Overview of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Snæfellsnes is a 90-kilometer (55-mile) peninsula extending off Iceland’s west coast. Often called “Iceland in Miniature,” it features a diversity of landscapes—black-sand beaches, basalt cliffs, moss-covered lava fields, quaint fishing villages, and the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano.

Why Snæfellsnes Is Called "Iceland in Miniature"

From dramatic waterfalls and glacier-capped peaks to geothermal features and rugged coastlines, Snæfellsnes is a microcosm of Icelandic scenery. 

Visitors can experience nearly every type of Icelandic landscape in one compact area, making it perfect for those who want a sampling of Iceland’s greatest hits.

Best Times to Visit Snæfellsnes

• Summer (June–August): Normally mild weather, nearly 24-hour daylight (especially around June 21st), and more accessible roads. Great for hiking, birdwatching, and midnight sun photography.

• Shoulder Seasons (May & September): Fewer tourists, often pleasant weather, and beautiful transitions of spring blooms or autumn colors.

• Winter (October–April): Ideal for Northern Lights viewing, lower prices, fewer crowds, and often a magical snowy landscape. However, road conditions can be challenging, and daylight hours are limited.

Snæfellsjökull National Park

This park is the home of the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier-volcano. The area is steeped in folklore and famously inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. See more about Snæfellsjökull National Park on the park's website.

Here are some highlights of the National Park:

• Djúpalónssandur: A black-pebble beach known for its smooth, dark stones and the dramatic rock formations. Rusted remains of a shipwreck still dot the beach, giving it a haunting atmosphere.

• Vatnshellir Cave: An 8,000-year-old lava tube. Guided tours are offered year-round; descend into the depths to learn about volcanic geology and connect with Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. Book Vatnshellir Cave Tour

• Skarðsvík Beach: A rare golden-sand beach in Iceland, making it a striking contrast to the usual black-sand shores.

• Skálasnagaviti: A lighthouse at the edge of the Neshraun lava field. Beautiful ocean views by the cliffs.

• Saxhóll Crater: A small volcanic crater that’s easy to climb via a set of steps. Enjoy panoramic views of the lava fields and the ocean from the top.

• Lóndrangar: Basalt pinnacles rising from the sea. The area around Lóndrangar is also a prime spot for birdwatching in summer. We recommend stopping at Svalþúfa or Malarrif to view the cliffs.

Attractions outside the National Park

Kirkjufell

Often claimed to be Iceland’s most-photographed mountain, Kirkjufell rises like a church steeple near Grundarfjörður. Pair it with nearby Kirkjufellsfoss (a small but scenic waterfall) for one of the most iconic images in Iceland.

Rauðfeldsgjá

A narrow gorge carved into the mountainside near Arnarstapi. Step inside to explore moss-covered walls and a small stream running through. Legend says a Viking saga character was thrown into this chasm. Note: the trail to Rauðfeldsgjá has claimed many twisted ankles. Loose rocks and snow may collapse from above. Also it’s not recommended in winter for safety reasons.

Búðir

A tiny hamlet famous for its starkly beautiful black wooden church, Búðakirkja and Hótel Búðir. The church stands in contrast to the surrounding lava fields and rolling mountains—making it a popular spot for photographers and wedding ceremonies.

Arnarstapi and Hellnar

Two charming coastal villages connected by a short, scenic cliffside hike. Arnarstapi’s stone arches and basalt pillars are popular with nesting seabirds. Hellnar’s tiny café, Fjöruhúsið, sits right by the coast, perfect for a cozy lunch or snack break.

Ytri Tunga

Ytri Tunga is known for its resident seal colonies. Visit at low tide during summer for the best chance to see seals basking on the rocks.

Svöðufoss

A relatively lesser-known waterfall, Svöðufoss flows dramatically with Snæfellsjökull looming in the backdrop. A short hiking trail leads from a small parking area to this scenic cascade.

Bjarnarfoss

Another beautiful waterfall, easily accessible from the main road. A short, sometimes steep path takes you closer to the falls, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Hiking Trails for All Levels

• Easy Coastal Walks: Arnarstapi–Hellnar (2.5 km one way), or short trails around Búðir and Skarðsvík. You can find a hiking map of Snæfellsjökull National Park here.

• Moderate Treks: Exploring around Rauðfeldsgjá or Saxhóll Crater.

• Advanced Routes: Summit hikes around Snæfellsjökull (guided tours recommended due to glacier travel, mostly operated as private tours).

Birdwatching

Cliffs like Lóndrangar, and coastal areas around Arnarstapi and Hellnar, brim with seabirds in spring and summer. Expect to see puffins (late April–August), arctic terns, and kittiwakes.

