10 Things to Do in Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Snæfellsness Peninsula, or “Iceland in Miniature”, has all of Iceland’s geological wonders from majestic waterfalls, black sand beaches, lava fields, mountains, a crater, and a national park. These were some of our favorite days in Iceland, despite the rain and 30mph winds. If we only had one week in Iceland, Snæfellsnes would definitely be on our list. We tried to see as much as we could in time we were there, and we compiled a list of our absolute favorite attractions. Because everything is in such close proximity in the peninsula, you can see all it in only two days.
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1. Kirkjufell Mountain: This mountain is one of the most photographed attractions in the country. You can actually hike all of the way to the top, but from what I have read, it is a challenging climb and can be dangerous. Most people prefer just to view it from the nearby waterfall and take the iconic photograph. Kirkjufell is located in the north of the peninsula and the parking lot is across the street, near Kirkjufellfoss.
2. Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge: This gorge is between the town of Arnastapi and Búðir off of the main road in the peninsula. After parking in the lot, it is only a short hike to the opening of the gorge. Once inside the cavern you will see a small stream running through the gorge.
3. Djúpalónssandur Beach: A black sand beach with some walking trails, lagoons, and interesting rock formations. You can also test your strength by trying to pick up several heavy boulders, a test that fisherman were required to take to see if they were qualified for the job. We also saw remnants of a 1948 British shipwreck on the beach. We spent quite a bit of time here hiking in order to see the stunning views of the coast and lava formations. This beach is located in the southwestern part of the peninsula and the parking lot is not far off of the main road.
4. Stykkishólmur: You will find this town in the very northern part of the peninsula. After we stopped for coffee at a local bakery, we went to the marina and visited the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse. It is a short and beautiful hike to the top where you can see views of the of the nearby islands as well as the town.
5. Skarðsvík Beach: This is one of Iceland’s rare golden sand beaches, as most of the beaches you will see are made of black sand. The golden sand against the black lava formations is truly stunning. This beach is located in in the northwestern part of the peninsula and is only a short way off of the main road to the parking lot.
6. Bjarnarfoss: Iceland is full of beautiful waterfalls, and Bjarnarfoss is no exception. There is a 1.3 mile out and back hike to reach the base of the waterfall, if you want to get a closer view. Bjarnarfoss is located in the southern region of the peninsula, near the town of Búðir.
7. Búðir: You will find the black wooden church of Búðakirkja in this town, dating back to the 19th century. We were most interested in the trails behind the church, which led us through a lava field and to the coast. It is a short hike from the church to the beaches, and some of the best views of our day. Búðir is located in southern Snæfellsnes and you can see the black church from the main road.
8. Öndverðarnesviti Lighthouse: Although the lighthouse is surrounded by a lava field and nice to see on its own, it really is the area around the lighthouse that we enjoyed the most. Here you will find ruins of an old fishing village, along with the ancient well, Fálki. Öndverðarnesviti is located on the northwestern coast of Snæfellsnes and not far past Skarðsvík beach. We had to take a rugged dirt road to reach the parking area, but it is accessible by 2WD. You can also take a quick drive to the other nearby lighthouse, Svörtuloft, just to the south of Öndverðarnesviti.
9. Mt. Helgafell: Mt. Helgafell means Holy Mountain in Icelandic. This mountain has a lot of historical significance and is sacred to many Icelanders. You have to pay ISK 400 to visit, which goes toward maintenance of the parking lot, trail, and WC. It is a short hike up to the top and you will find ruins dating back to the 10th century, as well as an amazing view of mountains and the bay. Mt. Helgafell was one of the first destinations we visited in the peninsula as it is located in the northeast (if you decide to start from the north). We stopped here our way to the town of Stykkishólmur.
10. Saxhóll Crater: It is a ways up to the top of the crater, but stairs have been built to make it a very gradual climb. Once up, you can look into the crater, but unlike some craters that are filled with water, this one is an empty mossy cavern. The crater is located in Snæfellsjökull National Park, but there is not an entrance fee, rather you will just past in and out of a gate, making you aware of the park’s parameters. You will find the crater in the western part of Snæfellsnes, right off of the main road.
