Some places on earth feel like you can find all the beauty of a country in a single region. For Iceland, that’s undoubtedly the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Here you’ll find everything that makes Iceland so special: rugged cliffs, lava fields, black beaches, glaciers, horses, and charming fishing villages.
And best of all? It’s much quieter there than the famous south coast. We immediately fell in love with Snæfellsnes during our Iceland tour, and it became one of our favorite regions.
In this article, we share the most beautiful sights (including Kirkjufell), the best things to do, and practical tips to make your visit to Snæfellsnes unforgettable, including our top tips for your itinerary.
Practical tips for visiting Snaefellsnes
Short on time? We’ve gathered some quick tips here to help you plan your trip to Snæfellsnes. We’ll cover all of these in more detail later in this article.
- Best time to visit Snæfellsnes: May, June, September, and October, as the weather is more pleasant and the crowds are less. November to February is ideal for the Northern Lights. But you can visit Snæfellsnes year-round.
- How to reach Snæfellsnes: From Reykjavik, it’s only a two-hour drive to the Snæfellsnes peninsula by following the Ring Road (Route 1) north and then turning onto Route 54 west. If you don’t have your own transportation, you can also book an organized tour from Reykjavik.
- Getting around Snaefellsnes: You can only reach the most beautiful spots by private transport (unless you book a tour). We recommend renting a car with DiscoverCars or traveling through Iceland by campervan (as we did with CampEasy). The roads are good, but fill up your tank regularly, as gas stations are scarce in the west.
- Where to stay in Snaefellsnes: Stykkishólmur is a nice town if you want more amenities (for example, at Hotel Egilsen), but there are also beautiful accommodations in nature, such as Helgafell Bungalows and Kambur Cottages (in the far west).
- Most beautiful sights in Snaefellsnes: Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall, Stykkishólmur, Svörtuloft lighthouse, Ingjaldshólskirkja, Snaefellsjökull National Park, Djúpalónssandur, Búðir
- Fun activities in Snaefellsnes: Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour, Whale Watching Tour from Olafsvík, Kayaking Adventure around Kirkjufell Mountain
- Stay connected: With an eSim for Iceland (with a 5% discount) you can stay connected everywhere with unlimited data.
- Budget tip: You can reduce transaction fees, for example, for withdrawing money or paying at a restaurant, by using a Wise account linked to a debit card. You can apply for a free Wise debit card here.
What to do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Admire Kirkjufell, the iconic mountain
This is undoubtedly the most iconic and photographed spot on Snæfellsnes. There’s much more to see on the peninsula, but many people come primarily for this famous mountain. Kirkjufell, near the village of Grundarfjörður, even appears in Game of Thrones.
You’ll recognize it immediately: the perfectly formed mountain (literally “church mountain,” because with a little imagination, it resembles a church) with its waterfall in the foreground. The view is especially magical at sunset (or under the midnight sun!).
As you can see in the photos, we were here in winter. In summer, the waterfall flows and the mountain is a beautiful green
TIP: Come early in the morning or later in the evening. It can get very busy with tour groups, and you might have it almost entirely to yourself. Stay in Grundarfjörður if you want to stay nearby.
Visit the charming harbour town of Stykkishólmur
On the northern side of the peninsula lies Stykkishólmur, a colorful fishing village known for its picturesque harbor. Here you can enjoy fresh fish, visit museums, or take the Baldur ferry to Flatey and the Westfjords.
Be sure to take a walk to the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse, one of those typical orange lighthouses, from where you have fantastic views.
TIP: This town is the ideal place to stay if you’re looking to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There are lovely accommodations in the town center, as well as more secluded options in the countryside (see below). From here, you can easily take a full tour of the peninsula in one day.
Discover Snaefellsjökull National Park
The westernmost point of the peninsula is dominated by the Snæfellsjökull glacier, a dormant volcano covered in ice. This location inspired Jules Verne’s novel “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” The landscape is otherworldly: lava fields, caves, and bizarre rock formations alternate.
Many of the most beautiful sights on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are located in Snæfellsjökull National Park (one of Iceland’s three national parks). We’ll highlight a few of our favorites in the following sections, but here’s a list of other highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- Hidden Waterfalls: There are some beautiful waterfalls on the Snæfellsness Peninsula, many of which are relatively unknown. If you have time, be sure to visit Selvallafoss, Svödufoss, Grundarfoss, Bæjarfoss, Bjarnarfoss, and Klukkufoss.
- Berserkjahraun Lava Field: Drive on the gravel path through the lava field (can be done with a normal car, but quite bumpy).
- Skarðsvík Beach: One of Iceland’s few beautiful golden sand beaches, surrounded by black cliffs. We even went kayaking here!
- Saxhóll Crater: You can hike to the top of the crater via an iron staircase. From the top, you’ll have a magnificent view!
- Djúpalónssandur Beach: It feels like entering another world as you descend to the black sand beach, surrounded by lava rock formations. A British fishing vessel once washed ashore here, and its remains remain. The atmosphere is raw and impressive, especially when the mist hangs over the coast. There are several hiking trails from the parking lot. Highly recommended!
