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Waterfalls in Snæfellsnes: Hidden Gems in West Iceland

Fri, 09 May 2025 09:47:56 GMT

Snæfellsnes has many waterfalls of all shapes and sizes, here are 5 of our favorite waterfalls.

When travelers think of Iceland’s waterfalls, names like Gullfoss and Skógafoss often come to mind. But if you’re heading to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , you’ll discover a quieter, more intimate side of Iceland’s natural wonders, beautiful waterfalls nestled in lava fields, mountain passes, and seaside cliffs .

Whether you’re planning a road trip or exploring West Iceland’s lesser-known gems , these Snæfellsnes waterfalls are well worth a stop.

1. Bjarnarfoss – The Tall Beauty Near Arnarstapi

Soaring nearly 80 meters from a rugged cliff face, Bjarnarfoss is one of the most eye-catching waterfalls in Snæfellsnes. It’s located just off Route 54 near Búðir and Arnarstapi, making it an easy addition to your travel route. A short walking path takes you closer to the base, where you’ll see water cascading over hexagonal basalt columns.

Tip: This spot is especially scenic on clear days when Snæfellsjökull glacier peeks through the clouds above.
Click here to see Bjarnarfoss location on Google Maps

2. Svöðufoss – The Quiet Charmer

Just outside the village of Rif on the northern coast of Snæfellsnes, Svöðufoss sits tucked away in a peaceful valley surrounded by lava cliffs. A short gravel road leads to a small parking area, and from there, a walking path takes you to a great viewing point.

Why visit: Its tranquil setting and backdrop of basalt formations make it a perfect photo stop or peaceful break from the road.
Click here to see Svöðufoss location on Google Maps

3. Snekkjufoss – A Remote Jewel Near the Glacier

Snekkjufoss is one of Snæfellsnes’ more remote waterfalls, located near the foot of Snæfellsjökull glacier . Getting there involves driving a rough gravel track to a trailhead, followed by a scenic hiking path through lava fields and glacier-carved terrain.

Adventure tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots and check the weather—this waterfall is best visited in summer or early autumn when the trail is clear and conditions are stable.
Click here to see Snekkjufoss location on Google Maps

4. Selvallafoss – Walk Behind This Hidden Cascade

Located on the mountain pass along Road 56 , Selvallafoss is sometimes called "the waterfall by the road" (Fossin við Veginn) and Sheep's waterfall. This beautiful, multi-tiered waterfall gives you the rare opportunity to walk behind it , making it a favorite for photographers and curious travelers alike.

Bonus: After heavy rain, additional streams appear around the falls, creating a curtain-like effect over the cliff face.
Click here to see Selvallafoss location on Google Maps

5. Bæjarfoss – The Heart of Ólafsvík

Rising above the fishing town of Ólafsvík, Bæjarfoss is a scenic waterfall with great views over the village and Breiðafjörður bay. You can start your walk directly from town, following a gentle trail up toward the base of the falls.

Local tip: Visit in the evening when the lights are lit, creating ideal conditions for photos and quiet reflection.
Click here to see Bæjarfoss location on Google Maps

Plan Your Visit

Exploring the waterfalls of Snæfellsnes is a great way to experience the raw beauty of West Iceland without the crowds. Each of these falls has its own charm, whether it's a peaceful setting, a hidden trail, or a rare opportunity to walk behind a cascade.

For travelers looking to discover hidden gems in Snæfellsnes , these waterfalls are a perfect start. Take your time, bring your camera, and enjoy the journey.

What to Do on a Rainy Day in Snæfellsnes, West Iceland

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:42:43 GMT

When you think of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula , majestic volcanoes, dramatic coastal cliffs, and sweeping lava fields might come to mind. However, Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather means you could well find yourself with a gray, drizzly day. Don’t worry—a little rain won’t dampen your adventures. Below are some of the top rainy day activities to help you make the most of your visit to West Iceland .

