Family Adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Winter's Tale Begins

After months of planning, our family adventure to Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula has finally begun! The crisp winter air and stunning landscapes have already exceeded our expectations. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of this region, and I'm excited to share our experiences with you.



Our day started with a hearty breakfast at the Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The restaurant was warm and inviting, a welcome respite from the January chill. We fueled up with some traditional Icelandic fare, preparing ourselves for a day of exploration. Luka was particularly excited, his eyes wide with anticipation for the adventures ahead.


Experience Icelandic flavors at Arnarstapi Center's Snjófell Restaurant amidst stunning coastal views.

After breakfast, we headed straight into Snæfellsjökull National Park. The park in January is a different world altogether. The landscape was covered in a blanket of snow, which accentuated the dramatic volcanic formations and the stark beauty of the coastline. The average temperature in Snæfellsnes Peninsula in January is around 4°C during the day and -0°C at night, but today felt colder, perhaps due to the wind coming off the ocean. We made sure to bundle up in our warmest gear, thankful for the layers we had packed. I was especially grateful for my Slovenian-made wool socks!


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Snæfellsjökull National Park, a jewel of Iceland's natural heritage.

Our first stop within the park was the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. It's located in Malarrif, built from the old sheepfolds of Malarrif town, opened in 2016. The visitor center was informative and engaging, providing us with insights into the park's geology, history, and wildlife. Luka was fascinated by the exhibits, especially the children's corner where he could play with shells and bones. Ana and I appreciated learning about the local fishermen and their connection to the sea. We picked up a few souvenirs from the small shop, including a beautifully illustrated map of the peninsula.


Discover the heart of Snæfellsnes Peninsula at the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center, your go-to hub for exploration and insights into Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

Exploring nature is a way to connect with something larger than ourselves.

Leaving the visitor center, we decided to take a short hike along one of the trails near Malarrif. The fresh air and stunning views were invigorating. The trail led us along the coastline, where we could see the dramatic basalt cliffs and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. We even spotted a few seabirds soaring overhead. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, but no photograph could truly do justice to the raw, untamed scenery.



Next on our list was the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. The drive to Arnarstapi was scenic, with snow-covered lava fields stretching out on either side of the road. As we approached the coast, the views became even more spectacular. The Arnarstapi cliffs are renowned for their unique rock formations and dramatic coastline. We parked the car and walked along the paved path that follows the cliff edge. The path is relatively easy, making it accessible for families with children.


Discover the stunning vistas of Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, where rugged cliffs meet the North Atlantic, offering unforgettable views and natural beauty.

One of the highlights of the Arnarstapi cliff walk was the Gatklettur arch rock. This natural stone arch is an iconic landmark of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. We spent some time admiring the arch and taking photos, marveling at the power of nature that had shaped this incredible formation. The viewpoint offers remarkable views in both directions, with curved columns and rocky caves along the coast. It was truly a sight to behold. We also saw the statue of Bárður Snæfellsás, a half-man, half-ogre figure from Icelandic folklore, which added a mythical touch to the landscape.



For lunch, we stopped at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa, a cozy restaurant in the village. We enjoyed some hearty Icelandic soups, which warmed us from the inside out. The restaurant had a friendly atmosphere, and we chatted with some of the locals, learning more about life on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Luka made a new friend, a young boy who shared his Lego collection with him.


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

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Arnarstapi. We walked around the small harbor, admiring the colorful fishing boats and the picturesque surroundings. The village itself is charming, with traditional Icelandic houses and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. We visited a small art gallery, where we admired the work of local artists inspired by the natural beauty of the area.



As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Bjargarsteinn Mathús. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the ocean. We enjoyed a delicious meal of locally caught cod, savoring the flavors of Iceland. The atmosphere was romantic and peaceful, a perfect way to end our first day on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.


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

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to visit Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar. I've heard that these are some of the most photographed spots in Iceland, and I'm eager to capture their beauty with my own lens. We'll start the day with breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús, followed by lunch at Sjávarkjallarinn and dinner at Hótel Snaefellsnes. We also plan to visit Kirkjufell Knitting to pick up some authentic Icelandic souvenirs.



Before heading to bed, I took a moment to reflect on our first day. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has already captured our hearts with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I also made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger, as my phone battery had died halfway through the day, and to get extra memory cards for my camera, as I had already filled up one card with photos.



As I write this, the Northern Lights are dancing across the sky outside our window. It's a magical sight, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be here in this winter wonderland. Tomorrow promises more adventures, and I can't wait to share them with you. Good night from Iceland!



Ana nudged me as I was finishing up my notes, and reminded me that we need to get some sleep.



Until tomorrow!