Day 8: An In-Depth Exploration of Snæfellsnes
On the eighth day of your Icelandic adventure, prepare to delve into the captivating Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This region, often dubbed ‘Iceland in Miniature,’ showcases an incredible variety of landscapes that epitomize the country’s natural beauty.
Before embarking on your journey from Stykkishólmur, consider a boat tour through the enchanting waters of Breiðafjörður Bay, teeming with vibrant bird and marine life. Some tours even offer the chance to fish, providing you with a fresh catch for breakfast.
As you continue westward, you’ll arrive at the charming village of Bjanarhöfn, renowned for its quirky shark museum. Contrary to what one might expect, this institution does not focus on these fascinating predators, but rather on the Icelandic tradition of catching, fermenting, and preparing shark—most famously served as the national dish, hákarl.
However, the term ‘delicacy’ is open to interpretation; hákarl is infamous for its strong smell and acquired taste. Thankfully, the museum offers a traditional shot of Brennivín to help mitigate the experience, should you be brave enough to try it.
After this intriguing—and somewhat challenging—glimpse into Icelandic culinary practices, you’ll venture toward one of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks. Kirkjufell, known as ‘the Church Mountain,’ rises dramatically beside the picturesque Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Often celebrated as the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell’s striking shape and varying colors create a stunning backdrop that photographers flock to year-round.
Take a brief hike around Kirkjufell for varied perspectives before continuing your journey into Snæfellsjökull National Park at the peninsula’s western tip. This breathtaking park centers around the twin-peaked glacier and volcano, Snæfellsjökull, a natural wonder that has inspired countless artists and writers.
The glacier stands not just as a visual marvel but also as the backdrop for significant literary works. Nobel laureate Halldór Laxness set his novel ‘Under the Glacier’ against this stunning landscape, while Jules Verne’s ‘A Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ features it as the starting point for its subterranean adventures.
The park is also home to Lóndrangar, a remarkable basalt plug that remains from an ancient volcanic crater. Accessible via a leisurely hike, it’s a hotspot for seabird watching, drawing nature enthusiasts from far and wide.
As you round the peninsula and exit the national park, you’ll pass through the historic yet nearly deserted hamlet of Hellnar and the vibrant village of Arnarstapi, an ideal spot for lunch. If your visit falls during the summer months, consider a short jaunt north to explore Sönghellir, a captivating lava tunnel famous for its stunning acoustics.
Following your lunch break, embark on a hike to Rauðfeldsgjá gorge, a striking fissure in the mountainside. While casual hikers can admire a tranquil waterfall, those equipped with sturdy boots and waterproof attire can venture further into the gorge for a dose of adventure.
Continuing eastward along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, you’ll encounter the isolated yet picturesque church in Buðir, set against a backdrop of solitude before reaching the majestic Bjarnafoss waterfall, which is accessible via an enjoyable hike.
A notable stop is Ytri Tunga Beach, where a colony of seals can often be seen sunbathing on rocks just offshore. As you drive further east, keep an eye out for the mesmerizing, geometric basalt columns of Gerðuberg, a testament to nature’s artistry.
Your day concludes at the crater of Eldborg, where a winding staircase leads to captivating panoramas. Take a moment to bask in the views before settling in for the night in one of the quaint Snæfellsnes villages or in Reykholt or Borgarnes, ensuring you’re well-positioned for the excitement of your penultimate day.
Day 9: Discovering West Iceland
On day nine, immerse yourself in the wonders of western Iceland. This region boasts two major settlements, each steeped in history and rich culture.
Reykholt, a picturesque village, features charming architecture and a beautiful church with a striking red steeple. Notably, it was once home to Snorri Sturluson, one of medieval Iceland’s most significant writers and historians. Without his contributions, our knowledge of Northern European monarchies and Old Norse myths would be scant; he penned the Edda, a cornerstone of this ancient belief system preserved largely through oral tradition.
Snorri’s life was as captivating as his literary legacy, intertwined with the tumult of civil war in Iceland. You can delve into his fascinating story at the Snorrastofa Research Centre in Reykholt.
Meanwhile, Borgarnes, one of Iceland’s earliest settlements, hosts the Icelandic Settlement Centre. This engaging museum has two key exhibitions: one narrating the island’s settlement history from its initial inhabitants to the establishment of the Alþing, or National Assembly, in 930 AD, and another that explores the popular tale of Egill’s Saga, shedding light on early heroes, poets, and revealing much about Icelandic culture.
Yet, the cultural sights are merely a starting point; West Iceland is home to many natural wonders waiting to be explored.
Visit Deildartunguhver, the highest-flowing hot spring in Europe, which bubbles and steams as it pushes gallons of nearly boiling water from the earth’s depths. Nearby, the Krauma Spa offers a chance to unwind and soak in the healing waters.
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Just a short drive away, discover two stunning waterfalls, Barnafoss and Hraunfossar, which are in close proximity yet vastly different in character. Barnafoss rushes tumultuously through a narrow canyon, while Hraunfossar spreads gently across an expansive lava plateau.
West Iceland also features the mesmerizing Hvalfjörður, or Whale Fjord. Here, you can embark on a hike to Glýmur, Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall. Do tread carefully; although the path is serene, it does require crossing a river on a rather precarious log bridge.
After soaking in these natural spectacles, return to Reykjavík and celebrate the culmination of your journey with a drink in one of the city’s many eclectic bars.
Day 10: Farewell to Iceland
On your final day in Iceland, the activities you choose will hinge on your departure schedule. If you have an evening flight, consider caving in Leiðarendi, a lava tube just outside the capital, or embark on a whale-watching adventure from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Alternatively, you might opt for a rejuvenating dip at the iconic Blue Lagoon, soaking in its geothermally heated wonders one last time.
If time is tight, take a leisurely stroll down Reykjavík’s main street, Laugavegur, to browse for that perfect souvenir. Otherwise, explore the city’s major landmarks, such as the stunning Hallgrímskirkja church, the impressive Harpa Concert Hall, or the imaginative Sun Voyager sculpture.
Be sure to arrive at Keflavík airport two hours before your flight departs and relish in fond memories of your incredible ten days in Iceland.