Lava Cave Exploration

Vatnshellir Cave: The most popular lava tube in the area. Tours typically last about 45 minutes and include safety gear. Book tour here

Horseback Riding

Experience the sure-footed Icelandic horse on guided rides across lava fields or along scenic coastlines. Several local farms offer tours for beginners and experienced riders.

ATV Tours with Simply the West

Adventurers can explore Snæfellsnes off-road with ATV tours through lava fields, beaches, and backcountry tracks. A great way to add an adrenaline kick to your trip.

Kayaking with Vestur Adventures and Kontiki

Paddle around the waters off the coast of Stykkishólmur or Grundarfjörður. Keep an eye out for seals, birdlife, and sometimes even whales.

Whale Watching with Láki Tours

Operating primarily out of Ólafsvík, Láki Tours offers the chance to see orcas, humpbacks, and other whale species. Dress warmly, even in summer, as the sea breeze can be chilly.

Boat Tours with Sea Tours

Sæferðir (based in Stykkishólmur) runs boat tours around Breiðafjörður Bay, including visits to remote islands. Some tours include birdwatching, fishing, or sampling fresh scallops straight from the sea.

Viking History and Heritage

Snæfellsnes has a rich Viking legacy that dates back to the very first settlers who arrived in Iceland around the late 9th century. The peninsula’s strategic location and abundant marine resources attracted Norse families looking to establish farms and fishing stations, many of which became key outposts in the region’s early history.

First Settlers and Viking Settlements

According to the Icelandic sagas, Norse explorers—often referred to as Vikings—first ventured into Iceland in search of new lands to farm and settle. The outer edges of Snæfellsnes provided fertile grazing areas for sheep and cattle, and the surrounding seas teemed with fish, seals, and other marine life. Over time, small farming communities spread across the peninsula, blending agriculture with seasonal fishing as the main means of subsistence.

Settlers also left behind turf ruins, old boundary markers, and place-names that still hint at the Viking Age presence. While some of these sites can be hard to discern to the untrained eye, National Park rangers occasionally offer guided walks, revealing how early Icelanders adapted to the rugged environment of the peninsula.

Gufuskálar

Located near Hellissandur on the northwestern tip of Snæfellsnes, Gufuskálar is one of the most intriguing historical sites in the area. Archaeological findings suggest it was once a thriving fishing outpost—possibly dating back to medieval or even Viking times. 

• Fishing Huts (Fiskbirgi) and Remnants: Visitors can still see the faint remains of ancient huts or storage shelters, which were used for drying fish and storing fishing gear. Over time, harsh weather and shifting sands have partially concealed them, but these remnants stand as a testament to the region’s extensive maritime history.

• Significance to Viking-Era Trade: Places like Gufuskálar and Dritvík likely played a role in the export of fish and other goods, connecting remote fishing hamlets to larger trading centers via coastal routes. This helped integrate Snæfellsnes into the wider Norse world.

Note: Our Snæfellsjökull Apartments are located at Gufuskálar.

Fishing in Dritvík

Situated in Snæfellsjökull National Park, Dritvík was once among the largest seasonal fishing hubs in Iceland. Though it’s a tranquil spot today, the site had a bustling “fishing industry village” vibe during the high season in past centuries.

• Bustling Fishing Station: At its peak, Dritvík hosted hundreds of fishermen who erected makeshift huts along the shore during fishing seasons. They utilized rowboats to venture out for cod, haddock, and other fish.

• Ties to Local Economy: The catch from Dritvík supplied surrounding communities and was sometimes traded further afield, underscoring the crucial role fishing played in survival and commerce.

• Shipwreck Artifacts: Like Djúpalónssandur, Dritvík has remnants of old wrecks scattered along the beach—offering a sobering reminder of how perilous fishing could be in the North Atlantic’s rough seas.

Legacy and Preservation

Much of the Viking heritage on Snæfellsnes remains tangible through archaeological sites, sagas, and folk stories passed down for generations. Local initiatives aim to preserve these landmarks, giving visitors a window into the hardscrabble yet resilient lifestyle of the area’s settlers and their decendants. By exploring historic fishing stations like Dritvík and Gufuskálar, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for how Vikings and later generations capitalized on Snæfellsnes’s rich marine resources—shaping the culture and economy of this remarkable corner of Iceland. Know that not many artifacts are still to be seen to the untrained eye, but ask for information at Snæfellsjökull National Park visitor center if you wish to explore this further.

