DAY 1

VOLCANIC CRATER, STYKKISHÓLMUR AND A BAY OF THOUSAND ISLANDS

Approx. km driven:

After landing i Keflavik, make your way towards the National Route 1 – the Ring Road – and head for Eldborg, or the Fire Castle, your first of countless attractions in Snæfellsnes. This impressive crater is situated on a short SW-NE fissure, and it is among the most symmetric and beautiful of the craters in Iceland. It rises about 60 metres above the surroundings , 200 m long and 50 m deep. The best way to approach the crater is from the parking area to its south. The walk takes about half an hour each way and visitors are kindly asked to stick to the trodden and marked paths.

Next up is Gerðuberg, a stunning wall of octagonal basalt columns, forming beautiful  geometric patterns in the cliffs. The columns are 14 meters at their highest and around 1-1.5 meters wide. The lava of Gerðuberg flowed in the Tertiary era and the site is listed as a natural heritage.

Head for Stykkishólmur, the largest town in Snæfellsnes, situated on the North side of the peninsula. Before entering the town, however, you will make a slight detour to the right – towards the Holy Mountain. That’s right, Helgafell bears a name that suits the folklore that surrounds it. 73 meters with a breathtaking panoramic view across Breiðafjordur Bay and a convenient viewing dial at its top. Legend advises anyone climbing the mountain for the first time to walk straight up without looking back or speaking and three wishes will be granted. The wishes have to be of good intent, the wisher must tell no one what he/she wished for and has to face east when making them.

Once in Stykkishólmur town you will immediately see why many consider this among the prettiest of Icelandic townships. The oldest part of town surrounds a beautiful, natural harbour and the old houses have been wonderfully preserved. Enthusiasts of architecture and design have long admired the town church, an unconventional and modern structure. Stykkishólmur is also the gateway to the innumerable islands of Breidafjordur bay, which is renowned for its natural beauty and remarkable wildlife. A seat on a cruise boat is highly recommended. Check in for the night at Fosshótel Stykkishólmur.

Attractions on the way: Eldborg, Gerðuberg, Helgafell, Breiðafjörður, Stykkishólmur.

DAY 2

GOLDEN BEACH, KIRKJUFELL MOUNTAIN, AND SNÆFELLSJÖKULL GLACIER

Approx. km driven:

As you drive westwards, counterclockwise around the peninsula, there is no shortage of interesting names in the landscape. Care to visit the Berserk Lava Field? Berserkjahraun is ever so slightly off the beaten track so you are likely to have the place to yourself. Here you can observe some bright green moss flowing over black lava formations of all sizes.

The most photographed mountain in all of Iceland is probably Kirkjufell, your next stop. The vantage points to take a decent picture of Kirkjufell are endless, as it is practically impossible to take a bad picture of the mountain. Its isolated position makes it a natural focal point for tourists and seamen alike. Surrounded by beaches, Kirkjufell has an exquisite walking trail around it as well as a more challenging climb up to the top where bird and fish fossils can actually be found. A guide is recommended for the trip to the top.

If tall structures pique your interest then stop by Hellissandur, a tiny hamlet along the way around the peninsula, because Hellissandur Longwave Radio Mast is the tallest architectural structure in Western Europe, 412 meters high or 1352 feet.

Next up is a perfect spot for a picnic. Skarðsvík beach is a beautiful little cove with golden sand, black cliffs and blue waters. It is easily accessible and provides a perfect moment of tranquility with the gentle humming of the waves.

Djúpalónssandur (the Black Lava Pearl Beach) is a beautiful place to visit, virtually like stepping into a lava wonderland. A short drive from the main road, you can leave your vehicle at the parking lot just above Djúpalónssandur. There is a short walk down Nautastígur – the Path of the Bull – where you will pass through an amazing lava field with large, incredible lava formations. There is even a peculiar rock there with a big hole in it, called Gatklettur. Looking through this hole you can see Snæfellsjökull glacier.

And now for the jackpot itself – Snæfellsjökull glacier. Many will recall it as the gateway to the center of the earth in Jules Verne’s seminal adventure, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and this 700.000 year-old stratovolcano never fails to amaze. Some will simply settle for a moment of clarity at the base of the dormant volcano, absorbing the cosmic powers many believe the mountain emits, while others might want to ascent the mountain. In summer, the saddle near the summit can be reached easily by walking, although the glacier’s crevasses must be avoided. Several tour companies run regular guided walks during the season. To reach the true summit, however, requires technical ice climbing.

