Family Adventure on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

A Day of Fire and Flavor

Today marked another incredible chapter in our Snæfellsnes adventure. With the family in tow, we embraced the raw, untamed beauty of this peninsula, blending a moderately challenging hike with the comforting embrace of Icelandic cuisine. It's days like these that remind me why we traded the predictable comfort of Zurich for the thrill of family travel.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Agnið Streetfood. It's a small food truck stop, but it was conveniently located, and the reviews were great. I opted for a traditional Icelandic breakfast sandwich. Ana chose a lighter option, while Luka, ever the carnivore, went straight for the Icelandic hot dog. It was a solid start to a day promising a blend of adventure and gastronomic exploration.


Experience the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Agnið Streetfood, where fast food meets fresh local flavors in Stykkishólmur.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Eldborg Crater Trailhead. The drive itself was a scenic prelude, with the stark winter landscape unfolding before us. The snow-dusted lava fields created a surreal contrast against the grey sky, a reminder of Iceland's volatile geological history.


Explore the breathtaking Eldborg Crater Trailhead in West Iceland, a hiker's paradise featuring stunning views and unique geological wonders.

Reaching the trailhead, I double-checked our gear. I was glad I had packed the hiking boots. The trail to Eldborg is described as relatively easy, but I knew that the rocky terrain could be tricky, especially with Luka. The air was crisp, and the silence was broken only by the crunch of our boots on the frozen ground. I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger when we returned home, as mine was already running low.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the stories etched into its volcanic rock and the warmth of its people.

The hike itself was invigorating. The trail wound through a lava field, a testament to the island's fiery origins. Luka, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about volcanoes and lava. I did my best to explain the geological forces at play, drawing parallels to the science lessons we had back in Switzerland. Ana, with her architect's eye, was fascinated by the textures and formations of the lava rocks, capturing them with her camera.

The climb to the crater rim was a bit steep, but manageable. There were chains installed to help with the trickier sections. As we reached the top, the view was breathtaking. The crater itself was a massive, dark bowl, a stark reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this land. The panoramic view extended across the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a tapestry of snow-covered mountains and frozen lava fields.

After soaking in the view and snapping a few photos, we carefully made our way back down. The descent was a bit slippery, but we took our time, ensuring Luka's safety. Back at the car, we were all tired but exhilarated. The Eldborg Crater hike was a testament to the raw beauty and geological wonders of Iceland.

With appetites sharpened by the hike, we drove to Sjávarkjallarinn for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended for its seafood, and we were eager to try some local delicacies. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, a welcome respite from the cold. I decided to try the Arctic Char, while Ana opted for the seafood soup. Luka, predictably, chose fish and chips. The food was delicious, a testament to the freshness of Icelandic seafood. The Arctic Char was cooked to perfection, the delicate flavor enhanced by the simple yet elegant preparation.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Sjávarpakkhúsið in Stykkishólmur - where fresh seafood meets local tradition.

After lunch, we made a quick stop at Valeria Specialty Coffee & souvenirs. I wanted to pick up a small souvenir for my mother. The shop was charming, filled with handmade crafts and local products. I ended up buying a small, hand-carved wooden bird, a memento of our Icelandic adventure. We also enjoyed a cup of coffee, a perfect pick-me-up after our meal.


Discover the warmth of Icelandic culture at Valeria Specialty Coffee & Souvenirs, where exceptional coffee meets unique local craftsmanship.

As evening approached, we made our way to Grundarfjörður for dinner at Bjargarsteinn Mathús. This restaurant was known for its traditional Icelandic cuisine and stunning waterfront views. It was the perfect setting for our last dinner on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The restaurant was housed in an old Icelandic house, adding to its charm. The menu was seasonal, featuring local products. I opted for the lamb, while Ana chose the seafood soup. Luka, again, went for a familiar option, a burger. The food was exceptional, a true celebration of Icelandic flavors. The lamb was tender and flavorful, while the seafood soup was rich and comforting. As we ate, we watched the sunset over the water, the sky ablaze with color.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much we had packed in. From the volcanic views at Eldborg Crater to the culinary delights of Sjávarkjallarinn and Bjargarsteinn Mathús, it was a day of sensory overload. But beyond the sights and tastes, it was the shared experiences, the laughter, and the sense of connection that made it truly special. As we drove back to our guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this family adventure, a journey that was shaping us in ways we couldn't have imagined.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Snæfellsnes adventure. We plan to visit Súgandisey Island Lighthouse and the Dagverðará River before heading back to Reykjavik. We'll end our trip with a final Icelandic meal at Stapinn, followed by drinks at Skipper Restaurant. It's bittersweet to think that our journey is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've created will last a lifetime. I am already looking forward to sharing more stories and photos from our trip on Evendo, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own Icelandic adventure.