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Renting a Car in Iceland: Why It’s the Best Way to Explore

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 13:44:20 GMT

Renting a car: The way we recommend Exploring Iceland

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Snæfellsnes, Iceland - Where a Journey to the Centre of the Earth begins

Sat, 15 Feb 2025 15:09:09 GMT

Embark on Your Own “Journey to the Centre of the Earth” in Vatnshellir Cave

There’s no denying the beauty and mystique that Iceland holds, and one of the country’s most iconic sites—Snæfellsjökull—has captured the imaginations of travelers and dreamers for centuries. This glacier-capped volcano on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is not only a stunning natural wonder, but also the literary gateway to Jules Verne’s classic novel, A Journey to the Centre of the Earth. In Verne’s story, Snæfellsjökull becomes the portal through which adventurers set off on a subterranean odyssey. Today, you can still immerse yourself in that same spirit of exploration—just a few steps from the glacier’s flanks—on our guided tours through Vatnshellir Cave.

Snæfellsjökull: A Legendary Portal in Literature

When Jules Verne published A Journey to the Centre of the Earth in 1864, he tapped into the fascination of his era with scientific discoveries and the unknown. In the novel, Professor Lidenbrock deciphers an ancient parchment revealing that the entrance to Earth’s core can be found in the crater of Snæfellsjökull. From there, he and his companions embark on a perilous trek filled with hidden passages, mysterious underground oceans, and prehistoric creatures.

Verne’s choice of Snæfellsjökull as the entry point was no accident. Iceland was (and still is) known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and subterranean networks of lava caves and tunnels. The glacier-topped volcano itself has long been associated with a certain magical aura—local lore speaks of its spiritual energy, and many visitors feel an indescribable pull toward its snowy peak.

Connecting the Fictional World to Real-World Adventure

While Jules Verne’s explorers rappel into a fictional volcanic shaft, you can experience an authentic descent into the Earth nearby at Vatnshellir Cave. Though not the exact location of Verne’s fictional passage, Vatnshellir offers a tangible way to follow in the footsteps of Journey to the Centre of the Earth and see Iceland’s captivating underworld firsthand.

Vatnshellir Cave was formed thousands of years ago by molten lava. As the surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened, the still-molten lava beneath continued to flow, eventually creating hollow tunnels. Today, those tunnels make up the cave system you can safely explore with an experienced guide.

What to Expect on a Vatnshellir Cave Tour

Guided Exploration: Our expert guides lead you deep into the cave system, explaining the geological formations, local folklore, and the possible connection to Jules Verne’s classic tale.
Subterranean Spectacle: Descend a spiral staircase and navigate tunnels adorned with colorful lava formations. The textures and shapes are extraordinary, and the natural darkness offers a glimpse of the world beneath the surface.
Educational Insight: Learn how lava tubes form, how volcanic activity has shaped Iceland’s landscapes, and why Snæfellsjökull was such an intriguing choice for Verne’s sci-fi epic.
A Nod to Literary History: By exploring these depths, you’ll tap into the legacy of adventure writing—a thrilling connection to the age-old question: What truly lies below our feet?

Why Snæfellsnes and Vatnshellir Cave Are Must-Sees

Literary Significance: For fans of Jules Verne, stepping foot on Snæfellsnes is the ultimate way to bring A Journey to the Centre of the Earth to life.
Natural Beauty: The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it boasts an array of natural wonders—lava fields, sea cliffs, black-sand beaches, and the mighty Snæfellsjökull itself.
Easy Access: Located just off the main road around Snæfellsnes, Vatnshellir Cave is accessible to most visitors, allowing people of varying fitness levels to enjoy the experience.
Unique Adventure: Descending into an ancient lava tube is an experience you won’t soon forget. The terrain, the sounds, and even the smell of the cave offer a sensory journey unlike any other.

Carry the Spirit of Jules Verne on Your Iceland Adventure

While the Icelandic underworld may not include the prehistoric monsters or vast subterranean oceans Verne described, there is an undeniable sense of wonder and excitement in exploring these underground passages. Standing inside Vatnshellir, with the weight of the Earth overhead, it’s easy to imagine yourself part of a grand expedition—one that Jules Verne would surely applaud.

