Exploring the Wonders of Snæfellsnes with Friends

First Impressions: Snæfellsnes Beckons

The start of any adventure is always filled with a unique kind of excitement, a blend of anticipation and the unknown. Today marked the beginning of our eight-day journey through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and what a start it was! With my friends in tow, I was eager to immerse myself in the legendary landscapes of Iceland. From basalt columns to volcanic majesty, today was nothing short of spectacular.

Our first day in Snæfellsnes was nothing short of breathtaking. After landing in Reykjavik and grabbing our rental, we set off towards the peninsula, ready to soak in all the natural beauty Iceland had to offer. The drive itself was an experience, with the landscape transforming into a dramatic showcase of Iceland's raw beauty. The anticipation was palpable as we approached our first major stop: Snæfellsjökull National Park.


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

The park, named after the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier-capped volcano, is a microcosm of Iceland itself, offering a diverse range of landscapes from lava fields and rugged coastlines to charming fishing villages. It’s no wonder some call it “Iceland in Miniature”. I could already tell this trip was going to be one for the books.

Exploring Snæfellsjökull National Park

As we entered Snæfellsjökull National Park, the landscape transformed into something truly otherworldly. The dramatic vistas and raw beauty of the area immediately captivated us. The park is relatively easy to access, and while a 4WD isn't strictly necessary, it’s definitely recommended, especially if you plan on venturing off the main roads.

We decided to start with a hike, eager to stretch our legs after the long journey. The trails offered stunning views of the glacier, which, despite being August, still had a significant ice cap. The weather was surprisingly mild, hovering around 13°C (56°F), perfect for hiking. We made sure to pack layers, though, as the weather in Iceland can change in an instant.

“The beauty of Snæfellsjökull lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but also in its ability to make you feel utterly insignificant in the face of such natural grandeur.”

One of the highlights was learning about the park's history. Back in the 13th century, this area was a major fishing hub, providing easy access to the fertile waters of Breiðafjörður Bay. The villages of Hellissandur, Rif, and Ólafsvík were primarily populated by fishermen. Today, the area is a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

A Stop at the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center

Before diving deeper into the park, we made a pit stop at the Snæfellsnes Visitor Center. Located at the entrance to Snæfellsnes, in Breiðablik, the center is a treasure trove of information, helping visitors plan their perfect holiday. The friendly staff provided us with maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations, which were incredibly helpful.


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

The center also boasts engaging displays that highlight the unique geology and folklore of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. I found it fascinating to learn about the local legends and the area's rich cultural heritage. Plus, the restrooms were a welcome sight after our long drive!

The Geological Marvel of Gerðuberg Cliffs

Our next stop was the Gerðuberg Cliffs, a truly remarkable geological formation. Located on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, these basalt columns are a sight to behold. As we approached, the symmetrical, hexagonal columns rose majestically from the earth, creating a natural fortress.


Discover the stunning Gerðuberg Cliffs, with their iconic basalt columns and breathtaking views, a must-see destination on your Icelandic adventure.

The Gerðuberg cliffs are easily accessible from Highway 54, with a small parking lot just a short walk away. The cliffs stretch for over a kilometer, with columns ranging from 7 to 14 meters (23 to 46 feet) tall. What’s particularly striking is the geometrical symmetry of the columns, which appear almost hand-carved.

These cliffs were formed thousands of years ago during an eruption when rivers of basaltic lava flowed off the cliffs in equal streams. The sea rapidly cooled the lava, causing it to solidify into these unique pillar shapes. Walking along the base of the cliffs, we marveled at nature’s artistry, snapping photos and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Culinary Delights: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

No adventure is complete without sampling the local cuisine, and today was no exception. For breakfast, we stopped at Hlaðan Veitingahús, a charming restaurant that is known for its authentic Icelandic cuisine. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made it the perfect start to our day. I opted for a traditional Icelandic breakfast, which included skyr (Icelandic yogurt) with berries and a hearty slice of rye bread. It was delicious and provided the energy we needed for our explorations.


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

Lunch found us at Agnið streetfood in Stykkishólmur, a culinary hotspot known for its diverse menu. I decided to try the fish tacos, which came highly recommended. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the tacos were bursting with flavor. It was the perfect quick and satisfying meal to keep us going.


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

For dinner, we headed to Bjargarsteinn Mathús, a fine dining spot in Grundarfjörður. This restaurant is renowned for its stunning views and exceptional cuisine. The cozy and homely ambiance made us feel right at home. I indulged in the catch of the day, which was perfectly cooked and incredibly flavorful. We lingered over our meal, savoring each bite and enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.


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

Reflections on the Day

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we had. From the majestic Snæfellsjökull National Park to the geological wonder of the Gerðuberg Cliffs, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. The delicious meals we enjoyed along the way only added to the richness of the day.

Tonight, we’re prepping for another exciting day. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint and the Bárður Snæfellsás Statue. We’ll be having breakfast at Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant, lunch at Stapinn, and dinner at Sjávarkjallarinn. And, if we have time, we might just pop into Hjå Góðu Fólki for a drink.

Snæfellsnes has already cast its spell on me, and I can’t wait to see what other wonders await us in the days to come. This is just the beginning of our Icelandic adventure, and I have a feeling it’s going to be an unforgettable one.

Until tomorrow!