The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is just a two-hour drive from Reykjavík, making it a popular choice for a day trip. However, if your schedule allows, I highly recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate all the stunning sights and attractions this area has to offer. From stunning waterfalls and rugged coastlines to charming villages and the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier, there’s so much to explore and experience in this area!
Other resources to help you plan the perfect trip to Iceland!
- 10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Iceland: Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip
- How Much a 2 Week Trip to Iceland Really Costs
- Is 2 Days Enough Time to Explore the Golden Circle?
- Vik, Iceland: A Complete Travel Checklist for 2024
- Ultimate Guide to Vatnajökull National Park: Must-See Sights and Activities
- Exploring East Iceland: Hiking, Hot Springs, and Hidden Gems
- Top 5 Sights In North Iceland You Can’t Miss
- If you are planning a trip to Iceland, I recommend booking your rental car through Go Rental and use my code Caitlyn5 for 5% off your car!
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Getting to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Getting around the peninsula is relatively easy, it is mainly just a loop. However some of road 54 can be gravel. If you are coming into the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from the North, you will be taking more gravel roads. If you come in to Snæfellsnes Peninsula from Reyvakvik, most, if not all, of the road there will be paved.
Kirkjufell/Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufell is a popular mountain on the Snæfellsnes peninsula because of its unique peak, making it a striking landmark. You can see this mountain from various angles from the surrounding towns, but a good view of it is from Kirkjufellsfoss.
There is a parking lot near Kirkjufellsfoss that has a small parking fee. From there follow the short trail across the bridge and to the falls. From here you’ll have a stunning view of the waterfall with the mountain in the background!
Bæjarfoss
Bæjarfoss is a breathtaking 130-foot waterfall located in the town of Ólafsvík. When you arrive, you’ll find a big parking lot with a business on the left. Try to park on the right side so you are closer to the trail. From there, you can take a short trail to see the waterfall. The trail does cross the river, but there are rocks you can use to get across. If you want to get even closer to the falls, just follow the trail and make your way up the river.
Just across the road from the waterfall is the Ólafsvíkurkirkja church with a rainbow road in front. You can walk there from the waterfall or drive over and park on the street.
Svöðufoss
Svöðufoss is a stunning waterfall framed by striking basalt columns, making it a must-see when you’re in the area. To get there, you’ll drive about 5 minutes down a gravel road to reach the parking lot. From the parking lot, it’s an easy walk along a well-maintained, flat path to the falls. From the viewing platform, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. The trail is just 0.75 miles round trip, so it won’t take long to complete. Parking is free, though there are no restrooms available.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
The Snæfellsjökull National Park is located on the western most part of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. The National Park is home to the Snæfellsjökul which is topped with a small icecap. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to see this glacier from far away. When we visited, visibility was very low so we did not get to see it!
Stop by the Visitor’s Center before heading in for information on trails and what to do in the park. At the visitor center you’ll find bathrooms and a restaurant. There is no fee to visit the national park. While in the park, checkout a few of these sights below!
Saxhóll Crater
This Crater is around 3000-4000 years old and is located right after the park’s entrance. You can walk up to the top of the cater by taking the stairs that wind its way up the side of the crater. On a clear day you’ll be able to see the ocean, Snæfellsjökull glacier, and the surrounding lava fields.
Djúpalónssandur
From the parking lot, you have a few trail options. I suggest taking the short trail to the beach overlook first, then following the other trail down to the beach. The path down is magical, winding between fascinating rock formations. Along the trail, you’ll also find three lifting stones, each heavier than the last, historically used by fishermen to test their strength before heading out to sea. At the beach, you might spot remnants from the 1948 shipwreck. The trail does loop around so you don’t have to take the same path back up.
Djúpalónssandur is a captivating black sand beach, renowned for its unique rock formations, including sea stacks, basalt columns, and arches. Parking can be limited and tight, so I recommend arriving early if possible. While there are no bathrooms at the main parking area, you’ll find some at the beginning of the road leading to the lot, which also serves as an overflow parking area. Note that these bathrooms are only open during the summer and are not accessible in winter.
Once on the beach, be cautious and avoid getting too close to the water. The waves can be powerful and unpredictable, so it’s never safe to turn your back on the ocean.
Lóndrangar
Another spectacular coastal spot is Lóndrangar, featuring two dramatic rock formations that stand 246 feet and 200 feet tall. These are remnants of the once large crater that has eroded over the years. You can admire these impressive structures from the road or get a closer look by exploring the walking trails in the area. The trails offer various viewpoints and allow you to experience the rugged beauty of the coastline up close.
Hellnar View Point
Another spot along the coast with dramatic coastline, the sparkling blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The viewpoint is located in the small fishing village of Hellnar, where you can get a glimpse of traditional Icelandic architecture.
Arnarstapi
Arnarstapi is a charming fishing village that was once a bustling trade post and is now a popular destination for tourists. The area offers scenic coastal trails leading to multiple viewing points. Along the coast, you’ll likely spot numerous Arctic terns nesting on the cliffs and flying around.One of my favorite views here is of the Gatklettur arch, a distinctive rock formation that resembles two animals kissing.
The village also has a few gift shops, cafes, and restaurants, though most are only open seasonally and typically start welcoming visitors around June. If you plan on visiting before this, don’t worry, we did find a few restaurants that were open in mid May.
Búðakirkja Black Church
Búðakirkja is a Black Church that stands out against the vast lava fields with the ocean in the background. The original church that stood in its spot was built in 1703, however it did not stand up against the harsh elements and had to be rebuilt in 1987. The ink black color makes this church stand out against the landscape and makes it the focus point of the area. Búðakirkja is a functional church that holds service but is not open for the public to enter.
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula
This area shouldn’t be skipped when visiting Iceland! Whether you are traveling the whole ring or making Reykjavík your home base, a trip to Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the perfect addition to your Iceland itinerary. Its diverse landscapes and unique attractions offer something for every traveler, making it a must-see destination. Don’t miss out on exploring this incredible region!