So, when you visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, don’t just admire Snæfellsjökull from a distance. Venture below the surface with our Vatnshellir Cave tour and embrace the timeless call of discovery that has fascinated readers for over a century. After all, there’s no better place to awaken your inner explorer than in the very shadow of the glacier that inspired one of literature’s most famous adventures.

Are you ready to follow in the footsteps of Professor Lidenbrock? Book your tour of Vatnshellir Cave today, and start your own “Journey to the Centre of the Earth” right here in West Iceland.

Ready to Book?
Check out our Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour to reserve your spot and continue the legacy of Jules Verne’s famed explorers. We look forward to guiding you on a subterranean adventure that echoes one of the greatest literary quests of all time!

Top 20 Attractions in Snæfellsnes

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:57:00 GMT

Our top 20 list of attractions and things to do in Snæfellsnes, West Iceland.

1. Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull National Park revolves around the famous Snæfellsjökull volcano, which dominates the western tip of the peninsula. Even from a distance, you can spot its glacier-covered peak (though the amount of snow and ice varies depending on the time of year). This volcano is steeped in myth and folklore—Jules Verne even chose it as the entry point to the Earth’s core in his novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.

What to Do:

Explore the dramatic landscapes, including lava fields, rugged cliffs, and scenic coastal areas.
Drive through the park’s main routes to take in breathtaking ocean vistas and unique rock formations.
Note that certain roads and trails may only be accessible in the summer months.

2. Vatnshellir Cave

Descend beneath the surface into the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave , an ancient lava tube located within Snæfellsjökull National Park. Guided tours are available year-round with many departures every day.

What to Do:

Marvel at the volcanic formations and underground chambers.
Click here to book your Vatnshellir Cave tour and secure your spot in advance, especially during the busy summer season.

3. Kirkjufell Mountain

Nicknamed “the most photographed mountain in Iceland,” Kirkjufell near Grundarfjörður is recognizable by its distinctive conical shape. It’s a standout feature of the Snæfellsnes coastline and especially photogenic during sunrise, sunset, or when adorned by the Northern Lights in winter.

What to Do:

Visit the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall (see #4) for that perfect postcard shot.
Enjoy the mountain’s changing colors through different seasons—summer’s midnight sun and winter’s auroras offer vastly different but equally stunning scenery.

4. Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall

This small yet scenic waterfall lies just across from Kirkjufell Mountain, creating one of Iceland’s most iconic landscape views. Even though Kirkjufellsfoss is relatively modest in size, it makes up for it with its picturesque surroundings.

What to Do:

Stroll around the waterfall for multiple viewpoints of Kirkjufell and the cascading waters.
Pack a waterproof jacket, as even light mist from the falls can be chilly—especially outside the summer months.

5. Arnarstapi Fishing Village

Arnarstapi is a charming coastal hamlet boasting jagged basalt cliffs and arches teeming with birdlife. A paved walkway takes you along the shoreline, showcasing incredible ocean panoramas and dramatic rock formations.

What to Do:

Walk the scenic trail connecting Arnarstapi to Hellnar for views of sea stacks and wildlife.
Snap a photo with the stone monument of Bárður Snæfellsás, the mystical guardian of the peninsula.

6. Hellnar

A short distance from Arnarstapi, Hellnar is another storybook-like settlement with rocky shores and a tranquil atmosphere. Historically, it was an important fishing outpost, and remnants of that heritage remain visible.

What to Do:

Savor a cup of coffee or lunch at Fjöruhúsið Café perched along the cliffs.
Stroll the coastline to spot seabirds nesting along the rocky ledges.

7. Djúpalónssandur Black Sand Beach

Djúpalónssandur is a stunning black-pebble beach enveloped by dramatic lava formations. Fans of Game of Thrones might recognize some of the landscapes from filming locations in the wider Snæfellsnes region. The beach also holds four traditional lifting stones once used to test fishermen’s strength.

What to Do:

Walk along the beach to discover remains of the British trawler Epine scattered along the shore.
Try hefting the lifting stones if you’re curious about historical Icelandic fishing culture.
Watch your step on the uneven terrain.

