Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Snæfellsjökull

Whispers of Water and Wind

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a symphony of soft whispers carried on the Icelandic wind. It was about savoring the small moments, the quiet beauty that often gets overlooked in the rush to see the grand landmarks. Snæfellsjökull continued to cast its spell, not with dramatic pronouncements, but with subtle enchantments that unfolded at every turn.

Our morning began, as most do on a camping trip, with the simple pleasure of brewing coffee. The warmth of the cup was a welcome contrast to the crisp air, and the aroma mingled with the earthy scent of the surrounding landscape. After packing up our tent, Hans and I were ready to start our day with a hearty breakfast at Arnarbær.


Discover culinary delights at Arnarbær in beautiful Arnarstapi, where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.

However, upon reaching Arnarbær, we discovered it was closed, as it is only open during the high season, May to September. Disappointed but undeterred, we decided to have a quick breakfast at our camp site and head to Ólafsvík for a proper meal. As a cooking instructor, I always find myself drawn to local eateries, eager to discover new flavors and culinary techniques. I was keen to sample some authentic Icelandic cuisine, and Ólafsvík seemed like the perfect place to start. So we headed to Stapinn for breakfast.


Discover Stapinn: where traditional Icelandic flavors meet stunning coastal views in Arnarstapi.

Stapinn was a delightful family-run restaurant. I opted for the traditional Icelandic breakfast of skyr with berries and a drizzle of honey. Hans, ever the meat enthusiast, chose the hearty breakfast plate with eggs, bacon, and local sausage. As we ate, we chatted with the friendly staff, learning about the history of the restaurant and their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. It's always heartening to see businesses that support their community and celebrate the unique flavors of their region. Fueled and ready for the day, we set off to explore the waterfalls near Ólafsvík.

Our first stop was Minifoss. The walk to Minifoss was a gentle stroll through a landscape that felt both familiar and otherworldly. The path wound its way through fields of volcanic rock, softened by a carpet of moss and hardy grasses. The air was alive with the sound of rushing water, growing louder with each step. The waterfall itself was a delicate cascade, a silver ribbon against the dark stone. It wasn't the most imposing waterfall I've ever seen, but it possessed a quiet charm, a sense of serene beauty that invited contemplation. We spent some time simply sitting by the water's edge, listening to its soothing melody and letting the cool spray mist our faces. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated peace.


Discover the stunning hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes of Minifoss in Ólafsvík, Iceland, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in conquering mountains, but in surrendering to the simple beauty of the present moment.

Next on our list was Bæjarfoss, the town waterfall of Ólafsvík. Bæjarfoss is easily accessible from the town, a short walk from the church. The path meandered through a grassy field, offering panoramic views of the town and the Breiðafjörður bay. The waterfall itself was a graceful cascade, tumbling down a rocky cliff face into a pool below. It was a picturesque scene, framed by the charming houses of Ólafsvík and the vast expanse of the ocean. We took some photos, capturing the beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. Bæjarfoss was a testament to the fact that you don't have to venture far off the beaten path to discover hidden gems. As we stood there, admiring the view, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the simple joys of life, the beauty of nature, and the warmth of human connection.


Explore the stunning Bæjarfoss Waterfall, a magnificent Icelandic natural wonder surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails.

After our waterfall adventures, we decided to explore the town of Ólafsvík itself. We strolled along the harbor, watching the fishing boats bobbing gently in the water. The air was filled with the salty tang of the sea and the cries of seagulls overhead. We popped into Hrund, a local shop, hoping to find a unique souvenir to remind us of our time in Snæfellsjökull. Hrund was a treasure trove of handcrafted items, local arts, and souvenirs that embodied the rich culture and heritage of Iceland. I was immediately drawn to a collection of hand-knitted wool sweaters, each one unique in its design and color. I ended up buying a beautiful blue sweater with a traditional Icelandic pattern for Lena. I knew she would love it, a cozy reminder of our adventures in this magical land.


Explore Hrund Gift Shop in Ólafsvík for unique Icelandic crafts, souvenirs, and local treasures that capture the spirit of Iceland.

For dinner, we had reservations at Sker Restaurant in Ólafsvík. Sker Restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and amazing views. The menu features a variety of dishes made with the best local ingredients. I decided to try the pan-seared cod fillet, while Hans opted for the hearty lamb dish. Both were cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and showcasing the best of Icelandic cuisine. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. As we savored our meal, we watched the sun set over the harbor, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a truly magical moment, a perfect ending to a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Sker Restaurant in Ólafsvík - fresh seafood and local flavors await.

As we drove back to our campsite, the northern lights began to dance across the sky. Streaks of green and purple shimmered and swirled, creating a breathtaking spectacle. We pulled over to the side of the road, turned off the engine, and simply watched in awe. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the incredible beauty and power of nature. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this wonder, to share it with Hans, and to capture it in my memory forever. We sat there for hours, until the cold finally drove us back to the warmth of our tent.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Lýsuhóll and Keflavíkurvör. I’m particularly excited about Lýsuhóll, known for its mineral-rich waters and purported healing properties. After a day of hiking, a soak in those waters sounds like the perfect way to rejuvenate. And of course, I'm looking forward to sharing all of these experiences with you, my readers, in the next blog post. Until then, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and discovery.

As I drifted off to sleep, I thought about the day's adventures. It hadn't been about ticking off a list of must-see attractions, but about immersing ourselves in the rhythm of Icelandic life, connecting with nature, and savoring the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and breathtaking scenery. And in the end, those are the moments that truly matter, the ones that stay with you long after the journey is over. Goodnight from Snæfellsjökull.