- Borgarnes - We start the day with a drive from Reykjavík to the mall town of Borgarnes (about 1.5 hours drive). The area is a setting for large parts of one of the best known sagas, Egil’s Saga, and at The Settlement Center there are two exhibitions, one is about the first settlers of Iceland that arrived here as a part of the viking expansion into Europe, the other is dedicated to the great viking warrior poet Egil Skallagrímsson.
- Budir - First sightseeing stop is Búðir (about 1.5 hour from Borgarnes). Búðir, is a charming hamlet surrounded by a unique blend of lava fields, black sand beaches, and coastal beauty. Home to the iconic Búðakirkja, a black church contrasting against its surroundings, Búðir offers a serene escape into Iceland’s enchanting landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the picturesque fusion of cultural and natural elements in this idyllic Icelandic setting.
- Arnarstapi - From Búðir we travel along the south part of Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Arnarstapi (about 0.5 hour drive). Arnarstapi, a coastal village on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, boasts dramatic cliffs, stunning rock formations, and a picturesque harbor. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of this charming Icelandic locale, where the sea meets striking landscapes, creating a captivating backdrop for exploration and tranquility.
- Hellnar - A short distance (about 15 min) from Arnarstapi is Hellnar. Hellnar is a serene coastal hamlet surrounded by scenic cliffs and the vast expanse of the North Atlantic. Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, Hellnar offers visitors a peaceful retreat, with charming coastal paths and breathtaking views of the ocean. Discover the simplicity and allure of this Icelandic village against the backdrop of majestic landscapes.
- Londrangar Basalt Cliffs - About 15 minutes drive from Hellnar are Lóndrangar, a pair of towering basalt sea stacks rising dramatically from the ocean. These iconic formations, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, create a striking silhouette against the coastal skyline. Lóndrangar’s mystique and geological significance make it a captivating destination for those seeking the raw beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders.
- Djupalonssandur Beach - From Lóndrangar we continue for another 15 minutes to reach Djúpalónssandur Beach. For centuries in the past farmers came here in winter to work on boats sailing out from the rugged volcanic coastline to the rich fishing grounds just off land. The massive lava flow that stopped here sometime in the distant past created a natural shelter where they set up camp. A reminder of these harsh times are four heavy rocks of different sizes which decided how much any individual got paid at the end of the season; a tenth, a quart, half or full pay, all depending on the weight they could lift after a journey that often took days over rugged terrain in the middle of winter. A trawler ran aground here in 1948 and has been disintegrating slowly since then leaving chunks of rusted iron the beach making this place the most extensive natural art installation in Iceland.
- Kirkjufell Mountain - From Djúpalónssandur Beach we travel around the Peninsula, passing several fishing villages (about 2 hour drive with several small stops to take pictures). Named the church mountain this is a place that reminds us of Iceland ́s rich folklore and many myths. The first settlers most likely saw the mountain as some sort of a place of worship from either trolls or elves or even some other entities they thought were hanging out in the area. From Kirkjufell we go back to Reykjavík (about 2.5 hour drive).
- Pick Up and Drop Off in Reykjavik
- Your Own English Speaking Driver in Private Vehicle
- Food & Beverages
- Local Driver-Guide
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a location where nature, history, and folklore converge, creating a place of rugged beauty and mysterious charm. Exploring the area through a private tour with a knowledgeable driver is an excellent way to experience its extensive offerings.
The drive is remarkably scenic, with a landscape that unfolds as a wonderful symphony of extinct volcanoes, hot springs, craters, and lava fields formed during volcanic activities in the distant past. Possible stops include the rock formations at Gerðuberg, the black church at Búðir, and the seals at Ytri Tunga beach.
The fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar serve as reminders of Iceland’s history as a fishing nation. Further out, Djúpalónssandur beach offers a breathtaking view, where a lava flow from the great volcano met the ocean, creating a natural harbour.
On the northern side of the peninsula lies the much photographed Kirkjufell, a cone-shaped mountain near the fishing village of Grundarfjörður.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
