Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Snæfellsjökull

A Canvas of Culture and History

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of vibrant art and solemn history, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Snæfellsjökull National Park. It's amazing how much a single day can hold, and I'm excited to share the experiences with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Viðvík Restaurant in Hellissandur. Fuelled up, Hans and I set out to explore the Murals of Rif. I had heard whispers of this outdoor gallery, a community project transforming the village into a vibrant canvas, and I was eager to see it for myself.


Discover the vibrant Murals of Rif, an outdoor gallery that showcases stunning street art, reflecting the rich culture and history of the region.

As we approached Rif, the colorful murals began to emerge, adorning the walls of buildings and breathing life into the small fishing village. Each mural told a story, reflecting the town's history, traditions, and the spirit of its residents. I was particularly drawn to one depicting the legend of Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-man, half-troll protector of the region. The artistry was captivating, and it was clear that this was more than just paint on walls; it was a celebration of community and culture.

Art has the power to transform a place, to breathe life into forgotten corners, and to tell the stories of a community.

Wandering through the streets, camera in hand, I felt like I was walking through an open-air museum. The murals were diverse, ranging from depictions of marine life to abstract representations of Icelandic sagas. It was inspiring to see how the artists had incorporated local themes into their work, creating a unique and engaging experience for visitors. Hans, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the scale and technique of the artwork, while I was more drawn to the stories and emotions they conveyed.

After immersing ourselves in the art of Rif, we drove towards Djúpalónssandur beach, our next destination. Here, the atmosphere shifted dramatically as we approached the Remains of Epine GY7 Fishing Trawler. The rusting wreckage, scattered across the black pebble beach, served as a haunting reminder of the unforgiving power of the sea and the lives lost.


Explore the haunting beauty of the Remains of the Epine GY7 Fishing Trawler, a captivating relic set against Iceland's stunning natural landscape.

The Epine GY7, a Grimsby fishing trawler, met its fate on these shores in 1948. As I walked among the twisted metal fragments, I couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy. The remains of the ship, a skeleton of its former self, lay in stark contrast to the stunning natural beauty surrounding it. The waves crashed against the shore, whispering tales of hardship and survival.

Hans and I spent a quiet moment on the beach, contemplating the lives of the fourteen seamen who perished that night. It was a sobering experience, a reminder of the human cost of our reliance on the sea. The iron fragments, remnants of a bygone era, served as a poignant memorial to those who braved the elements in search of their livelihood.

For lunch, we stopped at Matarlist, a restaurant that had recently relocated to Ólafsvík. Though it wasn't in its original location in Hellissandur, I was still eager to try it, as I had heard so many good things about its authentic Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, offering a delightful array of fresh seafood and hearty lamb dishes. It was the perfect way to warm up after our visit to the beach.


Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine at Matarlist in Hellissandur—where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Kaffi 59, a cozy bar in Grundarfjörður. It was a welcome respite from the November chill, and the warm atmosphere and friendly locals made us feel right at home. I enjoyed a local Icelandic beer while Hans opted for a coffee, and we chatted about the day's adventures.


Discover the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi 59, a cozy restaurant in Grundarfjörður offering fresh local cuisine and stunning mountain views.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the natural wonders of Snæfellsjökull National Park, with visits to Minifoss and Bæjarfoss waterfalls. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Hrund, a local shop in the area.

Before heading back to our campsite, we had dinner at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant. The family-run hotel exuded warmth and hospitality, and the restaurant offered stunning views of the glacier and ocean. We savored traditional Icelandic dishes, reflecting on the day's experiences and the beauty of Snæfellsjökull.


Experience unparalleled comfort at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant amidst the stunning landscapes of Snæfellsbær, perfect for nature lovers and culinary enthusiasts.

As I reflect on today, I'm struck by the power of art and history to connect us to a place and its people. The Murals of Rif reminded me of the importance of community and creativity, while the Remains of Epine GY7 Fishing Trawler served as a humbling reminder of the forces of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. It's moments like these that make travel so enriching, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share them with you all. The campsite is calling my name now, so until tomorrow, takk fyrir!

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention! As we were leaving Kaffi 59, we bumped into a group of locals who told us about some health-promoting family events happening in Snæfellsbær throughout the winter. It sounds like there's always something going on in this vibrant community!

And for those planning a trip to Snæfellsjökull in November 2025, keep an eye out for the 180th Anniversary of Árni Thorlacius's Weather Measurements in Stykkishólmur, a significant event celebrating continuous weather observations. You might also catch the Northern Lights Festival in Stykkishólmur, a cultural event filled with music, drama, and art. There are also some educational hikes in Snæfellsjökull National Park.