Roadtrip: THE SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA IN 24 HOURS

Introduction 🦋

Step into the enchanting realm of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a microcosm that beautifully distills the essence of Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes. Nestled along the western coast, this peninsula stands as a condensed showcase of the island's diverse wonders, featuring a tapestry of volcanoes, glaciers, craters, and expansive lava fields that collectively craft a breathtaking masterpiece.

I did this roadtrip in May 2020 during my last day in Iceland after almost 3 months spent here as an au pair. I had 24 Hours left to explore parts of Iceland so I rent a car at Blue Car Rental in Reykjavik.

Car rental in Iceland - Rent a car at KEF airport or in Reykjavik

www.bluecarrental.is

Places to visit

📍 BORGARNES

This little town is located in the north of Reykjavik (1 hour drive) is home to nice little shops selling local products: wool jumpers aka Lopi, salt with local berries, volcanic stone soap… really nice souvenirs from Iceland to bring back to your loved once.

The settlement center is a museum recounting the inception of Iceland where you'll learn about the most renowned heroes from the Icelandic Sagas, Egil Skalla-Grimsson. Additionally, the site features a charming licensed restaurant, a café, and a souvenir shop. 

Landnámssetur Íslands | Settlement Center

www.landnam.is

Beginning of the roadtrip

📍Ytri Tunga: the seal beach 🦭

Ytri Tunga beach is an incredible place to observe seals in their natural habitat, especially between May and June. When the sea goes down they rest on the rocks. But be careful, don't get too close to not disturb them. 🫶🏻

📍 Budakirkja

The beautiful Budakirkja church - known for its unique black color - stands here in a wonderful contrasting landscape. It has been relocated to Búðir in 1847. Churches like Búðakirkja played a crucial role in maintaining and spreading the Christian faith.

📍 Arnarstapi & Stapafell

The small fishing village of Arnarstapi is really cute with its basalt columns offering a view on the Atlantic and hiking trails leading to the Gatklettur Arch, Hellnar or also to the Snæfellsjökull National Park.

It is located near the Stapafell mountain which is characterized as a palagonite mountain. Palagonite is a type of volcanic rock formed from the interaction of lava and ice during volcanic eruptions.

📍 Bjarnafoss waterfall

Bjarnarfoss is located near the small village of Búðardalur and is 80 meters high. You'll have to walk few minutes to reach it. It literally means "Bear's Waterfall" in association with stories and legends around this spot. 

📍 Londragar

The basalt cliffs of Lóndrangar can be spotted from afar because of their imposing size. They result from volcanic activity. They are around 75 meters high and offer photogenic scene.

📍 Malarrif Lighthouse

This rocket-shape lighthouse provides an amazing view on the peninsula and birds which live around here.

📍 Saxholl crater and the Snæfellsjökull glacier 

You'll have to take a short hike to reach the top of this volcanic crater formed 3000 years ago during a volcanic eruption. It offers a breathtaking view on the peninsula with a moon-like landscape and a perfect view on the Snæfellsjökull glacier if the weather is clear.

📍 Hólahólar Crater

How amazing is it to drive inside a crater with an amphitheater shape? 

📍 Hellissandur

Hellissandur is a cute little city full of art. International artists came to paint 30 big mural placed in various locations all over the town. It is also known for its old charming houses and the church Ingjaldshólskirkja.

📍 Olafsvik

Olafsvik is a cute little city where you can find this church with a special design.

📍 Kirkufjell

The Kirkufjell mountain is located near the town of Grundarfjörður. The best view is from against the backdrop of Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall in the foreground. It is also a famous spot for being featured in the series "Game of Thrones".

Few advices ✨

🏨 Although it is possible to tour the peninsula in one day, I would advise you to spend 2 days and one night if you really want to explore all the natural jewels of the peninsula and do some hiking.

🚙 Always take the most complete insurance for your car rental, this is valid for all your trips in Iceland with the climatic conditions that we know (wind, snow, stones...) damages of the vehicle body are highly possible.