After the Golden Circle, we dedicate our second day to the (at least partial) discovery of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, one of the most magical places in Iceland.

Stories of the might and mystical energy of Snæfellsjökull glacier have been around for centuries which is why Jules Verne chose it as the gateway to the center of the earth in his novel ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’.

Often referred to as “mini-Iceland,” the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a roundup of all the varied landscapes and geological wonders that Iceland has to offer. So if like us you have limited time on your trip to Iceland, visiting Snaefellsnes will give you a great taste of the country and offer some unforgettable sights.

In our case, the departure was scheduled in the early morning from Rejkyavik for a tour lasting 11 hours, many of which in the dark and therefore we necessarily had to stay in a very tight and precise time frame. However, this did not prevent us from being able to see many breathtaking views, leaving some pending for the future.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

The peculiarity that makes this waterfall known is the small and humid path that allows you to reach a rather unusual position of the waterfall: in fact it is possible to enter the waterfall and see it from inside, behind the water jump. Unfortunately in our case the path was completely frozen and following it involved a very high risk of falling, but the panorama was absolutely magnificent.
The jump of about 60 meters plunges into a small lake which is always surrounded by a vast blanket of humidity which often generates small rainbows.

Mount Kirkjufell

Probably the most photographed in all of Iceland thanks to the fact that Game of Thrones was filmed here.
This symmetrical mountain rises 463m above the shoreline, there are many beaches in the area and a beautiful trail. If time permits, it is possible to make a challenging climb to the top of the mountain where, incredibly, fish fossils are found. However, this activity is only recommended for experienced hikers as the trail is very steep and exposed.
Nearby don’t miss the beautiful Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, a perfect place for a stop.

Saxholl crater

Only open from February to November, Saxholl is a 100m high volcanic crater. A flight of steps takes you to the top and you are rewarded with breathtaking views from this 3000 year old feat of nature.

Church of Búðir

Búðir ​​is a small area in the lava fields of Búðarhraun, it is an important site in terms of the history of trade and industry in Iceland. The most remarkable building in this area is the ancient and beautiful Búðarkirkja, the church of Búðir.

Arnarstapi and Hellnar fishing villages

Arnarstapi and Hellnar are two old fishing villages on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Arnarstapi was an important trading port in the early 18th century.
Today there are not many families who live in Arnarstapi all year round but in the summer the place is teeming with birds and people, there are many summer houses in the area. These villages are surrounded by basalt columns, the cracks and hollows in the earth add to the beauty, and small fishing boats set sail from the small port making this place truly enchanting.
As you walk west along the coast from the harbour, you will see dramatic cliffs, gorges, rock formations and caves.

Practical advice

Also in this case for the excursion we relied on GetYourGuide to be sure of maximizing the limited time available.
As far as clothing is concerned, in addition to the low temperatures you must consider garments that protect you from the incessant wind which, especially in some points (for example Mount Kirkjufell or the Saxholl crater) can also make movement difficult.
In our case, The North Face garments proved to be perfect (Futurelight Triclimate jacket and intermediate layer of the Thermoball jacket).