Guide to Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a microcosm of Iceland—a sampler platter serving up all the country’s varied, dramatic landscapes in a relatively small land area. From snow-capped mountains to rocky, wave-battered coastlines to otherworldly lava fields, Snaefellsnes has it all. There’s so much to see and do here, you could easily spend several days exploring. But most visitors to Iceland want to see as much of the country as possible. With that in mind, here’s a list of must-see sites in Snaefellsnes.
getting around snaefellsnes peninsula
Navigating Snaefellsnes Peninsula is relatively easy. There are only a few roads, so it’s difficult to get lost. Route 54 is a loop that runs along both the northern and southern coastlines and cuts from north to south closer to the western edge of the peninsula. Approaching Snaefellsnes from Reykjavik in the south, Route 54 is paved. But approaching from the north, a significant portion of Route 54 is gravel. So if you approach from the north be prepared to drive slower and much more carefully.
Route 574 winds through Snæfellsjökull National Park, which is located at the western edge of the peninsula.
One more road worth mentioning is Route 56. Like the portion of Route 54 (the loop), Route 56 cuts across the peninsula’s mountainous interior from north to south.
where to eat
We explored the Snaefellsnes Peninsula by camper van and, for the most part, made our own food while we were there. But we did treat ourselves at two fantastic eateries that we highly recommend.
Gilbakki
We stumbled upon this charming cafe in Hellissandur with a cozy interior and friendly staff. It’s a great place to stop for a quick breakfast or lunch. They serve lots of baked goods, coffee, and amazing fish soup.
Bjargarsteinn Mathús
Bjargarsteinn Mathús is a waterfront restaurant in Grundarfjörður that’s on the more expensive side. The seasonal menu features traditional Icelandic dishes but also has vegetarian options. The food here is amazing for meat-eaters and non-meat eaters alike!
Fjöruhúsið Café
Another wonderful place to grab a bite to eat is Fjöruhúsið Café in Hellnar. We stumbled upon this place totally by accident and were pleasantly surprised by the simple but delicious food. The freshly baked bread is to-die-for, and the fish stew is great too! If it’s not too cold, you can sit on the veranda and enjoy a beautiful view of the Atlantic while you eat.
what to see and do
Sheep’s Waterfall
Located on Route 56, Sheep’s Waterfall is a hidden gem of Snaefellsnes. When you arrive to the parking area, it won’t be immediately apparent how to get to the waterfall since there isn’t a clearly marked trail. Just head down the embankment leading toward Selvallavatn Lake (can’t miss it) and turn to the left. Eventually, you’ll see the beautiful, cascading waterfall and stream flowing out toward the lake and mountains in the distance. Especially if it’s been raining, this area can be muddy and slippery. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear.
Berserkjahraun Lava Field
Few people know about Berserkjahraun Lava Field. But if you spend time exploring this place, you’ll be glad you did, because it’s one of the coolest places you’ll see! Located along 558 Berserkjahraunsvegur, a gravel path off the northern portion of Route 54, Berserkjahraun is a 4000-year-old lava field with piles of moss-covered rocks strewn across the landscape as far as the eye can see.
Grundarfjörður
Grundarfjörður is a charming town on the northern coast of Snaefellsnes and home to the famous Kirkjufell Mountain (more on this below).
Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss
If you’ve seen any pictures of Iceland, most likely you’ve seen one of Kirkjufell Mountain. This iconic site is one of Iceland’s most photographed, and when you’re there it’s easy to see why! You can expect a crowd to be present throughout the day.
If you want to get amazing pictures of the mountain and waterfall, and the weather allows, it’s best to go during the hour before sunset or after sunrise. Another pro-tip: Most people will take photos from the path right next to the waterfall. After you’ve done that, try walking beyond this area, along the trail leading down the hill to the shore of the inlet. If the water is calm, you just might catch a breathtaking reflection of the mountain!
Svörtuloft Lighthouse
Svörtuloft Lighthouse is located in the northern portion of Snæfellsjökull National Park, and it’s bright orange, like something straight out of a Wes Anderson movie! It’s a little off the beaten path though, as you have to drive down a winding, uneven gravel road to get there. But it’s worth your time! The lighthouse stands on cliffs that tower over the crashing waves of the Atlantic. These cliffs are home to thousands of nesting birds. If you have binoculars or a powerful telephoto lens, this would be a great place to use them!
Lóndrangar View Point
Lóndrangar View Point is another great place to stop within Snæfellsjökull National Park. Here you’ll see dark and dramatic rock formations along the coast. These cliffs, like the ones further north near Svörtuloft Lighthouse, are home to thousands of nesting birds.
Arnarstapi
Arnarstapi is one place in Snaefellsnes where you should definitely spend a decent amount of time walking around. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping views of the coastline, fascinating rock formations, and a picturesque little town set against the backdrop of Snæfellsjökull, the glacier-topped volcano at the tip of the peninsula. Be sure to check out Gatklettur, the famous stone arch that juts out into the Atlantic, and the Stone Bridge, a natural rock bridge on the cliffside. If you decide to pose for a photo on the Stone Bridge, be very careful, because it’s kind of narrow!
Búðakirkja
Búðakirkja, Icelandic for black church, is another iconic site in Snaefellsnes. The church community goes back to the early 1700s and the current black wooden building was built in the mid-1800s. Set against a sweeping, dramatic landscape of snow-capped mountains, Búðakirkja is a place you won’t want to miss.
