Exploring the Wonders of Snæfellsjökull National Park

A Day of Artistic Exploration in Rif

Today was a delightful immersion into the heart of Rif, a charming village in Snæfellsjökull National Park. The crisp December air, carrying a hint of sea salt, set the perfect tone for a day filled with art, delicious food, and cozy moments. Liam and I were excited to explore the local culture and capture the essence of this picturesque corner of Iceland.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bjargarsteinn Mathús in Grundarfjörður. The drive there was scenic, and the anticipation of tasting local flavors made it even better. Bjargarsteinn is known for its charming atmosphere and exceptional views, and we were not disappointed.

We arrived at the restaurant, a beautifully renovated building with a history stretching back to 1908. The interior was cozy and inviting, and the staff welcomed us warmly. I opted for the traditional Icelandic breakfast, while Liam chose a more continental option. Both were delicious and set us up perfectly for the day ahead. It's amazing how a good meal can really enhance the start of an adventure!

After breakfast, we drove back towards Rif, eager to explore the town's renowned murals. Rif is a small fishing village, and its transformation into an outdoor art gallery is truly remarkable. As we strolled through the streets, we were captivated by the vibrant colors and intricate designs that adorned the buildings.

The murals told stories of Icelandic folklore, marine life, and the unique connection between Icelanders and their environment. I was particularly drawn to one mural that depicted whales breaching through constellations, blending elements of biology and fantasy into a celestial scene. It was a beautiful representation of the intersection between nature and imagination.


Discover the vibrant Murals of Rif, an outdoor gallery that showcases stunning street art, reflecting the rich culture and history of the region.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Liam, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing every detail of the artwork. We spent a couple of hours wandering around, discovering hidden gems and appreciating the creativity of the local and international artists who had transformed this quiet village into a vibrant cultural hub. It reminded me a bit of the street art scene in Reykjavik, which has really taken off in recent years.

One of the highlights was the whale mural, a striking tribute to the marine life that thrives in the waters around Snæfellsjökull National Park. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of marine conservation and the delicate ecosystems that support these magnificent creatures. We took some photos, trying to capture the essence of the mural and its message.


Discover the vibrant Whale Mural in Grundarfjörður, a stunning tribute to Iceland's marine life waiting to be explored.

For lunch, we decided to try Matarlist in Ólafsvík. This family-owned restaurant is known for its fresh, local dishes and contemporary Icelandic flavors. The drive to Ólafsvík was beautiful, offering stunning views of the coastline and the dramatic winter landscape.


Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine at Matarlist in Hellissandur—where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.

Matarlist was a cozy and welcoming spot. We started with the creamy seafood soup, which was rich and flavorful. For the main course, I opted for the pan-seared cod, while Liam chose the Highland lamb rack. Both dishes were expertly prepared, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients. It was a true taste of the Snæfellsnes coast, and we savored every bite.

After lunch, we drove back to Rif and decided to stop by Kaffi 59, a local bar known for its cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. We ordered some local beers and chatted with the friendly bartender, who shared some interesting stories about the village and its history.


Discover the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi 59, a cozy restaurant in Grundarfjörður offering fresh local cuisine and stunning mountain views.

The bar was filled with locals, and we felt a genuine sense of community. It was a reminder of why we love to travel – to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures and to experience life from a different perspective. I even tried a few phrases in Gaelic, much to Liam's amusement, practicing what I've been learning back in Dublin. It's always fun to try and bridge cultural gaps, even in small ways.

As the evening approached, we headed to Arnarbær for dinner. Located near the camping site, this restaurant is known for its local food, seafood, and pizzas. Despite being open only during the high season, we were fortunate to find it open and bustling with activity.


Discover culinary delights at Arnarbær in beautiful Arnarstapi, where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.

We decided to try their famous fish and chips and a thin-crust pizza. The fish and chips were perfectly crispy, and the pizza was delicious. The prices were reasonable, which was a pleasant surprise, considering we were in Iceland. The atmosphere was lively, and we enjoyed the company of other travelers and locals.

After dinner, we took a leisurely walk along the coast, enjoying the crisp evening air and the stunning views of the ocean. The Northern Lights weren't visible tonight, but the stars were out in full force, creating a magical ambiance.

As we drove back to our accommodation, we reflected on the day's adventures. Rif had exceeded our expectations, offering a perfect blend of art, culture, and culinary delights. It was a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are found in the smallest and most unexpected places.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the remains of the Epine GY7 Fishing Trawler and visit Minifoss. We're also looking forward to breakfast at Samkomuhúsið Arnarstapa and perhaps finding a unique souvenir at the Lyngdal gift shop. Until then, goodnight from Snæfellsjökull National Park!

Before drifting off to sleep, I realized I'd forgotten to pack extra batteries for my camera and the travel-sized first aid kit. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!