjónaklúbburinn, a local yarn shop.

Today was a reminder of why we chose to come to Iceland. The raw beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the sense of adventure make it a truly special place. Sharing these experiences with my family makes it all the more meaningful. As we drove back to our guesthouse, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to explore such a unique and beautiful corner of the world. I am also reminded of the importance of cherishing these moments with family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a bit like sharing stories around the *tanoa* back in Fiji – a way to connect, to reflect, and to appreciate the bonds that tie us together.