Snaefellsnes
Private Day Tour from Reykjavik
Often called “Iceland in a nutshell” the Snaefellsnes peninsula is known for its diversity of landcape. Snaefellsjokull, a glacier-covered volcano, is one of the best known sight in Iceland, as the setting on Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth, and is known for its mystic powers. Other sights include the old timber church at Budir, majestic mountains and coastal cliffs. In the summer there’s an abundance of birds that make their nests at Snaefellsnes.
Driving north out of Reykjavik you go through the town of Borganes from where you head west to the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Travelling along the south coast of the peninsula you have a breathtaking view of majestic mountains on one hand and the coastline on the other.
You stop at the Olkelda, a spring where clean carbonized water flows from the ground and you can enjoy a sip. A short drive from the Olkelda is Budir where you visit an old and beautiful timber church. Built in its original form, the church has an antique altar, clock and candlesticks, the oldest dating back from 1672.
At Arnastapi you head to the ocean and enjoy the phenomenal view of the black costal cliffs and Gatklettur cliff, which has a hole in the middle of it (gat means hole). There is an abundance of birdlife at Arnarstapi in the summer, including kittiwakes, great black-backed bird, terns, eider ducks and red-necked phalarope. Seals are often seen swimming just off shore, and we’ve even seen orcas just off the harbor. You have the option of hiking from Arnarstapi to Hellnar, a very beautiful route which takes you along the ocean in this protected nature reserve.
You then head into Snaefellsjokull nature reserve. Snaefellsjokull is a glacier on top of a dormant volcano and is known for its amazing mystic powers. Two novels have put Snaefellsjokull on the map; Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth and Halldor Laxness’ Christianity Under the Glacier. In the national park your driver guide will take you along hiking paths to explore and enjoy the amazing view of the glacier.
Traveling along the north coast of the peninsula you stop at the fishing village of Stykkisholmur. There are number of old houses built in Danish style in the village and a very good harbor. You take a short walk to the lighthouse, from where you have a spectacular view of Breidafjordur Bay and the countless islands that lie just off shore. You return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon and your driver guide drops you off at your hotel.
Snaefellsjokull glacier
Djupalon
Arnarstapi
Hellnar
Olkelda (natural mineral water spring)
Magical visit
A truly spectacular vacation. Einar was a fantastic guide. His xl Jeep took us to places you would not normally get to go. Most times we were the only people there. It made for a magical experience. Told us history of Iceland recent and past as well as the folklore of the places we visited. We were lucky to have him as our guide.
The tour company helped us get the best out of our short stay. Hoping to get back there again as there is so much more to explore. Thank you Hawk, Einar and the tour staff we did not get meet for memorable trip.
edana2, Hauppauge, NY
(6 contributions on Tripadvisor)
Written April 23, 2023
Tour details
Available: Every day.
Duration: 8 – 10 hours.
Departures: 9 am or at your request.
Free hotel pick up in Reykjavik.
Not included: Lunch and refreshments.
ISK 225500 in a Sedan
ISK 269900 in a mini-van
ISK 269900 in a Super-Jeep
ISK 369900 in a XL Super-Truck
Photos from
Snaefellsnes
