Solo Adventure in Iceland: Discovering Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Winter Wonders

The allure of Iceland in winter is undeniable, and today was a perfect illustration of why. Leaving behind the cozy confines of my accommodation, I set out to explore the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The crisp air nipped at my cheeks, but the promise of breathtaking landscapes kept me warm. My main goal for today was to visit and capture the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and its adjacent waterfalls, Kirkjufellsfossar.


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

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. Fuelled up with a traditional Icelandic breakfast, I was ready to face the elements and embark on my adventure. The restaurant was bustling, but the warm atmosphere and friendly staff made it a pleasant start to the day. The Nutella pizza sounded tempting, but I opted for something a bit more traditional, a hearty bowl of Icelandic skyr with berries.


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

The drive to Kirkjufell was scenic. The landscape was covered in a blanket of snow, transforming the already stunning views into a winter wonderland. The roads were clear, thankfully, and I was able to enjoy the views without any stress. I made sure to check road conditions before I left this morning, as I'd heard that roads can close quickly during snowstorms. It's definitely worth checking Umferdin before heading out!

As I approached Kirkjufell, its majestic form came into view. Even in photos, Kirkjufell looks striking, but seeing it in person, covered in snow, was an experience I won’t soon forget. The mountain's unique shape stood out against the winter sky, and I couldn't wait to capture its beauty through my lens. I was struck by how the layers of stratified rock contrasted with the white snow, creating a captivating winter landscape. I spent a good amount of time simply taking in the view before even reaching for my camera.

The beauty of Kirkjufell in winter is a reminder that even in the harshest conditions, nature's artistry prevails.

Next to Kirkjufell, I explored Kirkjufellsfossar. The waterfalls were partially frozen, adding to the fairytale scene. The pastel and intense blues of the partially frozen river were mesmerizing. I made sure to wear appropriate clothing and crampons on my shoes to navigate the snowy and icy conditions safely. There were a few other photographers around, all trying to capture the perfect shot of the mountain and waterfalls together. It was fun to share the experience with fellow photography enthusiasts.


Discover the breathtaking Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall in Iceland set against the stunning backdrop of Kirkjufell mountain, perfect for nature lovers.

After spending a couple of hours at Kirkjufell, I decided to explore the nearby town of Grundarfjörður. I popped into Kirkjufell knitting, a local shop, hoping to find a cozy souvenir. I was hoping to find some traditional Icelandic yarn, maybe something made from the wool of local sheep. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, perfect for keeping me warm during the rest of my trip. I had a nice chat with the shop owner, who told me about the local knitting traditions and the importance of wool in Icelandic culture. I learned that Skein Sisters was named a Finalist in the 2025 Australian Yarn Awards!


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

For lunch, I stopped at Hótel Snaefellsnes, known for its cozy coffee shop and charming restaurant. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the food was fresh and delicious. I enjoyed a comforting bowl of seafood soup, which warmed me from the inside out. I overheard the owner talking to some locals, and he mentioned that he bakes fresh bread and cakes at the hotel every morning. It definitely seemed like a hub for both tourists and locals alike.


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

In the late afternoon, as the light began to fade, I made my way to Hjá Góðu Fólki for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious food, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. I enjoyed a flavorful fish soup and a slice of their famous chocolate cake. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to end a day of exploring. The owner was incredibly friendly and made sure I had everything I needed. It was clear that they put a lot of love and care into their restaurant. The sunset views were unbelievable!


Discover Hjá Góðu Fólki: A Unique Bistro Blending Icelandic Cuisine with Artistic Handicrafts in Eyja- og Miklaholtshreppur.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the incredible experiences I had. From the majestic Kirkjufell Mountain to the cozy local shops and restaurants, Snaefellsnes Peninsula had truly captured my heart. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as I plan to hike the Eldborg Crater Trailhead and visit the Gerðuberg Cliffs. I might even stop by Saltkjallarinn for a drink in the evening.

Back at my accommodation, I journaled about my day, savoring the memories and the stunning images I captured. Though Hans couldn't be here, I felt connected to him through the shared experience of travel and the stories I'll bring back home. I brewed myself a cup of tea, added a splash of Brennivín, and settled in for a cozy evening, already dreaming of the adventures that await me tomorrow. I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible country and share my experiences with you all. This solo trip is turning out to be exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with nature, challenge myself, and appreciate the beauty of the world around me.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the western side of the peninsula, hiking the Eldborg Crater Trailhead and visiting the basalt columns at Gerðuberg Cliffs. I'm also hoping to find some more unique souvenirs and perhaps try some local craft beer. I'll be sure to share all the details with you in my next blog post!

For now, good night from Iceland!