Local Folklore and Legends

Snæfellsnes is brimming with folklore and legends that stretch back to Iceland’s early settlement days, and many locals still swear by these tales. One of the most famous is Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss, which tells the story of Bárður, a half-troll, half-human guardian spirit said to dwell in the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull. According to the saga, Bárður protects the region from harm, and many Icelanders believe his presence can still be felt on stormy nights when the glacier seems alive with hidden power.

Another prominent figure in local lore is Guðríður Þorbjarnardóttir, who traveled widely in the Viking Age and was said to be the most well-traveled woman of her time. Legendary accounts credit her with journeying to North America, underscoring the adventurous spirit that shaped Icelandic history.

Icelandic belief in elves, trolls, and huldufólk (the “hidden people”) is similarly entwined with the Snæfellsnes landscape. Whether it’s a peculiar rock formation rumored to be a petrified troll or a mound thought to house elves, many residents tread carefully so as not to offend these mystical beings. Some of these stories blur the line between myth and truth, reflecting the deep reverence Icelanders hold for nature.

Not all legends are benign, however. The peninsula is also home to the gruesome tale of Axlar-Björn (b. 1555), said to be the country’s only known serial killer. His story, filled with dark deeds and ominous omens, serves as a chilling counterpoint to the uplifting sagas and mystical beliefs that color Snæfellsnes’s captivating folklore.

The Literary Connection

• Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth: in this novel, Snæfellsjökull is the entry point to Earth’s core. Some visitors still come to “follow in Verne’s footsteps.”

• Other Inspired Authors, Poets, and Artists: The mystical aura of Snæfellsjökull has drawn creatives for centuries.

Churches and Historical Sites

• Búðakirkja (the Black Church): Dating back to the early 18th century.

• Stykkishólmskirkja: A modern architectural church overlooking Stykkishólmur.

• Ingjaldshólskirkja: A picturesque church situated between Hellissandur and Rif.

Fishing Since Early Settlers

Fishing has been a cornerstone of life in Snæfellsnes for over a thousand years. Many towns—Stykkishólmur, Ólafsvík, and Grundarfjörður—grew around rich fishing grounds, and today, seafood remains a mainstay of local industry.

Harsh Living Conditions for Over 1,000 Years

Historically, Snæfellsnes residents faced extreme winters, isolation, and limited resources. Yet this resilience shaped the local character and enduring traditions you’ll find in the region’s museums and folklore.

Hotels and Guesthouses

• Mid-Range: Friendly guesthouses, apartment rentals and mid-range hotels in towns like Grundarfjörður, Hellissandur, Ólafsvík, Stykkishólmur, and Arnarstapi.

• Boutique/Luxury: Hótel Búðir (famed for its elegant dining and scenic setting) is a top choice for romance or special occasions.

• Budget Options: Hostels and simpler guesthouses often provide kitchen facilities and shared dorms.

Camping and Campervan Options

• Campgrounds: Typically open May to September with facilities like showers, restrooms, and sometimes kitchen or laundry areas. Popular sites are found in Arnarstapi, Hellissandur, and Stykkishólmur.

• Campervans: A popular option in summer for flexible travel. Be sure to park only in designated areas and follow local regulations.

Local Specialties and Dishes to Try

• Seafood: Fresh cod, haddock, langoustine, scallops and halibut top the menu, often served with potatoes and fresh salad.

• Icelandic Lamb: Grass-fed and known for its robust flavor. Lamb soup is particularly popular on chilly days.

• Skyr: A high-protein, yogurt-like dairy product, served with berries or in desserts.

• Hákarl (Fermented Shark): Traditionally cured Greenland shark, available at the Shark Museum and some local eateries if you dare.

Best Restaurants and Cafés

Check opening hours, some are only open in summer.

• Sker Restaurant (Ólafsvík): Offers local fish, burgers, and daily specials.

• Adventure Hotel Hellissandur: On-site dining that highlights local ingredients, great for an end-of-day meal after exploring.

• Matarlist (Hellissandur): Casual eatery with fish and meat specialties, plus a friendly atmosphere.

• Hotel Búðir Restaurant (Búðir): Known for its upscale Icelandic cuisine, focusing on local and seasonal flavors.

• Stapinn (Arnarstapi): A popular stop for sandwiches, fish and burgers. 

• Arnarstapi Center (Arnarstapi): A collective of services including a restaurant, café, and gift shop with scenic views of Mt. Stapafell.

• Fjöruhúsið (Hellnar): An intimate café perched by the cliffs, renowned for its delicious homemade soups, cakes, and coffee.

• Langaholt (near Ytri Tunga): A family-run guesthouse and restaurant, serving fresh fish dishes along with other local specials.

• Narfeyrarstofa (Stykkishólmur): A longstanding favorite offering creative twists on Icelandic classics, plus a charming harbor view.

