Family Adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Fond Farewell to Snaefellsnes

As our week-long adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of contentment and a tinge of sadness. This journey with Ana and Luka has been nothing short of extraordinary, etching memories into our hearts that we will cherish for years to come. From dramatic coastlines to charming villages, and the warmth of Icelandic hospitality, Snaefellsnes has truly captivated us.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a traditional Icelandic meal were the perfect way to start our last day on the peninsula. I opted for the *Kindaborgari*, a lamb burger seasoned with Icelandic herbs. It was absolutely delicious. Luka enjoyed a smaller, adapted version of the burger, and Ana chose the soup of the day. We all agreed that it was a fantastic way to fuel up for the day's adventures. It reminded me of the hearty meals my own *Mamma* used to make back in Slovenia.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hlaðan Veitingahús, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Snæfellsnes.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse in Stykkishólmur. The walk to the lighthouse was bracing, the wind whipping around us as we made our way up the path. Luka, ever the energetic one, raced ahead, eager to reach the top. The lighthouse itself stands proudly, offering panoramic views of Stykkishólmur and the surrounding Breiðafjörður fjord. The fresh, crisp air invigorated us as we took in the breathtaking scenery. It was amazing to think that this lighthouse was once located at Grótta in Seltjarnarnes town, before being moved to Súgandisey. We took some family photos, capturing the stunning views and the joy of being together in such a remarkable place.


Experience the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere at Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, a must-visit attraction in Stykkishólmur, Iceland.

The beauty of Snaefellsnes lies not just in its landscapes, but in the moments shared and the memories created with loved ones.

Next on our itinerary was the Dagverðará River. The drive there was picturesque, with snow-dusted fields stretching out on either side of the road. The river itself was a tranquil sight, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the winter sky. We took a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the soothing sounds of the flowing water. The surrounding landscape was serene, a perfect spot for quiet contemplation. I tried to explain to Luka about the local ecosystem, pointing out different birds and plants, trying to instill in him the same appreciation for nature that I developed hiking in the Swiss Alps.


Explore the breathtaking Dagverðará River, a hidden gem of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, offering stunning landscapes and serene nature experiences.

For lunch, we stopped at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, a charming restaurant in the heart of Arnarstapi. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional Icelandic feel. Ana and I decided to try the *plokkfiskur* (fish stew), a classic Icelandic dish. Luka, of course, opted for the mashed potatoes. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The friendly staff made us feel right at home. Ana was particularly impressed when the waitress offered her bread with olive oil instead of butter when she mentioned she was vegetarian. It's these small details that make a dining experience truly memorable. It reminded me of the *gostilnas* back in Slovenia, small family-run restaurants with hearty, home-cooked meals.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa - where tradition meets breathtaking views.

Our final dinner in Snaefellsnes was at Stapinn in Arnarstapi. We reminisced about our week while enjoying a hearty meal. I had the lamb, perfectly cooked. Ana enjoyed the seafood, and Luka had fish and chips. It was the perfect way to end our adventure.


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

To cap off our last evening, we decided to visit Skipper Restaurant in Ólafsvík for a drink. The bar had a lively atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered some local beers and toasted to our incredible journey. Luka enjoyed a soda, feeling very grown-up as he sat with us, soaking in the ambiance. As we sipped our drinks, we shared our favorite moments from the trip, laughing and reminiscing about the adventures we had shared. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the flavors of Iceland at Skipper Restaurant in Stykkishólmur, where fresh seafood meets local charm in a stunning setting.

Reflecting on our time here, I realize how much this trip has meant to me, to us. It wasn't just about seeing the sights; it was about experiencing them together as a family. It was about disconnecting from our busy lives back in Zurich and reconnecting with each other and with nature. It was about showing Luka the beauty of the world and instilling in him a sense of adventure.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that a part of us will always remain here, on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The memories we've made, the landscapes we've seen, and the experiences we've shared will stay with us forever. And who knows, maybe someday we'll return, to once again explore the wonders of this magical place.

For now, it's time to say *takk fyrir* (thank you) to Snaefellsnes, and *bless* (goodbye) to Iceland. Until next time!

Tomorrow, we head back to Reykjavik for our flight back to Zurich. It will be sad to leave this beautiful country, but I know that we'll be taking a piece of it with us in our hearts.