Exploring the Wonders of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Discovery on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today was a day of raw, untamed beauty, as Hans and I ventured deeper into the heart of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. From towering basalt columns to a hidden gorge echoing with ancient tales, and finally, a soak in mineral-rich waters, every moment felt like stepping into a different world. The weather was kind, with the sun peeking through the clouds, casting a magical light on the already stunning landscapes. It was a day of exploration, connection, and pure Icelandic wonder.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa in the charming village of Arnarstapi. Fuelled up with traditional Icelandic fare, we set off to our first destination: the Gerðuberg Cliffs.

Gerðuberg Cliffs: Nature's Imposing Architecture

As we approached the cliffs, I was immediately struck by their grandeur. The Gerðuberg Cliffs are unlike anything I've ever seen; a seemingly endless row of perfectly hexagonal basalt columns rising dramatically from the earth. It felt like standing before an ancient fortress wall, meticulously crafted by giants. The columns, some reaching up to 14 meters high, were so geometrically precise that they appeared almost man-made. The cool June air carried the scent of the nearby sea, and the sound of nesting birds echoed off the stone.


Discover the stunning Gerðuberg Cliffs, with their iconic basalt columns and breathtaking views, a must-see destination on your Icelandic adventure.
We parked the car and took the short walk along the base of the cliffs. The sheer scale of the formation was breathtaking. Hans, ever the architect, was fascinated by the natural precision of the columns, pointing out the subtle variations in their shapes and sizes. I, on the other hand, was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the immensity and the intricate details of this geological wonder. It's incredible to think that these columns were formed thousands of years ago by flowing lava that cooled rapidly in contact with the sea. It reminded me of the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, but with a uniquely Icelandic twist.

Nature is not always gentle, but it is always beautiful, awe-inspiring, and deeply humbling.

After spending a good hour admiring the cliffs from below, we decided to take a short hike to the top. The path was a bit steep in places, but the panoramic views from the summit were well worth the effort. From up there, we could see the vast expanse of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula stretching out before us, with its rolling hills, lava fields, and the distant glimmer of the ocean. It was a perfect moment of connection with the Icelandic landscape.

Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge: A Journey into Icelandic Saga

Our next stop was the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a place steeped in history and folklore. After a quick and satisfying lunch at Hótel Snaefellsnes, we drove towards the gorge, the landscape becoming increasingly rugged and dramatic. The gorge is hidden within the Botnsfjall Mountain, and from the road, it appears as just a narrow crack in the rock face. But as we got closer, the sense of mystery deepened.


Explore the stunning Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge—an Icelandic gem filled with dramatic landscapes, folklore, and unforgettable hiking experiences.
The hike to the gorge entrance was relatively short, about 10-15 minutes, but the terrain was uneven, with loose rocks and a small stream to navigate. As we approached the opening, the temperature dropped noticeably, and the air grew heavy with moisture. The entrance to the gorge is narrow, and you have to clamber over some rocks to get inside. I felt a thrill of anticipation as we squeezed through the opening and stepped into a different world. The gorge is a deep, narrow crevice in the mountain, with towering cliffs on either side, covered in moss and greenery. A stream runs through the bottom of the gorge, and the only light comes from the sliver of sky above.

The name Rauðfeldsgjá translates to Red-Cloak Rift, named after a tragic event in the Saga of Bárður Snæfellsás. According to the saga, Bárður, a half-giant and guardian spirit of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, threw two brothers, Rauðfeldur and Sölvi, into the gorge after Rauðfeldur pushed Bárður's daughter onto an iceberg. The story adds an eerie layer to the already dramatic landscape.

We ventured deeper into the gorge, wading through the stream and carefully climbing over the slippery rocks. The sound of the water echoed off the cliffs, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. In some places, the gorge narrowed so much that we could touch both walls at the same time. It was an exhilarating and slightly unnerving experience, like stepping back in time and entering a secret world.

At one point, we reached a small waterfall cascading down the rocks. The water was icy cold, but we were determined to see how far we could go. With the aid of a rope, we pulled ourselves up the waterfall and continued deeper into the gorge. The path became increasingly challenging, but the sense of adventure kept us going. Eventually, we reached a point where the gorge became too narrow and the climb too difficult. We decided to turn back, feeling a sense of accomplishment and awe at the power and beauty of nature.

As we emerged from the gorge, blinking in the sunlight, I felt a profound sense of connection to the Icelandic landscape and its rich history. Rauðfeldsgjá is more than just a beautiful place; it's a place of stories, of legends, and of raw, untamed power.

Lýsuhóll: Soaking in Nature's Goodness

After our adventurous hike through the gorge, we were ready for some relaxation. We drove to Lýsuhóll, a family-run horse farm known for its unique geothermal algae bath. I had heard about the healing properties of the mineral-rich water and was eager to experience it for myself. Plus, the sunscreen I forgot was really starting to make itself known, and I was hoping the algae could help a bit.


Discover Lýsuhóll in Snæfellsbær: A perfect blend of Icelandic cuisine, cozy cottages, and breathtaking horseback riding adventures.
As we arrived at Lýsuhóll, we were greeted by the sight of rolling green fields, grazing horses, and a charming cluster of wooden buildings. The air was fresh and clean, and the atmosphere was peaceful and welcoming. We changed into our swimsuits and headed to the geothermal pool. The water was a milky green color, thanks to the high concentration of algae. It was warm and inviting, and as I stepped in, I felt my muscles instantly relax.

The Lýsuhóll pool is unique because it contains no added chemicals; the algae naturally purify the water. The algae are also said to have numerous health benefits, including soothing skin conditions, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation. Whether those claims were true or not, I certainly felt rejuvenated after a good soak.

We spent a blissful hour soaking in the warm water, surrounded by the stunning Icelandic landscape. The sun peeked through the clouds, casting a golden light on the hills and the sea. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.

Dinner at Bjargarsteinn Mathús: A Culinary Finale

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Grundarfjörður for dinner at Bjargarsteinn Mathús. I had heard wonderful things about this restaurant, and I was eager to experience its culinary delights. The restaurant is located right on the waterfront, with stunning views of the harbor and the surrounding mountains.


Discover Bjargarsteinn Mathús: A delightful dining experience showcasing local flavors amidst breathtaking views in Grundarfjörður, Iceland.
The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with wooden tables, soft lighting, and large windows overlooking the sea. We were greeted warmly by the staff and shown to our table. The menu featured a variety of local Icelandic dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients. Hans, of course, opted for the fish of the day, while I decided to try the lamb. Both dishes were exquisitely prepared and bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared throughout the day. From the towering basalt columns of Gerðuberg to the mysterious depths of Rauðfeldsgjá, and the soothing waters of Lýsuhóll, every moment had been a testament to the beauty and power of the Icelandic landscape. I am so glad that I get to experience all of this with Hans by my side. Tomorrow, we are off to Kirkjufell Mountain, Kirkjufellsfossar, and the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum! I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

After dinner, we stopped by Hjá Góðu Fólki for a nightcap. It was the perfect way to wind down after a long day of exploring. The bar was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and fellow travelers. It was a great way to connect with the community and learn more about Icelandic culture. We made plans to visit Kirkjufell knitting tomorrow, as well. I am always looking for a new knitting project, and I am excited to see what they have to offer.


Discover the charm of Hj á Góðu Fólki, where exquisite Icelandic cuisine meets artistic inspiration in a picturesque setting.
As we drove back to our accommodation, the sky was still light, thanks to the midnight sun. The landscape was bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, and I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. Iceland, you have stolen my heart.