• Sjávarpakkhúsið (Stykkishólmur): Seafood-focused bistro with an emphasis on local catches and rustic charm.

• Kaffi 59 (Grundarfjörður): Quick bites, coffees, and sometimes live music events in the evening.

• Láki Kaffi (Grundarfjörður): A cozy café perfect for a midday coffee break or a casual lunch stop.

Food Trucks and Hidden Gems

• Seasonal Food Trucks: Look for fish and chips stands, ice cream vendors, or hot dog trucks in peak summer.

• Bakeries: Local bakeries often serve pastries like “kleinur” (twisted doughnuts) or fresh-baked bread—ideal for breakfasts on the go.

Driving Tips and Road Conditions

• Monitor Weather Conditions: Icelandic weather can change quickly. Check Vedur.is or Safetravel.is for updates.

• Monitor Road Conditions: The official site Road.is provides live road status.

Car Rentals and Travel Options

• Car Rentals: Available at Keflavík Airport or in Reykjavík. A 4x4 can be helpful in winter, but most major sites are accessible by a standard car in summer.

• Guided Tours: Day or multi-day tours departing Reykjavík are a good option if you don’t want to drive.

• Gas Stations: Found in towns on the peninsula along with 1-2 remote stations; fill up when you can, as stations can be sparse in remote areas.

Public Transportation in Snæfellsnes

• Bus Service (Strætó): Infrequent but does connect some towns. Not ideal for spontaneous exploration, but can be used if planned carefully.

• Local Shuttles: In summer, private shuttle services or local tour companies may offer pick-ups/drop-offs at key locations. No taxi service is in Snæfellsnes.

Northern Lights in Winter

• Prime Time: September to April on clear nights. Get away from town lights for the best visibility.

• Photo Tip: Use a tripod, wide-angle lens, and manual settings to capture vibrant auroras. Modern phones have long-exposure setting to help with capturing Aurora.

Midnight Sun in Summer

• Extended Daylight: From mid-May to late July, you can expect 24 hour light, peaking at summer solstice on June 21st. Great for evening hikes and photography in the golden glow around midnight.

Seasonal Festivals and Events

• Summer Festivals in Towns: Local music, arts, and fishing festivals often take place. Check town websites or tourism offices for schedules.

• Fishermen’s Day (Sjómannadagur): Held in early June, celebrating Iceland’s fishing heritage with competitions, fish tastings, and family-friendly events.

Weather and What to Pack

• Layering: Temperatures can shift quickly; pack thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy hiking boots.

• Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, and scarf—even in summer. Sunnglassess are a must for driving, with the sun often low on the horizon.

• Pack Light but Smart: A small first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, and camera are essentials.

Accessibility and Safety Tips

• Safetravel.is is your official guide to safe travels in Iceland.

• Cliff Edges: Strong winds make some viewpoints dangerous. Keep a safe distance from edges.

• Marked Paths: Stick to trails to protect fragile moss and avoid getting lost.

• Hidden dangers: Things like rugged terrain, sneaker waves, tides, snowfall, rockfall, icefall have claimed lives of tourists visiting Snæfellsnes. Use common sense and know that not all dangerous areas have signs warning about dangers.

• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for police, fire, search & rescue or ambulance.

Currency, ATMs, and Payment Methods

• Icelandic Króna (ISK): The national currency.

• Cards Accepted: Debit and credit cards are widely accepted. Cash is generally not needed, but ocassionally a farm market or other small vendors require cash.

• ATMs: Available in most towns; some smaller villages may only have one or none.

How to Respect Local Nature and Culture

• Leave No Trace: Bring all waste back with you, and refrain from disturbing wildlife or vegetation.

• Respect Sacred Sites: Churches and historic landmarks are part of Icelandic heritage—be mindful of local customs.

• Ask Before Photographing People: Icelanders are friendly but do appreciate privacy.

Supporting Local Businesses

• Eat Local: Choose restaurants that source ingredients from nearby farms and fisheries.

• Shop Local: Purchase handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs from Icelandic artisans.

One-Day Highlights of Snæfellsnes

• Morning: Drive from Reykjavík, stopping at Búðakirkja for photos.

• Midday: Visit Arnarstapi and Hellnar, enjoy lunch at Stapinn or Fjöruhúsið.

• Afternoon: Explore Vatnshellir Cave, Djúpalónssandur or Kirkjufell/Kirkjufellsfoss for those signature photos.

• Evening: Return to Reykjavík or stay overnight in Grundarfjörður if time allows.

