Exploring the Wonders of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Fire and Ice on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today, Hans and I truly felt like we experienced Iceland in miniature. From hiking a volcanic crater to exploring art along the coast, and savoring delicious local meals, it was a day filled with diverse landscapes and delightful surprises. It's amazing how much this peninsula has to offer, and I'm so grateful we're taking our time to soak it all in.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús. It was a cozy start, and though I couldn't find any personal reviews, the place seemed promising. We fueled up for our hike with some hearty Icelandic fare, excited to tackle the Eldborg Crater Trailhead. I was especially glad they had vegan options, including a tofu steak which was absolutely delicious and filling!


Explore the breathtaking Eldborg Crater Trailhead in West Iceland, a hiker's paradise featuring stunning views and unique geological wonders.
The drive to Eldborg was stunning, with the landscape transforming into a vast lava field. As we approached the trailhead, the perfectly shaped Eldborg Crater stood majestically against the horizon. The hike itself was invigorating. The trail, about 6 km round trip, took us through rugged terrain, a stark reminder of Iceland's volcanic past. I was glad I had my hiking boots; they were essential for navigating the rocky path. Hans, ever the supportive husband, kept a close eye on me, especially since I still feel the lingering effects of that nasty flu I had a few weeks ago.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The climb to the top was challenging, with some steep and rocky sections, but the chains installed along the path were a lifesaver. Reaching the summit, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The crater itself was an impressive sight – a deep, circular hollow, a testament to the powerful forces that shaped this land. We spent a good while simply taking in the scenery, the vast lava fields stretching out before us, dotted with vibrant green moss. It felt like another world.

After our volcanic adventure, we drove towards Rif, a small fishing village on the northern coast of the peninsula. Our goal was to see the Sculptures of Rif, an outdoor art installation. As we drove, the landscape shifted again, from rugged lava fields to coastal plains. Rif itself was charming, with colorful houses and a sense of tranquility. The sculptures were intriguing, each piece telling a story, reflecting the history and culture of the area. I was particularly drawn to one sculpture that seemed to depict the resilience of the Icelandic people in the face of harsh conditions. I took several photos, trying to capture the essence of each piece.


Explore Iceland's Sculptures of Rif - a captivating blend of contemporary art and stunning natural beauty in an open-air gallery.
Next, we stopped at the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. It's always a good idea to gather more information about the region. The center provided us with valuable insights into the peninsula's geology, history, and wildlife. We learned more about the Snæfellsjökull glacier and its significance in Icelandic folklore. The staff were incredibly helpful, answering our questions and providing recommendations for other hidden gems in the area. I even picked up a few brochures to help plan our adventures for the next couple of days.


Explore the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula from the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center, your gateway to Iceland's natural beauty and rich culture.
Lunch was at the Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. We were both ravenous after our hike and exploration. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and offered stunning views of the coastline. Hans had the Arnarstapi burger, while I opted for the seafood soup, which was absolutely divine. We shared a delicious apple pie for dessert, the perfect way to refuel and enjoy the scenery. I'd read some mixed reviews about the service, but we found it to be friendly and efficient. The hot chocolate was also amazing, and the cakes were sinfully delicious!


Experience Icelandic flavors at Arnarstapi Center's Snjófell Restaurant amidst stunning coastal views.
In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of Icelandic sweetness at the Ísey Skyr Bar. I had heard so much about skyr, and I was eager to try it in its various forms. We stopped at the Ísey Skyr Bar, and I opted for a skyr-based smoothie, while Hans tried an acai bowl. It was a delightful and refreshing treat, perfect for a warm summer day. I was glad they had lactose-free options too. The staff was super helpful and friendly, and the atmosphere was homey.


Experience the richness of Icelandic health food at Ísey Skyr Bar, where skyr meets creativity in a deliciously nutritious way.
For dinner, we chose Stapinn in Arnarstapi. This restaurant came highly recommended for its traditional Icelandic dishes and stunning location. We were not disappointed. Hans went for the braised lamb, while I savored the fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. The warm atmosphere and friendly staff made it a perfect end to our day. I especially enjoyed the fish soup!


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula had truly captured our hearts. The diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to coastal sculptures, had left us in awe. The delicious food and friendly locals had made us feel welcome and at home. I made a mental note to buy some Icelandic wool at Prjónaklúbburinn tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Our itinerary includes a visit to Vatnasafn, the Library of Water, where we hope to immerse ourselves in the unique art installation. We're also looking forward to experiencing the natural mineral spring at Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring and exploring the historic Norwegian House. I can't wait to see what other hidden gems we'll discover.

Back at our eco-friendly guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of volcanoes, sculptures, and the endless beauty of Iceland. I am also grateful that this trip allows me to take a break from my usual job as a software developer and to reconnect with nature.

Before I close, I want to make a note about sustainable travel. As we explore these beautiful places, it's important to remember to minimize our impact. We always make sure to pack out everything we pack in, stick to marked trails, and support local businesses that prioritize sustainability. After all, it's up to all of us to protect these natural wonders for future generations.