Exploring the Wild Beauty of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Jean-Pierre

Under the Spell of Kirkjufell

Today was all about embracing the iconic beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Jean-Pierre and I set out to explore one of Iceland's most photographed locations, and let me tell you, it lived up to every expectation. The day was a delightful mix of natural wonders and charming local experiences, leaving us with hearts full of awe and a deeper appreciation for this incredible corner of the world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Harbour Cafe in Ólafsvík. It was a quaint little spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration. I had some traditional Icelandic pastries – a delightful way to start the day. Jean-Pierre opted for something savory, and we both enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and the friendly locals chatting around us. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Miarinarivo, where the sense of community is just as strong.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed towards Kirkjufell Mountain. As we approached, the mountain's distinctive shape began to dominate the horizon, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. It's one of those places you see in pictures all the time, but experiencing it in person is a completely different story. The sheer scale of the landscape is breathtaking. The mountain itself is magnificent, and I could see why it is called Church Mountain [Kirkjufell] due to its resemblance to a church.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, an iconic peak in Iceland, where nature's artistry meets adventure and tranquility.

We parked near Kirkjufellsfossar, the nearby waterfalls, and spent a good chunk of the morning simply wandering around, taking in the views. The waterfalls cascade down in gentle tiers, creating a beautiful foreground for the majestic Kirkjufell. Despite the numerous photos I’d seen, nothing truly captured the magic of the place. The water sparkled, the air was crisp, and the mountain stood tall and proud against the sky. It was quite busy, and I was happy to see other people appreciating the view.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes in Iceland.

The beauty of Kirkjufell isn't just in its visual appeal, but in the feeling of serenity and awe it inspires.

After soaking in the views at Kirkjufell, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips, a food truck in Ólafsvík. It might sound like a simple meal, but let me tell you, it was some of the best fish and chips I’ve ever had. The fish was incredibly fresh, the batter perfectly crispy, and the fries had just the right amount of salt. We sat by the harbor, enjoying our lunch while watching the boats bobbing in the water. It was a simple, satisfying meal in a beautiful setting.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hafnarvagninn-Fish & Chips in Stykkishólmur – fresh fish served with stunning coastal views.

Following lunch, we made a stop at Kirkjufell Knitting, a charming little shop in Grundarfjörður. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and unique cultural items, I was immediately drawn in. The shop was filled with beautiful hand-knitted wool products, from cozy sweaters to colorful scarves and hats. Each piece told a story of tradition and skill. I couldn't resist buying a beautiful, hand-knitted scarf as a memento of our trip. It felt good to support local artisans and take home something that truly represented Icelandic culture. Maybe I can even try to learn knitting myself, and bring a bit of Iceland back to Montreal.


Discover the beauty of Icelandic craftsmanship at Kirkjufell Knitting in Grundarfjörður, a must-visit clothing store for unique souvenirs.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner at Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur. The restaurant is known for its locally sourced and seasonal cuisine, and it did not disappoint. I opted for a fresh seafood dish, while Jean-Pierre chose a lamb specialty. Every bite was bursting with flavor, and the ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. It was almost full, but we got seated and enjoyed our meal.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Narfeyrarstofa in Stykkishólmur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how much this little corner of Iceland has to offer. The dramatic landscapes, the charming local shops, and the delicious food all came together to create a truly memorable experience. As we drove back to our accommodation, the setting sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, making everything even more magical. I am so grateful for these experiences that allow us to connect with nature and culture in such a profound way.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the peninsula, with a visit to the Saxhóll Crater and Vatnshellir Cave. I am excited to see what other wonders await us as we continue our journey through this incredible region. Also, I am looking forward to finding some local wool products at Ullarselið - Wool Centre. Until then, goodnight from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula!

Visiting Kirkjufell and the surrounding area was more than just ticking off a famous landmark; it was about immersing ourselves in the beauty and culture of Iceland. These are the kinds of days that make travel so rewarding – the kind that stay with you long after you’ve left. I hope my stories inspire you to seek out similar experiences on your own adventures, wherever they may take you.

As a side note, I am discovering that I really should have brought a travel guidebook, as I am finding out a lot of the history of the area after the visit, and during the visit. I will make sure to bring one next time. Also, my portable charger would have been really handy, as I took a lot of photos and videos today.

Until tomorrow!