Snæfellsnes & Kirkjufell

The day begins with a scenic drive north through Borgarnes, the main town of western Iceland, before continuing west onto the stunning and colorful landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The route offers breathtaking views of the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and leads to the newly designated national park at the western tip of the peninsula. Here, the magnificent Snaefellsjokull glacier rises above the coastline, surrounded by dramatic beaches and cliffs. This glacier was made famous by the novel Journey to the Center of the Earth by French author Jules Verne. Along the way, we stop at Budir, once a thriving trading post, now known for its historic charm and the elegant Budir Hotel, where we pause for a relaxing coffee break.

Next, we explore the picturesque village of Arnarstapi, renowned for its striking sea cliffs and panoramic ocean views. A scenic walk connects Arnarstapi to Hellnar, a small coastal settlement nestled beneath the glacier. This area is rich with birdlife and natural beauty, offering visitors a true taste of Iceland’s wild charm. In the summer, we stop for lunch at the Fjoruhusid Cafe near the beach, where the sound of seabirds fills the air. Continuing to Djupalonssandur, we spend some peaceful time on its black sand beach, surrounded by rugged rock formations and sea views. The final stop is Olafsvik, a traditional fishing village on the northern coast, before returning to Reykjavik, completing a day filled with nature, history, and Icelandic charm.