Winter Wonders in Iceland: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Family

Hidden Gems and Cozy Corners

Today was a day of unexpected discoveries and heartwarming moments on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It's funny how sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan, the little detours that lead to something truly special. The crisp Icelandic air and the promise of adventure fueled our family as we set out to explore.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant. It's a cozy spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration. The spread was impressive, with everything from traditional Icelandic skyr to freshly baked bread. Sailosi, of course, made a beeline for the pastries, while Mere and I enjoyed some strong coffee to shake off the last vestiges of sleep.

First on our itinerary was Lýsuhóll, a place I was particularly excited about. It's a family-run horse farm that also offers cottages and a restaurant. While we didn't have time for a horseback riding tour this time, we did take a walk around the area, soaking in the stunning views of the beach and lava fields. I could just imagine galloping along the black sand on one of those sturdy Icelandic horses! Maybe next time, eh?


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

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones you stumble upon, the detours that lead you to unexpected beauty and connection.

Next, we ventured towards Selvallafoss, a waterfall that's a bit of a hidden gem. It's not visible from the road, so you have to take a short hike to reach it. The walk itself was lovely, even in the December chill. The landscape was blanketed in a light dusting of snow, adding a touch of magic to the scenery. As we approached the falls, the sound of rushing water grew louder, and then, there it was – Selvallafoss, cascading down the moss-covered rocks. It wasn't as massive as some of the other waterfalls we've seen, but it had a certain charm, a peacefulness that was truly captivating. No wonder it's called the Sheep's Waterfall! I didn't spot any sheep, though. The falls feature several cascades, with the highest part being around 11 meters tall. The name Selvallafoss comes from the nearby Selvallavatn lake, whose waters flow into the falls. The water was so clear and clean, it was tempting to take a sip, but I resisted the urge.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Selvallafoss Waterfall, an enchanting Icelandic natural wonder that captivates every visitor.

For lunch, we stopped at Mæstro - Street food in Grundarfjörður. This place is known for its Icelandic hot dogs, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! I opted for the classic lamb hot dog with all the fixings, while Mere tried one with jalapenos and cheese. Sailosi, predictably, just wanted a plain one. We sat outside, enjoying our lunch while taking in the views of the harbor. It was a simple meal, but it was delicious and satisfying. The staff was super friendly and the atmosphere was great.


Discover authentic Icelandic street food at Mæstro in Grundarfjörður – a culinary gem surrounded by stunning landscapes.

After lunch, we made our way to the Stone Bridge near Arnarstapi. The drive there was stunning, with the rugged coastline stretching out before us. The Stone Bridge is a natural arch formation that spans part of the cliff. It's a popular spot for tourists and photographers, and it's easy to see why. The views are simply breathtaking. We walked along the coastal trail, taking in the dramatic scenery and the crashing waves. Sailosi was fascinated by the rock formations, and he spent a good half hour climbing around on them. The Stone Bridge is located near the coastal village of Arnarstapi. The walk to the Stone Bridge takes you along scenic coastal paths, offering views of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.


Explore the breathtaking Stone Bridge in Arnarstapi, a natural marvel that offers stunning ocean views and rich folklore.

Our final stop for the day was Prjónaklúbburinn, a yarn shop I had read about. As someone who enjoys knitting in my spare time, I was eager to check it out. The shop was a treasure trove of Icelandic wool, with skeins of every color imaginable. The owner, Ólöf Inga Stefánsdóttir, was incredibly helpful, offering advice and sharing her knowledge of Icelandic knitting traditions. I ended up buying a few skeins of lopi yarn, perfect for a cozy winter sweater. I even picked up a small knitting kit for Mere, hoping to spark a new hobby for her. It was established in 2019. The shop offers a good selection of yarn and good service. Prjónaklúbburinn strives to be as sustainable as possible and sell products from companies that emphasize sustainability.


Explore the warmth of Icelandic craftsmanship at Prjónaklúbburinn, Stykkishólmur's premier knitting destination.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at Stapinn in Arnarstapi. This family-run restaurant is known for its delicious Icelandic cuisine and its stunning coastal views. I opted for the lamb shank, while Mere chose the fish of the day. Sailosi, of course, went for the burger. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where delicious food meets breathtaking coastal views.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. We had discovered hidden waterfalls, explored rugged coastlines, and connected with the local culture. It was a day of simple pleasures and unexpected joys, the kind of day that makes traveling with family so special. Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring, Berserkjahraun, and the Jules Verne monument. I'm excited to see what adventures await us!

Tonight, as I sit here writing, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has a way of capturing your heart, of making you feel connected to something bigger than yourself. It's a place of raw beauty and quiet charm, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and simply be present in the moment. And that, my friends, is a gift worth cherishing.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula in December is cold and windy. You can expect rain as well. The temperature will dance around 0°C (32°F).