- Vatnshellir Cave: A unique experience, as you descend into an underground world of lava. Book your guided tour in advance (the only way to visit) as it can fill up quickly.
- Lóndrangar: Another stunning viewpoint overlooking basalt rock formations and the rugged Icelandic coast! The Malarrif Lighthouse is also nearby.
- Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge: Beautiful gorge, just a short walk from the car park.
TIP: Bring warm and waterproof clothing, even in summer. The weather in Iceland changes faster than your camera can focus. Check out our article on what to wear in Iceland + packing list for more information.
Drive to Ingjaldshólskirkja
Amidst the rugged landscape of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula stands the picturesque Ingjaldshólskirkja, a white church with a red roof that proudly overlooks lava fields and the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier in the background. It’s one of those beautiful hidden spots in Iceland that shouldn’t be missed, especially if you’re a photography enthusiast.
The current church dates from 1903 and is considered the oldest concrete church in the country. Legend has it that Christopher Columbus and his crew stayed here before embarking on their westward voyage, making the site even more mysterious.
TIP: Drive a short distance up the hill opposite the church for the perfect picture, with the road leading to the church and the glacier in the background. The light here is especially magical in clear weather and around sunset.
Look for the Svörtuloft lighthouse
At the westernmost tip of Snæfellsnes, you’ll find the Svörtuloft Lighthouse, a bright orange tower that stands out beautifully against the black lava landscape and the deep blue ocean. There’s also the Öndverðarnes Lighthouse, but we found it less interesting once you’ve seen it.
The name Svörtuloft literally means “black sky” or “black heaven,” which perfectly suits the dramatic cliffs on which the lighthouse stands. The drive there, along a bumpy gravel road, is an adventure in itself.
The contrast between the orange lighthouse and the surrounding wilderness is spectacular, a photographer’s dream. Take your time to walk along the cliffs and admire the view. On clear days, you can even see all the way to the Westfjords!
Hike between Hellnar and Arnarstapi
One of the most beautiful hikes on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and perhaps the most beautiful coastal hike in Iceland, runs between the picturesque villages of Hellnar and Arnarstapi. The trail winds along the rugged coastline, where waves crash against dramatic cliffs and bizarre basalt formations shape the landscape.
Along the walk, you’ll encounter natural arches, impressive cliffs, and countless seabirds. The trail is well-maintained and takes about a day, depending on how often you stop to take photos or simply enjoy the view.
Tip: During the summer months you can enjoy a coffee or home-cooked lunch on the terrace of the cozy café Fjöruhúsið in Hellnar.
Take a picture of the black church in Búðir
In the south lies the hamlet of Búðir, known for its solitary and photogenic black church (Búðakirkja), which contrasts beautifully with the rugged lava landscape and mountains of Snæfellsjökull National Park.
It’s a place that feels both serene and powerful. Ideal for photography or a quiet moment to reflect on Iceland’s breathtaking beauty.
Unfortunately, when we were there, we didn’t get to admire this special spot up close. It was the end of our tour of Snæfellsnes, and just at that moment, a violent storm swept across the peninsula. The wind howled, the rain pounded against the windows, and we decided, with a heavy heart, to keep driving. A good reason to return to Iceland someday!
Horse riding in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
One of the most enjoyable activities in Iceland is riding the iconic Icelandic horses. And on Snæfellsnes, there’s almost no better way to experience the rugged beauty than on horseback. They’ll take you to places you’d never reach by car. Over lava fields, along black beaches, and with views of the snow-capped Snæfellsjökull glacier: riding here feels like riding through a movie set.
There are several stables where you can book rides, such as Stóri-Kambur Horse Rental between Hellnar and Arnarstapi, or Lýsuhóll Farm in the south of Snæfellsnes. Both beginners and experienced riders are welcome, and rides range from an hour to full-day excursions.
Although we didn’t take a trip here ourselves (although we did on Iceland’s south coast), we heard from other travelers that a trip here is an unforgettable experience. The tranquility, the nature, and the bond with the animals make it truly special.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula Itinerary + Map
How many days do you need for Snaefellsnes?
While you can drive around the peninsula in one day (about 300 km), we recommend staying at least two to three days. This gives you time to do more hiking, take photos, visit some lesser-known sights, and simply enjoy yourself.
Planning to drive the entire Ring Road around Iceland? Be sure to schedule at least a full day on Snæfellsnes. This peninsula is truly one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in the country, and you won’t want to miss this part of Iceland.
If it’s your first visit to Iceland and you only have a few days, we recommend focusing on Reykjavik and Iceland’s south coast. However, if you have an extra day to spare, a trip to Snæfellsnes is definitely worth it! Especially since it’s relatively close to the capital and easily accessible by car (only a two-hour drive).
Useful tips for your Snaefellsness trip
- Leave early, especially in summer, to avoid the crowds and make the most of the light.