8. Lóndrangar Basalt Cliffs

Rising like towers from the North Atlantic, the Lóndrangar cliffs are majestic basalt formations shaped by volcanic activity and erosion. They serve as a haven for numerous bird species, making this a prime birdwatching spot during warmer months.

What to Do:

Hike the footpaths leading from the main parking area to get a closer look.
Bring binoculars for a chance to see puffins, guillemots, and other seabirds (mainly in summer).

9. Stykkishólmur

A vibrant town known for its colorful houses and waterfront views, Stykkishólmur has become a hub for travelers exploring Breiðafjörður Bay. Its old-town charm and historical buildings are well-preserved, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s rich maritime heritage.

What to Do:

Climb Súgandisey Hill for a panoramic view of the harbor and surrounding islands.
Wander through the quaint streets, visiting local shops and trying regional delicacies.

10. Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum

For a taste of Iceland’s more adventurous cuisine, the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum is the place to learn about—and sample—fermented Greenland shark. The museum details the centuries-old tradition of curing and fermenting shark in this remote region.

What to Do:

Hear from family members who’ve continued this practice for generations.
Dare to sample hákarl (fermented shark) if you’re up for a unique culinary challenge.

11. Búðir Black Church

Set against a striking backdrop of lava fields and mountains, the Black Church at Búðir has become an iconic symbol of the peninsula’s stark and minimalistic beauty. It’s a popular spot for weddings and photography due to its contrast with the surrounding landscape.

What to Do:

Capture dramatic shots of the church’s black timber frame against the rugged scenery.
Wander the nearby sandy beach for more photo opportunities.

12. Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge

A narrow canyon that slices into the side of Mount Botnsfjall, Rauðfeldsgjá offers a hidden, moss-covered world. Adventurous visitors can venture into the gorge, where the walls often drip with meltwater and a stream flows underfoot.

What to Do:

Wear waterproof boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Look upward to catch a glimpse of daylight filtering through the top.
Be careful, many accidents happen around the gorge. Rockfall, icefall and twisted ankles are a common thing at Rauðfeldsgjá.

13. Berserkjahraun Lava Field

This extensive field of jagged lava rock is known as Berserkjahraun , named after a saga involving two berserkers who built a road here. Covered in vibrant green moss during the summer, the lava formations create an otherworldly panorama.

What to Do:

Explore via car or on foot, following marked paths to avoid damaging the delicate moss.
Learn the local folklore tied to the region’s Viking history.

14. Eldborg Crater

Shaped like an oval fortress, Eldborg is a volcanic crater rising about 60 meters above the surrounding lava field. A moderate 2.5-kilometer hike takes you from the parking area to the crater rim.

What to Do:

Enjoy sweeping views of the peninsula from the top.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially outside of summer when the trail may be muddy or slippery.

15. Svöðufoss Waterfall

Located not far from Snæfellsjökull, Svöðufoss is a lesser-known waterfall that offers a serene atmosphere away from busier spots. A short trail leads to the falls, rewarding visitors with a peaceful nature escape.

What to Do:

Pack a picnic and enjoy the tranquil surroundings in summer.
Dress warmly in cooler months, as the wind can be strong near the falls.

16. Grundarfjörður

Grundarfjörður sits under the watchful gaze of Kirkjufell Mountain. The town exudes a friendly atmosphere, with a picturesque harbor and a few local art venues.

What to Do:

Stroll the harbor area to see fishing boats come and go.
Check out local galleries showcasing regional artists and photographers.

17. Ytri Tunga Beach

Ytri Tunga is sandy beach known for its seal colony. During the summer, seals often lounge on the rocks, making it a favorite spot for wildlife viewing.

What to Do:

Bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to observe the seals without disturbing them.
Visit in summer for the highest likelihood of seeing these playful marine mammals.

18. Ólafsvík

A traditional fishing town on the northern coast of the peninsula, Ólafsvík has a scenic harbor and offers easy access to nearby natural attractions. In recent years, it has also become known as a departure point for whale-watching tours.

