8 Must See Animals in Iceland You Can’t Miss
Let’s discover the eight must see animals in Iceland and reveal the best times and places to encounter them up close.
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The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is approximately 150 kilometres (93 miles) northwest of Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital. It’s close enough for a day trip. Still, many visitors prefer to spend at least a few days exploring the area to enjoy its beauty.
The best way to get to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavík is by car. Renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace and stop at various attractions along the way. The drive takes about two to three hours, depending on how often you stop. You’ll follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) north from Reykjavík, then take Route 54 west, which loops around the peninsula. The roads are well-maintained, and the scenery along the way is stunning, making the drive an enjoyable part of the trip. (For tips for driving in Iceland, click here)
There are also guided tours available from Reykjavík, which can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive.
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We spent two days exploring this amazing area as part of our 17-day Iceland trip. Here are nine of our must-see places on the peninsula.
Elborg Crater is a volcanic crater formed over 5,000 years ago and is at the start of your Snaefellsnes Peninsula drive. It’s a perfect example of Iceland’s fiery heart. Standing on the edge of Elborg, looking into the vast, empty space that was once bubbling with lava, gives you a unique sense of connection to the earth’s raw power.
There is a flat walk from the car park to the crater. Once at the crater, there is a reasonably steep but short climb up to the rim. There is a chain to help on the climb up and down. It’s a great way to start this adventure. Once you reach the top, the views make it worth the effort. You can see for miles around, with the Icelandic landscape stretching out like a vast, untouched wilderness. But be aware that it can get very windy at the top.
For anyone fascinated by nature, adventure, or just looking for a place to reflect and take in the world’s beauty, Elborg Crater is a must-visit. But be aware that it can get windy at the top of the crater.
Known for its unique golden sand contrasting Iceland’s typical black beaches, this beach boasts a unique mix of sand and rocks. Ytri Tunga is famous for its friendly seal population, which you can often spot lounging on the rocks or bobbing in the waters near the shore.
What makes Ytri Tunga stand out isn’t just its wildlife. The beach is set against a backdrop of stunning Icelandic scenery, with mountains and fields stretching as far as the eye can see.
Standing alone against the vast, open landscape, the Budhir Black Church‘s black timber walls and stark, white window frames create a mesmerising, eerie and beautiful contrast. With its pitch-black exterior, this church is not just a building; it’s a piece of art that tells a story of Iceland’s history and culture.
The church dates back to the 19th century. Besides its colour, its isolation is unique amid one of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes. It’s surrounded by lava fields, with the wild Atlantic Ocean on one side and the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier visible in the distance.
Picture this: dramatic cliffs meeting the wild Atlantic, with waves crashing against the rocks, and in the distance, the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier watching over everything. It’s a scene that stays with you long after you leave.
Arnarstapi, a historically important trading post, has managed to retain a sense of timelessness. The village, dotted with quaint cottages and old fishing boats, tells tales of a life deeply connected with the sea, allowing you to feel a deep connection to Iceland’s rich history.
Nestled on the edge of Snæfellsjökull National Park on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Hellnar is a mix of natural wonder and history. Once a bustling fishing hub, it has settled into a quieter rhythm, but the echoes of its past remain in the old buildings and boats that dot the landscape.
What truly sets Hellnar apart are its natural attractions. The cliffs and sea caves here are rugged yet uniquely beautiful. Walking along the coast, I was amazed by the dramatic rock formations and the sheer beauty of the landscape.
From the breathtaking views of the Atlantic to the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance, every corner of Hellnar offers a new wonder.
Arriving at the Lóndrangar cliffs felt like stepping onto the set of an epic movie. The towering rock formations, standing proudly against the force of the Atlantic Ocean, are not just a sight to behold; they’re a testament to the raw power of nature. Formed from hardened magma that erupted long ago, the cliffs have been shaped by the sea and wind into what you see today – two massive towers that look like the ruins of a great fortress.
What’s fascinating about Lóndrangar is the history and legends that envelop it. It’s said that elves and trolls inhabit the area, guarding the land. Whether you believe in these tales or not, there’s no denying the magical aura surrounding this place.
Standing atop the cliffs, looking out over the ocean, you feel on top of the world. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with puffins, guillemots, and other seabirds calling the cliffs home.
Visiting Lóndrangar isn’t just a walk; it’s an adventure, a chance to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Iceland’s landscape. The combination of awe-inspiring scenery, rich mythology, and the sheer sense of wonder it evokes is something that stays with you.
Tucked away on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, this isn’t your typical beach. Instead of soft, golden sand, you’re greeted by black pebbles and lava rocks – a reminder of the volcanic forces that shaped this land.
Walking along Djúpalónssandur, you can’t help but feel a little humbled by the sheer power of nature. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and scattered with the eerie remains of a shipwreck from the 1940s, adding a touch of mystery to the landscape. It’s a poignant reminder of the sea’s power and the risks taken by those who’ve navigated these waters throughout history.
With a history that stretches back to the trading days of the 17th century, Ólafsvík is nestled at the base of the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula, offering breathtaking views and a peek into Iceland’s rich past.
What makes Ólafsvík stand out is its blend of old and new. The town is home to one of Iceland’s oldest churches, providing a glimpse into the country’s architectural and cultural heritage. But it’s not just about history; Ólafsvík is also a place of incredible natural beauty. The nearby Snæfellsjökull National Park is a treasure trove of geological wonders, from lava fields to glaciers, all under the watchful eye of the Snæfellsjökull volcano, which is famously featured in Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”
The iconic Kirkjufellfoss, with the majestic Kirkjufell mountain in the backdrop, is a scene straight out of a fantasy book. Visiting this place, I felt like I had stepped into a dream. The waterfall itself is not the tallest you’ll see, but what makes it spectacular is how it perfectly complements the uniquely shaped mountain behind it, creating one of the most photographed spots in Iceland.
Kirkjufell Mountain has been a landmark for centuries. Due to its distinct shape, its name means “Church Mountain.” Fishermen and travellers have used it as a guide, and now, it guides tourists to one of the most breathtaking sights in the country.
The tranquillity, the sound of the water, and the sheer beauty of the landscape are mesmerising. For photographers, it’s a dream location, offering stunning views no matter the season.
If you have an extra 2 days to spend in Iceland, take a trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. You will not be disappointed!
Hi, I’m Lisa, a retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world as much as possible, proving that we never let age define what we can do. So staying fit is key to our adventures, whether we’re hiking the Inca Trail or scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature, and wildlife.
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2 Responses
Rad write-up! When I got to visit Iceland, we spent our time on the southern portion of Ring Road. That was completely breathtaking, but the country has sooo much awe-inspiring beauty. Hope to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula next time!
We had 17 days so we got to see a lot but still so much more to see. The southern part of Iceland is stunning!