Exploring the Wonders of Snæfellsnes with Friends

A Day of Iconic Views and Cozy Finds

Today was all about capturing that perfect Icelandic postcard moment and diving into the local craftsmanship. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula continues to surprise and delight, blending natural beauty with charming cultural experiences. It's days like these that make you truly appreciate the simple joys of travel: breathtaking views, delicious food, and unique souvenirs.

We started our day with breakfast at Hótel Snaefellsnes. The free breakfast was a delightful spread of local cuisine. I enjoyed the fresh bread and cakes baked right at the hotel. It's always great to start the day with a good meal, especially when you know you'll be doing a lot of exploring. Olivia particularly enjoyed the coffee, while I appreciated the skyr, a traditional Icelandic yogurt. Ethan, of course, went straight for the pastries. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the day's adventures.

Our first stop was the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfossar waterfall. As we approached, the mountain's distinctive shape dominated the horizon, just as I'd seen in countless photos. It's one of Iceland's most photographed mountains. The weather was kind to us, with a mix of clouds and sunshine that created dramatic lighting across the landscape. We parked a little further away to save on parking fees and enjoyed a short walk to the falls.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufell Mountain, a must-visit national park in Iceland, famed for its stunning landscapes and iconic waterfall.

Kirkjufellsfossar is more than just a waterfall; it's a series of cascades that create a picturesque scene with Kirkjufell Mountain as the backdrop. We spent a good hour wandering around, taking photos from different angles. Ethan, ever the explorer, was fascinated by the small stream and spent ages trying to build a dam. I managed to snap some great shots, though I must admit, capturing the essence of this place is a challenge – it's even more stunning in person.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kirkjufellsfossar, an iconic waterfall nestled in the heart of Iceland, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Sometimes, the most beautiful things are the ones that require a bit of effort to reach, but the reward is always worth it.

After soaking in the beauty of Kirkjufell, we headed to Kirkjufell knitting. I was keen to find a cozy Icelandic sweater to bring back home. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted wool products. Colorful Icelandic sweaters, scarves, and hats were all made from the finest local wool. I chatted with the owners, who shared insights about their knitting techniques and the stories behind the designs. I ended up buying a beautiful scarf for Olivia and a quirky hat for Ethan, promising myself I'd return for a sweater before we leave the peninsula. It's a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in Icelandic culture and take home a piece of its heritage.


Explore the charming Kirkjufell Knitting store in Grundarfjörður for authentic Icelandic knitted apparel and unique handcrafted gifts.

Lunchtime found us in Arnarstapi at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa. This charming restaurant is known for its traditional Icelandic food and inviting atmosphere. We tried the vegetable soup, which was delicious and warming – perfect for a slightly chilly August day. Olivia enjoyed the homemade bread, and Ethan devoured his portion of Icelandic pancakes. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home.


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

After lunch, we explored the coastal area around Arnarstapi. The unique rock formations and dramatic cliffs were incredible. We walked along the stone-paved path towards Arnarstapi Cliff View Point, taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The fresh sea air and the sound of crashing waves were invigorating. I spotted the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue, a man-made structure of stacked stones, which added an interesting touch to the landscape.

Our final meal of the day was dinner at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. This restaurant emphasizes local cuisine, offering an authentic Icelandic dining experience. I opted for the fish and chips, which were indeed some of the best I've had. Olivia tried the lamb dish, which was tender and flavorful, while Ethan enjoyed a simple burger. The restaurant also has large windows allowing natural light to flood the space, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.


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

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula continues to impress with its diverse landscapes and charming local culture. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge and Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring []. I am particularly excited about the gorge, as I've heard it's a hidden gem with a unique and dramatic landscape.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by Narfeyrarstofa for a nightcap []. It's always nice to end the day with a relaxing drink and good conversation, especially when shared with friends. As we sipped our drinks, we reminisced about the day's highlights, from the majestic Kirkjufell to the cozy knitting shop and the delicious Icelandic cuisine. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds with those we share them with.

Back at our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has exceeded all expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. As I drift off to sleep, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, eager to discover what new wonders await us in this magical corner of Iceland.

For those planning a trip to Iceland, I highly recommend including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in your itinerary. It's a destination that truly has something for everyone, from breathtaking landscapes to charming local culture and delicious cuisine. Whether you're an avid photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is sure to captivate your heart and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

We are also keeping an eye out for the total solar eclipse that will be visible in Iceland on August 12, 2026. It's supposed to be an incredible event, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is one of the best places to view it. The Iceland Eclipse Festival will be held from August 12–15, 2026, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.