Exploring the Wonders of Snæfellsnes with Friends

A Whale of a Day to End Our Adventure

As our Snæfellsnes adventure drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness mixed with immense gratitude. This peninsula had offered us a condensed version of Iceland's diverse beauty, and today was all about soaking up the last bits of it. With my friends, I was ready to make the most of our final day, exploring unique attractions and savoring the local flavors one last time.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Icelandic fare were the perfect way to start our last day on the peninsula. I opted for the traditional lamb stew, hoping to get one last true taste of Iceland. The hearty meal fortified us for the day's adventures ahead. After breakfast, we checked out of our lodging and started our drive toward our first destination: the Seagulls viewpoint.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Seagulls Viewpoint in Ólafsvík, Iceland, where stunning coastal landscapes and abundant wildlife await every visitor.

Sometimes, the best travel memories are the unexpected detours and quirky encounters that add a unique flavor to the journey.

The drive to the Seagulls viewpoint was scenic, to say the least. The rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs provided a stunning backdrop as we made our way to Ólafsvík. When we got to the Seagulls viewpoint, we were greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the coastline. The wind was strong, carrying the cries of the gulls as they soared effortlessly against the backdrop of the Atlantic. I managed to snap a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this wild and beautiful place. The fresh ocean air invigorated us, and we spent a good half-hour simply taking in the views and reflecting on our amazing week. I couldn’t help but think of Olivia and Ethan, wishing they were here to share this moment with me. I made a mental note to bring them back someday.

After the Seagulls viewpoint, we were ready for our next stop: the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum.


Explore the Bjarnarhön Shark Museum, a unique Icelandic attraction dedicated to the fascinating world of sharks and their significance in maritime culture.

Now, I'll admit, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from a shark museum, but it turned out to be one of the most unique and memorable experiences of the trip. As we drove up to the museum, the landscape changed, becoming more rugged and remote. Bjarnarhöfn itself is a charming farmstead with a rich history, and the museum is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Icelandic people.

Inside, we were greeted by a friendly guide who was eager to share the story of hakarl, the traditional Icelandic fermented shark. He explained the process of how the Greenland shark is caught and then buried in the ground for several weeks to ferment, before being hung to dry for several months. It’s a rather pungent process, to say the least! We learned about the biology of the Greenland shark and the cultural significance of hakarl in Iceland. The guide also shared stories of the seafarers who risked their lives hunting these creatures.

Of course, no visit to the Shark Museum would be complete without trying the hakarl itself. I hesitated for a moment, remembering some of the warnings I’d read about its… unique flavor. But, ever the adventurous traveler, I decided to give it a go. I took a small piece and braced myself. The taste was… interesting. It had a strong ammonia flavor, followed by a fishy aftertaste that lingered for quite a while. It’s definitely not something I’d crave on a regular basis, but I’m glad I tried it. I washed it down with a shot of Brennivin, a local spirit known as “Black Death,” which, I must say, did help to neutralize the taste.

After the museum, we were all feeling a bit peckish, so we headed to Sjávarkjallarinn for lunch.


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

This renowned seafood restaurant in Stykkishólmur promised a culinary experience to remember. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the coastal setting. We were seated at a table with a view of the harbor, and I could feel myself unwinding as I took in the peaceful scenery.

The menu was a seafood lover’s dream, with a variety of fresh catches prepared in innovative and delicious ways. I decided to try the lobster soup, which came highly recommended. Each of my friends ordered something different, and we shared tastes of everything. The flavors were exquisite, and it was clear that the chefs took great pride in using local ingredients and showcasing the best of Icelandic cuisine. I paired my meal with a local beer, and it was the perfect way to relax and reflect on our journey.

As we savored our meal, we talked about all the amazing things we had seen and done over the past week. From the majestic waterfalls to the rugged coastlines, from the charming towns to the quirky museums, Snæfellsnes had truly captured our hearts. We reminisced about our hikes, our wildlife encounters, and the delicious food we had enjoyed. It was a trip filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

With our bellies full and our hearts content, we decided to make one last stop before heading back to Reykjavik: Skipper Restaurant.


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

We stopped there for a quick drink to celebrate the end of our trip. As the sun began to set, we raised our glasses to Snæfellsnes, to Iceland, and to the bonds of friendship that had made this journey so special.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. This trip to Snæfellsnes with my friends has been an incredible experience, one that I will cherish for years to come. I’ve seen breathtaking landscapes, tasted unique flavors, and learned so much about the history and culture of this amazing country. And while I’m sad to be leaving, I know that this is not goodbye, but rather “see you later.” Iceland, I’ll be back!

Tomorrow, I will head back to Reykjavik and prepare for my flight back to the UK. It’s always a bittersweet feeling, leaving a place that has captured your heart. But I know that I’m bringing back with me a wealth of memories and experiences that will enrich my life for years to come. And who knows, maybe Olivia and Ethan will be up for joining me on my next adventure!