Exploring the Wonders of Snæfellsjökull National Park

A Day of Discovery on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has already exceeded all expectations! Today, Liam and I embarked on our Icelandic adventure, and what a start it has been. From dramatic cliffs to charming local eateries, every moment felt like stepping into a postcard. It's amazing how quickly you can fall in love with a place, especially when it's as breathtaking as this.

Our day began bright and early with a flight from Dublin to Reykjavik. As always, I managed to forget something – this time, it was the travel-sized first aid kit. Luckily, Liam had packed his, ever the prepared one! After picking up our rental car, we set off towards Snæfellsjökull National Park. The drive itself was stunning, with snow-dusted lava fields stretching as far as the eye could see. The anticipation was palpable as we approached our destination.

Our first stop was the Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint. Even in December, the raw beauty of the Icelandic coast is something to behold. The wind was biting, but we bundled up in our warmest thermals and ventured out. The dramatic cliffs, carved by centuries of relentless waves, were truly mesmerizing. We followed the walking path, cameras in hand, capturing the unique basalt formations and the crashing waves below.


Discover the awe-inspiring Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean in a breathtaking display of nature's beauty.

The Arnarstapi Cliff Viewpoint is a must-see destination for travelers and photographers visiting Arnarstapi, Iceland. This stunning location offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and surrounding landscapes.

One of the highlights was Gatklettur, a natural stone arch that framed the turbulent sea. I could have spent hours watching the waves crash through it. We even spotted a few Arctic terns nesting on the cliffs, a delightful surprise for this time of year. I made a mental note to bring binoculars next time, as the birdlife here is incredible. We took the scenic walking path that led us closer to the village of Arnarstapi. The walk was easy, about 15-20 minutes and 1 km from the center of the village.

After our cliffside exploration, we were ready for a warm breakfast. We headed to Arnarstapi Center and Snjófell Restaurant. The restaurant had a cozy, contemporary feel, with large windows offering stunning views of Mount Stapafell. I opted for the traditional Icelandic meat soup, while Liam went for the fish and chips. Both were delicious and exactly what we needed to warm up. I was happy to see they emphasize local cuisine, providing an authentic Icelandic dining experience. We learned that Snjófell sources its ingredients locally, ensuring a fresh, hearty meal.


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

With our bellies full, we decided to visit Bárðarlaug. The small lake offered a tranquil contrast to the rugged coastline. It was a peaceful spot, perfect for a moment of reflection. The landscape was so serene, and the crisp air invigorated us. I tried to imagine the sagas that might have unfolded here, adding a layer of mystique to the already captivating scenery.


Experience the serene beauty of Bárðarlaug, a hidden gem in Hellnar, Iceland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations.

For lunch, we decided to try FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi. I had heard rave reviews about their fish and chips, and they did not disappoint. The fish was perfectly cooked, with a crispy, light batter, and the sweet potato fries were a must-try. Liam and I shared a portion, savoring every bite. The unique cornflake breading on the chips was a delightful surprise. Despite a bit of a wait due to limited staff, the food was well worth it. We sat at one of the picnic tables outside the truck, enjoying our meal amidst the stunning surroundings.


Experience authentic Icelandic street food at FRISTA Food Truck in Arnarstapi while enjoying stunning views of nature's beauty.

Before dinner, we popped into Wool ARTelier, a charming little shop in Arnarstapi. I'm always on the lookout for unique, locally made items, and this place was a treasure trove. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, perfect for the Icelandic winter. Liam, surprisingly, found a quirky woolen hat that he couldn't resist. It's moments like these, discovering hidden gems, that make traveling so special.


Explore the creative world of Wool ARTelier, where Iceland's rich craftsmanship meets artistic expression in a charming studio setting.

As evening approached, we drove to Hellnar to check into Fosshotel Hellnar, where we would have dinner. The hotel was lovely, with exceptional views over Hellnar's cliffed coasts. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and we were seated by a window overlooking the ocean. For dinner, I chose the Arctic char, while Liam opted for the lamb. Both dishes were beautifully prepared and incredibly flavorful. The staff was friendly and accommodating, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Experience Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights at Fosshotel Hellnar - your perfect retreat on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

After dinner, we took a short walk along the coast, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Unfortunately, the sky was too cloudy tonight. However, the stars that peeked through were still magical. We returned to our room, feeling content and grateful for the incredible day. Fosshotel Hellnar is closed between November 1 and April 30, but luckily it was open for us.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Snæfellsjökull glacier and Vatnshellir Cave. I'm particularly excited about the cave, as I've always been fascinated by geology. We will have breakfast at Hlaðan Veitingahús, lunch at Viðvík Restaurant, and dinner at Hotel Langaholt & Restaurant. Liam is looking forward to unwinding at The Freezer Hostel, Apartments & Culture Centre.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. Iceland is truly a magical place, and I'm so excited to see what adventures tomorrow will bring.

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.”

Good night from Snæfellsjökull National Park!

P.S. I really need to remember to pack extra camera batteries next time! The scenery here is just too stunning to risk running out of power.