- Be prepared for all types of weather. At Snaefellsnes you can experience sun, rain and wind within one hour.
- At Snaefellsnes you can experience sun, rain and wind within one hour.
- Make sure you have enough fuel, as there are few gas stations along the way.
- Photo opportunities not to be missed: Arnarstapi, Svörtuloft, Kirkjufell, and Búðir.
Overview of the itinerary for 1 day in Snaefellsnes
In summer, daylight lasts much longer, allowing you to visit many more sights in Snæfellsness in a single day. In winter, be prepared to have less time, and you’ll need a second day if you want to see as much as possible.
We recommend staying overnight in Stykkisholmur (or the surrounding area) and leaving from there early in the morning.
Then start your tour of the Snæfellsnes peninsula counterclockwise. This way, you can get to Kirkjufell very early and enjoy this beautiful place without the large tour groups from Reykjavik.
What you can’t miss for your 1-day itinerary in Snaefellsnes (in this order):
- Stykkishólmur and the Súgandisey lighthouse
- Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss
- Svödufoss
- Ingjaldshólskirkja
- Skarðsvík beach
- Svörtuloft lighthouse
- Saxholl crater
- Djúpalónssandur beach
- Vatnshellir lava cave (book your tour in advance)
- Londrangar viewpoint
- Hike from Hellnar to Arnarstapi
- Rauðfeldsgjá ravine
- Búðakirkja
- Bjarnarfoss
Have more time? Then hike to some of the beautiful hidden waterfalls, visit the small towns, go whale watching from Olafsvík, or kayak around Kirkjufell Mountain. Admiring Kirkjufell at sunset is also a fantastic experience (though you probably won’t be alone).
Our favorite restaurants in Snaefellsnes
Dining on the Snæfellsnes peninsula is an experience in itself. Don’t expect big chains or fancy fine dining, but rather charming local spots where you can warm up after a day of exploring the natural beauty with a bowl of soup, fresh fish, or a good glass of wine.
There aren’t a huge variety of restaurants, but here are a few of our favorite spots:
- Sjávarpakkhúsið (Stykkishólmur): In the charming harbor town of Stykkishólmur, you’ll find this atmospheric spot, where they serve delicious fish dishes in a cozy, wooden interior. Be sure to try the fish stew or the fresh mussels. It’s also a great place to enjoy a drink at the bar while watching the fishing boats return to the harbor.
- Fjöruhúsið Café (Hellnar): As mentioned, this is a very cozy café with one of the most beautiful views on the peninsula. Perfect for a break after the hike between Hellnar and Arnarstapi. Their fish soup is legendary, and with a piece of fresh bread, it makes the perfect lunch.
- Bjargarsteinn Mathús (Grundarfjörður): Overlooking the famous Kirkjufell mountain, this is one of the best restaurants in Snæfellsnes. The atmosphere is warm and stylish, and the food is fantastic. Book in advance!
- Rjúkandi Café (Hellissandur): A cozy roadside stop, perfect for coffee, homemade pastries, or a quick lunch. They also serve delicious pizzas and local dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Where to stay in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
If you only have one day, we recommend staying in Stykkishólmur or Grundarfjörður, where there are more amenities and restaurants. From there, you can easily circle the peninsula and then continue to your next destination.
For a more unique stay, stay closer to the western tip, where you’ll be in the national park and close to many of Snæfellsnes’s most beautiful sights.
TIP: The peninsula is easily accessible, but after sunset it can feel a bit more remote. Consider extra travel time when planning your accommodation. Book on time! Especially during peak season, the best spots fill up quickly. Popular hotels often require booking 3–6 months in advance.
Here are some of our favorite places to stay:
- Hotel Egilsen (Stykkishólmur): cozy traditional hotel, with nice rooms and a delicious breakfast.
- Helgafell Bungalows (Stykkishólmur): These beautiful bungalows are perfectly located, quietly situated by the lake, but not far from the city.
- Kambur Cottages (Snaefellbaer): Comfortable cottages surrounded by nature with absolutely stunning views.
Our honest opinion about the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
For us, Snaefellsnes was truly one of those places that leaves you speechless, and definitely one of our favorite regions of Iceland. Snaefellsnes is raw, diverse, and breathtaking. It’s a place where you truly feel like you’re in Iceland.
What we especially appreciated is that it’s much quieter than the bustling south coast. While you’ll encounter plenty of tourists at Kirkjufell, you often feel almost alone elsewhere. This gives you the space to truly enjoy the surroundings and take photos without a busload of people blocking your shot.
Keep in mind that the peninsula can be rugged and unpredictable. The weather can change quickly, sometimes forcing you to change your plans (like we did, which meant we missed the church in Búðir). And in the evenings, it feels deserted, so you’ll want to get back to your cozy accommodations.
In short, we give this peninsula a 10/10 and we recommend it to anyone who wants to experience Iceland as it was meant to be: pure, quiet and magical.
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