Exploring the Wonders of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Icons and Intrigue

Today was a day of ticking off some major bucket-list items on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From dramatic landscapes to peculiar culinary traditions, it was an experience that truly encapsulated the spirit of Iceland. It's amazing how much variety this peninsula offers, and I'm so glad Hans and I decided to dedicate a good chunk of our trip to exploring it.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sjávarpakkhúsið in Ólafsvík. The pastries were delightful, and the coffee gave us the perfect jolt to start our adventures. Fuelled and ready, we set off to our first stop: the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, a must-visit national park in Iceland, famed for its stunning landscapes and iconic waterfall.

The Majesty of Kirkjufell

As we approached Kirkjufell, its distinctive shape dominated the horizon. It's no wonder this mountain is one of the most photographed landmarks in Iceland. The weather was kind to us, with only a few clouds dancing around the peak, adding to its mystique. We parked near Kirkjufellsfossar, the nearby waterfalls, to capture the classic shot.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall nestled in the heart of Iceland, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The scene was simply breathtaking. The waterfalls cascaded down in gentle tiers, providing the perfect foreground for the majestic Kirkjufell. I spent a good hour snapping photos from every possible angle, trying to capture the essence of this stunning landscape. Hans, ever the patient one, helped me find the best spots and even took a few photos of me in action. I was so glad I remembered to pack my camera; these are memories I want to preserve forever. There were some people setting up camping nearby, which made me think about how amazing it would be to wake up to that view every morning. The camping site looked well-equipped, and I made a mental note to consider camping on our next Icelandic adventure. It's something I know Hans would love, as he's always up for a bit of outdoor roughing it.

Knitting and Nature's Beauty

Before leaving Kirkjufell, we popped into the Kirkjufell knitting shop. As someone who enjoys a bit of knitting back in Heidelberg, I was curious to see what local crafts they had on offer. I found some beautifully crafted woolen items, perfect for keeping warm during the chilly Icelandic evenings. I picked up a skein of local yarn, thinking it would be a lovely reminder of our trip when I knit something with it back home. It's funny how a simple ball of yarn can hold so many memories of a place.


Explore the charming Kirkjufell Knitting store in Grundarfjörður for authentic Icelandic knitted apparel and unique handcrafted gifts.

A Shark Museum Adventure

Next on our itinerary was the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum. Now, this was something completely different! I had read about hákarl, the fermented shark, before coming to Iceland, and I was both intrigued and slightly apprehensive about trying it. The museum is located on a family-owned farm that has been involved in shark fishing for generations. The setting was idyllic, with rolling green fields and the ocean in the distance.


Explore the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, a unique Icelandic attraction dedicated to the fascinating world of sharks and their significance in maritime culture.

We joined a guided tour where we learned about the process of fermenting the Greenland shark. It's quite a fascinating (and somewhat gruesome) process, involving burying the shark meat for several weeks to drain out the toxins before hanging it to dry for several more months. Our guide explained the history and biology of the Greenland shark in a way that was both informative and entertaining. I found it particularly interesting that the family no longer actively fishes for sharks but only uses bycatch, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are the ones that challenge your senses and push you outside your comfort zone.

Of course, the highlight of the visit was the tasting. Hans and I both took a small piece of the hákarl. The smell was… intense. The taste was even more so – a strong, ammonia-rich flavor that lingered long after we swallowed. I won't lie; it was definitely an acquired taste! Hans, being the adventurous foodie he is, seemed to enjoy it more than I did. I managed to eat my piece, but I don't think I'll be adding hákarl to my regular diet anytime soon. Still, I'm glad I tried it. It's all part of experiencing the local culture, right?

Lunch with a View

After the shark museum, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at Hótel Snaefellsnes, where we enjoyed a delicious meal with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel had a cozy, cottage-like feel, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I had the fish soup, which was rich and flavorful, while Hans opted for a traditional Icelandic lamb dish. We both agreed that it was one of the best meals we've had so far on our trip.


Experience unparalleled comfort at Hótel Snaefellsnes while exploring the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Dinner at Arnarstapi

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Arnarstapi, a charming village known for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations. We had dinner at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant, which came highly recommended. The restaurant had a lovely atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of local specialties. I decided to try the seafood soup, while Hans went for the Arnarstapi burger. The food was excellent, and the service was friendly and efficient. We even indulged in some salted caramel cake for dessert, which was sinfully delicious.


Experience Icelandic flavors at Arnarstapi Center's Snjófell Restaurant amidst stunning coastal views.

After dinner, we took a stroll along the cliffs, admiring the stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. The basalt columns and natural rock formations were truly awe-inspiring, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore was incredibly soothing. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Tomorrow's Adventures Await

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Our itinerary includes the Dagverðará River, the Seagulls viewpoint, and the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. I'm also looking forward to trying out Saltkjallarinn, a local bar, for a taste of Icelandic nightlife. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

As I sit here writing this, reflecting on the day's adventures, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country. Iceland is truly a land of contrasts, where dramatic landscapes meet quirky traditions and where every corner holds a new surprise. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

We are staying in the Hotel Snaefellsnes, which is a fantastic place. I would recommend this hotel to anyone coming to this area. We felt very welcomed by the staff, and the building has a lot of character.

I'm also glad I packed my hiking boots and waterproof jacket, as they've been essential for exploring the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. However, I did forget to bring sunscreen and a portable phone charger, which I definitely regret. The Icelandic sun can be surprisingly strong, and my phone battery is constantly running low from taking so many photos. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

Overall, today was an incredible experience that I'll cherish forever. From the iconic Kirkjufell to the intriguing Shark Museum, every moment was filled with wonder and adventure. I'm so grateful to be sharing this journey with Hans, and I can't wait to see what other surprises Iceland has in store for us.