Finish the day by admiring Lóndrangar (the Lagoon Stacks), uniquely-formed remnants of ancient basalt volcanic dikes sticking out from the sea. The farmers in the area traditionally never make hay on the hill, because it is said to belong to the hidden people living in the area. The Icelandic puffin lives in the cliffs of Lóndrangar, see if you can spot one or two!

Check into hotel at Hellnar for the night.

Attractions on the way: Stykkishólmur, Kirkjufell, Skarðsvík, Berserkjahraun, Djúpalónssandur, Snæfellsjökull

DAY 3

ARNARSTAPI, RED MOUNTAIN GORGE AND THE BEAUTIFUL BJARNARFOSS

Approx. km driven:

Once awake, it’s time to give Hellnar a second glance. For centuries, Hellnar was among the largest fishing villages beneath Snæfellsjökull glacier. Here you can also enter one of Iceland’s most peculiar caves, Baðstofa, or the Bathing Room. It is known for its special light exposure and colourful interior. A cold water spring is to be found at the lava’s edge. It is dedicated to the Holy Virgin, because it is said she had appeared here once. Remember to check out the visitors’ Centre of the National Park Snæfellsjökull.

As you make your way eastwards along the south coast of the peninsula, Arnarstapi is the next stop. A village in the southern part of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, the area has several old and charming houses with interesting stories to them and is furthermore renowned for its beautiful nature. An old horse trail through the lava field Hellnahraun is highly popular for hiking, due to the impressiveness of the surrounding landscape.

The mighty gorge of Rauðfellsgjá is a must-see. The cliff formations on either side of the opening resemble two gigantic clenched fists, something right out of a fairy tale. You can climb into the crack, where a small stream runs out from further up in the rocks.

Bjarnarfoss waterfall is an impressive waterfall right by road 54 on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Although the waterfall can be seen from the main road, the most enjoyable and interesting part of the waterfall is quite high in the cliffs and takes an effort to walk up the steep slope by the stream coming from the waterfall. It is oh-so worth it as only there can you see and almost shake hands with the fairy woman that stands on top of the columnar basalt and seems to be bathing in the middle of the waterfall. Don’t believe us? Go see.

Finish this three day tour by heading back to Reykjavik or Keflavik for your flight back home

Attractions on the way: Arnarstapi, Hellnahraun, Rauðafellsgjá, Bjarnarfoss.

All rooms are with a private bathroom at three-star hotels or similar at quality guesthouses. Located in the city center or in close vicinity. Breakfast is included.

Luxury Rooms

This category features rooms at four-star design hotels in the city center with a private bathroom at the absolute best locations downtown or seaside locations such as the Fosshótel Reykjavík. Breakfast is included.

Luxury Extra

For those who are in for the very best and prefer to stay at high-end luxury accommodation, please email us to info@goicelandic.com directly after booking. We will suggest a specially customized upgrade for your stay. Please note that special requests are subject to additional cost.

GO ICELANDIC EXCLUSIVE –  VEHICLES

Go Icelandic offer just the right selection of vehicles to suit your wishes. Just book the one that fits your needs and travel plans. Our rental partners offer only highest quality vehicles and service to our guests and customers with care.

Our self-drive packages include only newest models of cars in each category or maximum 2 years old. Most of the fleet is equipped with a GPS for your safety and comfort. Please see the categories of available vehicles and select the car you need for a magical vacation in Iceland. Based on weather conditions we do recommend a comfortable 4X4 as a minimal standard for winter traveling due to the high probability of snow, and subsequently the possibility of icy and challenging road conditions.

Budget Option – 5 Persons Max

Great 2WD vehicle for your comfort. Great for regular road conditions and traveling enjoyment. We offer a selection of cars like KIA, VW, and Toyota or similar in all our tours. Does not fit for offroad driving.

Comfort 4X4 Option – 5 Persons Max

A medium sized SUV with 4 Wheel Drive (4×4), fit for most travel, and capable of snow and off-asphalt travel, such as Toyota, KIA or similar. This vehicle has basic highland capabilities.

Luxury 4×4 Option – 5 Persons Max

A large sized SUV with 4 Wheel Drive (4×4) such as Toyota Land Cruiser 150 or similar, capable of nearly all traveling routes. This vehicle has full highland capabilities to drive on accessible mountain roads.