Exploring the Mystical Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Icelandic Bliss

Today was a day of pure relaxation and exploration, perfectly blending the soothing warmth of Iceland's geothermal waters with the dramatic beauty of its coastline. It's amazing how a day can feel both incredibly slow and wonderfully full, especially when shared with Hans. I'm finding that disconnecting from the digital world and immersing myself in nature is the best way to recharge my soul.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The restaurant was very nice and cosy. I opted for the traditional Icelandic breakfast, while Hans enjoyed a more continental spread. Fuelled up, we set off for our first adventure: Landbrotalaug Hot Springs.

The drive to Landbrotalaug was scenic, with rolling hills and moss-covered lava fields stretching as far as the eye could see. As we got closer, the landscape became even more dramatic. The weather in Snaefellsnes in August is relatively cool, but tolerable. The average temperature in Snaefellsnes in August is 52°F.

Finding Landbrotalaug felt like discovering a secret. It's tucked away from the main road, requiring a short drive down a dirt track and a little walk across a marshy area. I was grateful for my hiking boots, a definite essential from my packing list! The anticipation built with each step, and soon enough, we spotted the small, stone-lined pool.

Landbrotalaug is more of a hot pot than a spring. There are actually two hot springs in the area. The larger pool has warmer water. It’s not very big, and can only fit two or three people. The water is deep, reaching to your neck.

The water was wonderfully warm, a perfect contrast to the cool Icelandic air. The pool is fed by a spring that is hot enough to scald. We found a spot away from the spring. Soaking in the geothermal waters, surrounded by the serene landscape, was incredibly relaxing. It was so quiet; the only sounds were the gentle breeze and the occasional call of a bird. I couldn't help but think how lucky we were to experience this hidden gem. I made a mental note to bring Kati here one day; she would absolutely love it.


Experience the natural wonders of Landbrotalaug Hot Springs, a serene retreat in Iceland perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

After our blissful soak, we dried off and continued our journey along the coast. Our next stop was the Seagulls viewpoint. The drive itself was a treat, with stunning views of the ocean and the rugged coastline. The Seagulls viewpoint in Ólafsvík is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers seeking Iceland's natural beauty.

As we arrived at the viewpoint, we were greeted by a flurry of activity. Hundreds of seagulls soared overhead, their calls echoing against the cliffs. The view was simply breathtaking: dramatic cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters of the Atlantic, with the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier looming in the distance. I spent ages taking photos, trying to capture the raw beauty of the scene. Hans, ever the patient one, simply sat and enjoyed the view, occasionally pointing out interesting rock formations or particularly acrobatic seagulls.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Seagulls Viewpoint in Ólafsvík, Iceland, where stunning coastal landscapes and abundant wildlife await every visitor.

For lunch, we headed to Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður. This restaurant is a must-visit when exploring the Sneaffelsnes peninsula. Bjargarsteinn Mathús offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The restaurant boasts a cozy and homely ambiance. The interior design is quirky and charming. The menu features local fish and lamb dishes, as well as vegan options.

The restaurant was bustling with activity. The server casually dropped down to my level to speak directly to my face so I could know about the food options. We started with the seafood soup, rich and flavorful, followed by the catch of the day, which was incredibly fresh and perfectly cooked. Hans, who usually prefers meat dishes, surprised me by ordering the vegan platter. He was impressed.


Discover Bjargarsteinn Mathús: A delightful dining experience showcasing local flavors amidst breathtaking views in Grundarfjörður, Iceland.

After lunch, we took a stroll through the town of Grundarfjörður. This area is a charming gift shop that showcases the unique artistry and culture of Iceland. We popped into Álfar og Tröll ehf, a charming little shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a hand-knitted wool scarf for my mother and a small troll figurine for my collection. I have always been fascinated by Icelandic folklore.


Discover unique Icelandic gifts and treasures at Álfar og Tröll ehf in Grundarfjörður. Immerse yourself in local culture and find the perfect souvenir.

For dinner, we decided to try Stapinn in Arnarstapi. Stapinn stands out as a charming café located in the picturesque Arnarstapi, Iceland. The café is celebrated for its impressive menu. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu that features a variety of dishes. One of the standout features of Stapinn is its commitment to creating an authentic Icelandic experience.

The restaurant was warm and inviting. We both opted for the fish and chips, which came highly recommended, and we weren't disappointed. The cod was fresh and flaky, and the batter was perfectly crispy. We sat by the window, watching the waves crash against the shore as we savored our meal. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Stapinn in Arnarstapi - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, the sky was ablaze with the colors of the setting sun. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula truly is a magical place, and I feel so grateful to be experiencing its beauty with Hans. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Vatnasafn and the Norwegian House. I am looking forward to see what new adventures tomorrow brings.

On a side note, I'm still kicking myself for forgetting the portable charger. My camera battery died just as we reached the Seagulls viewpoint, and I missed some amazing photo opportunities. Lesson learned!

Today has only reinforced why I love to travel. It’s not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new things, connecting with nature, and creating lasting memories with the people I love. And of course, it's about sampling the local cuisine!

The tranquility of Landbrotalaug, the breathtaking views from the Seagulls viewpoint, the delicious food, and the charming atmosphere of the local shops—it all added up to a day of pure Icelandic bliss.

As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of a quote by Helen Keller:

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.

And today, my friends, was definitely a daring adventure.

Looking forward to sharing more of my journey with you all!

Until tomorrow,
Liis