Solo Adventure in Iceland: Exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Whispers of Iceland's Wild Side

Today was a day of raw beauty and hidden stories, a testament to the untamed spirit of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From the depths of a saga-infused gorge to the geometric marvels of basalt cliffs and the gentle sway of whispering grasses, Iceland continued to unveil its captivating layers. I savored every moment, feeling a profound connection to this land of fire and ice.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Hótel Snaefellsnes. The hotel exuded a cozy charm, and the spread of local cuisine was a delightful way to fuel up for the adventures ahead. I enjoyed the warm bread and cakes baked fresh each morning, a testament to the hotel's commitment to local flavors. Sipping my coffee, I gazed out at the panoramic views of the Elliðatindar mountain range, feeling grateful for another day in this magical place.

Our first stop was Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape gradually transforming into a more rugged terrain. As I approached the gorge, I could feel a sense of anticipation building. The entrance to Rauðfeldsgjá is a narrow crevice in the mountainside, barely wide enough for a couple of people. It felt like stepping into another world as I ventured into the shadows of the gorge.


Explore Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland, offering breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and an unforgettable hiking adventure.

The saga of Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge is as captivating as the natural wonder itself. Legend has it that Bárður Snæfellsás, a half-human, half-troll, sought revenge for his daughter's misfortune by pushing Rauðfeldur into this very gorge. The name Rauðfeldsgjá, meaning Red-Cloak Rift, is a haunting reminder of this tale.

Inside, the gorge was a symphony of sights and sounds. A small stream, Sleggjubeina, trickled through the narrow passage, and the towering cliffs were adorned with vibrant green moss. The light filtering through the slit in the rock created an ethereal glow, adding to the mystique of the place. I hiked a little further in, having to climb over some rocks. I was glad I had my hiking boots on, as the rocks were slippery. Though I didn't attempt the climb with the rope further into the ravine, I was happy to have experienced the grotto.

Leaving Rauðfeldsgjá, I felt a thrill of adventure and a deeper appreciation for the stories etched into the Icelandic landscape. It's amazing how a place can be both beautiful and steeped in such dramatic history. It reminded me of the stories my grandmother used to tell me about Gyeongju, the city where I grew up in South Korea. History and nature are so intertwined; it's hard to separate the two. Perhaps that's why I find these places so compelling.

Next on the itinerary were the Gerðuberg Cliffs. As I approached, I was immediately struck by the sight of the perfectly shaped hexagonal basalt columns. Stretching over half a kilometer, the cliffs resembled a fortress wall, a testament to the forces of nature that shaped them.


Explore the breathtaking Gerðuberg Cliffs, home to stunning basalt columns and diverse wildlife, a true Icelandic natural wonder.

The geology of Gerðuberg is fascinating. Thousands of years ago, during an eruption, rivers of lava flowed off these cliffs in equal streams. As the lava cooled rapidly in contact with the sea, it solidified into these unique, symmetrical columns. Standing there, I couldn't help but marvel at the precision of nature's artistry. The columns, ranging from seven to fourteen meters in height and up to one and a half meters in width, were a sight to behold. I took a walk along the base of the cliffs, admiring the geometric patterns and the sheer scale of the formation.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After a morning of exploration, it was time for lunch. I stopped at Skipper Restaurant in Rif, a charming spot recommended by several locals. The restaurant had a friendly, family-run atmosphere, and the menu offered a variety of dishes to suit every taste. I decided to try the fish and chips, a classic done exceptionally well. The cod was fresh and flaky, the batter crispy and light, and the fries perfectly golden. It was the ideal comfort food after a morning of hiking and sightseeing. I overheard some other tourists talking about the vegan options and the friendly service. It sounds like a great place for everyone.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Skipper Restaurant in Stykkishólmur, where fresh seafood meets local flavors in a cozy setting.

With a satisfied stomach, I continued my journey to Lýsuhóll. This family-run horse farm offers horseback riding tours along the stunning beaches and lava fields of Snæfellsnes. As someone who loves animals and enjoys being outdoors, I was excited to experience Iceland from a different perspective. Although I didn't have Maximilian or Hanna with me, I imagined how much Hanna would have enjoyed riding the Icelandic horses.


Experience the best of Snæfellsbær at Lýsuhóll, where delicious cuisine meets cozy accommodations and thrilling horseback riding adventures amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

As I arrived, I was greeted by the gentle Icelandic horses, each with its own unique personality. The staff at Lýsuhóll were warm and welcoming, and they matched me with a horse named Atlas, who seemed as eager as I was to begin our ride. The ride took us through diverse landscapes, from black lava fields to golden beaches with the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance. It was an exhilarating experience, feeling the wind in my hair and the rhythm of the horse beneath me.

Later, I learned that Lýsuhóll is also known for its unique whispering grass, which is said to have healing properties. Though I didn't get a chance to experience it firsthand, I made a mental note to return and explore this aspect of Lýsuhóll further. Perhaps next time, I’ll bring Maximilian and Hanna, and we can all enjoy the magic of this place together.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Arnarstapi for dinner at Samkomuhúsið. This charming restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Icelandic cuisine. I ordered the lamb soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that warmed me from the inside out. The restaurant was filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the delicious food and the friendly ambiance. It felt like a true taste of Iceland, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Samkomuhúsið in Arnarstapi – where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Berserkjahraun, Ölkelduvatn Mineral Spring, and the Stone Bridge. I am also planning to visit Hrund, a local shop. I can't wait to see what other wonders await me on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Each day here is a new adventure, a chance to connect with nature, history, and the unique spirit of Iceland. I am so glad I decided to take this solo trip. It's allowing me to reflect, recharge, and rediscover my love for travel and photography. I am excited to share more of my journey with you all soon.