Two-Day No-Rush Exploration

• Day 1:

o Morning: Vatnshellir Cave tour and Djúpalónssandur beach in Snæfellsjökull National Park.

o Afternoon: Lóndrangar & Svalþúfa birdwatching, then head to Hellissandur for the Maritime Museum and street art.

o Evening: Overnight in Ólafsvík or Hellissandur; catch the sunset at Skarðsvík Beach.

• Day 2:

o Morning: Start the day in Ólafsvík with a Whale Watching tour, then drive toward Kirkjufell and Grundarfjörður.

o Late afternoon: Explore Stykkishólmur and consider a boat tour with Sæferðir.

o Evening: Relax in town, try local seafood, and possibly return to Reykjavík or extend your stay.

Three-Day In-Depth Adventure

• Day 1:

o Snæfellsjökull National Park full exploration (Vatnshellir Cave, Saxhóll crater, Malarrif lighthouse, lava fields).

o Overnight near Arnarstapi or Hellnar.

• Day 2:

o Horseback riding in the morning, ATV tour in the afternoon, or a kayak trip in Grundarfjörður or Stykkishólmur.

o Evening: Seal-watching at Ytri Tunga and stay at Langaholt.

• Day 3:

o Bjarnarfoss and Svöðufoss waterfalls, then Shark Museum in Bjarnarhöfn.

o End the day in Stykkishólmur with a cozy dinner at Narfeyrarstofa or Sjávarpakkhúsið.

Family-Friendly Itineraries

• Short Walks and Beaches: Kids love Ytri Tunga for seal spotting and Skarðsvík for sand play.

• Museums and Viking Tales: The Shark Museum, Maritime Museum, or local heritage centers keep children engaged.

• Optional Boat Tours: Breiðafjörður boat rides are scenic and often educational.

Romantic Getaways and Couple’s Plans

• Sunset at Hotel Búðir: Enjoy the serene black church setting.

• Coastal Café Hopping: Try local pastries at Fjöruhúsið in Hellnar or brunch at Hótel Búðir.

• Northern Lights: Book a private tour or chase them yourselves on clear winter nights.

Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss

• Berserkjahraun Lava Field: Steeped in Viking sagas, less visited but equally impressive for lava formations.

• Hellissandur Street Art: Vibrant murals in a tiny fishing village—an unexpected splash of color.

• Local Swimming Pools: Towns like Stykkishólmur, Grundarfjörður and Ólafsvík have geothermal swimming pools—an affordable way to relax like a local. Don't forget to check Lýsuhóll swimming pool as well! (local favourite)

Best Spots for Photography

• Kirkjufell at Sunrise or Sunset: Iconic silhouette and reflections.

• Arnarstapi’s Gatklettur (Stone Arch): Dramatic ocean backdrops.

• Skarðsvík Beach: Unusual golden sands against a volcanic coastline.

• Hreggnasi: Rugged mountain in Snæfellsjökull National Park.

When to Visit Popular Attractions to Avoid Crowds

• Go Early or Late: Aim for early morning or late evening, especially in summer when daylight is abundant.

• National Park Busiest Between 1 PM and 3 PM: Plan your visits to Djúpalónssandur, Vatnshellir Cave, or Lóndrangar before or after these peak hours to enjoy quieter moments.

Common Questions

1. Is Snæfellsnes doable in a single day from Reykjavík?

o Yes, but you’ll have a packed schedule. 

Spending at least two days is recommended to fully appreciate the area.

2. Is Snæfellsjökull Stratovolcano active?

o It is technically active, but dormant. The last eruption occurred around 1,800 years ago.

3. Are there gas stations around the peninsula?

o Yes, primarily in larger towns like Stykkishólmur, Ólafsvík, and Grundarfjörður. Always top off when you have the chance.

4. Do people speak English in Snæfellsnes?

o Most Icelanders speak fluent English, especially in tourist-oriented businesses.

5. Can I see puffins in Snæfellsnes?

o Puffins nest in nearby cliffs from late April to mid-August, with prime viewing in June and July.

About the Area

• Population: Spread out in small towns and villages, with roughly 3-4,000 people across the peninsula.

• Economy: Primarily fishing and tourism, with some agriculture.

Language, Customs, and Etiquette

• Local Greetings: A simple “hello” (hæ) or “good day” (góðan daginn) is always appreciated.

• Tipping: Not required, but rounding up the bill is welcomed for exceptional service.

Emergency Contacts and Useful Resources

• Emergency Number (Police, Search&rescue, Fire, Ambulance): 112

• Road Conditions: Road.is

• Weather Forecast: Vedur.is

• Travel Safety Information: Safetravel.is

• Local Tourism Info: Visit West Iceland or town-specific websites.