What to Do:

Embark on a whale-watching excursion from Ólafsvík and keep an eye out for orcas, humpbacks, and more (primarily in summer).
Explore the town’s shops and cafés to soak up local culture.
Click here to book a Whale Watching Tour from Ólafsvík

19. Saxhóll Crater

This small volcanic crater in Snæfellsjökull National Park features convenient steps that lead you to the rim. Saxhóll provides a fantastic vantage point over the park’s rugged terrain.

What to Do:

Walk to the top for sweeping views of lava fields, coastline, and the looming Snæfellsjökull volcano.
Visit during summer for clearer trails and easier driving conditions.

20. Gerðuberg Basalt Columns

Rounding out the list is Gerðuberg , a striking formation of tall, hexagonal basalt columns that line a low cliff. These geometric columns were formed by cooling lava and are remarkably uniform, almost as if sculpted by hand.

What to Do:

Take a short walk along the base to appreciate the unique structure and patterns.
Capture wide-angle photos to show the columns stretching across the cliff.

Practical Tips for Visiting Snæfellsnes

Summer vs. Winter : Many roads, hikes, and tours are primarily available or easiest to access in the summer. Winter travelers should plan for potential closures and always check weather and road conditions.
Weather Preparedness : Icelandic weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes, no matter the season.
Respect for Nature : Stay on marked paths, leave no trace, and keep a safe distance from wildlife—especially seals and nesting birds.
Local Etiquette : Islanders are friendly and welcoming. Greet people, ask questions, and be courteous to local customs and private property.

Ready to Explore Snæfellsnes?

From the mystical allure of Snæfellsjökull National Park to the charming villages and dramatic coastlines, the Snæfellsnes peninsula offers something for every traveler. Remember to plan around the seasons, respect the fragile environment, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and folklore.

Northern Lights in Snæfellsnes: Your Ultimate Guide to Aurora Hunting in Iceland

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:18:38 GMT

Are you dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in Snæfellsnes ? Iceland’s majestic Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it boasts everything from stunning coastlines and dramatic lava fields to an iconic glacier-capped volcano. But it’s also one of the country’s best-kept secrets for Aurora Borealis viewing. Below, we’ll walk you through the basics of spotting the Northern Lights in Iceland and why Snæfellsnes might just be the perfect place to make that dream come true.

Why Snæfellsnes is a Top Spot for Northern Lights in Iceland

Minimal Light Pollution
Thanks to its smaller towns and wide-open landscapes, Snæfellsnes experiences less light pollution compared to popular areas closer to Reykjavik. On a clear night, you’ll have dark skies perfect for Aurora spotting.
Dramatic Scenery
The peninsula features jaw-dropping backdrops like Hreggnasi (Our favorite backdrop for Northern Lights), Kirkjufell (one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains), black-sand beaches, and the legendary Snæfellsjökull Glacier . These scenic landmarks frame the dancing lights, making your photos even more spectacular.
Quiet, Less-Crowded Viewing
Many travelers rush to the Golden Circle or other well-known spots. Snæfellsnes offers a more relaxed, authentic experience, so you can watch the sky illuminate without feeling overcrowded.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Snæfellsnes

While the Northern Lights can appear any time the sky is dark, the typical Aurora season in Iceland runs from late September through mid-April. During these months, nights are long enough for the sky to reveal its colorful displays. December and January have the longest nights, but February and March often provide more stable weather conditions.

Keep in mind that Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—there’s never a 100% guarantee. However, visiting in the winter months with multiple nights to spare will give you the best chance for a successful sighting.

Tips for Maximizing Your Chances of Seeing the Aurora

Check the Weather Forecast
Icelandic weather changes quickly. An Aurora forecast combined with a local weather forecast is essential for timing your outing. (This is where our local expertise really comes into play—be sure to read more in our detailed weather forecasting guide for Snæfellsnes below)
Check the Aurora Forecast
We use the forecast from Geophysical Institute of University of Alaska , there are other options as well.
Get familiar with this website and learn about the KP values, which for basic understanding is enough to know if conditions are favorable. Generally we don’t go out unless the KP value is greater than 2.
Look North
Often the displays are quite high above the Northern horizon. During more powerful activity the Aurora belt may move directly above or even further south. Most beautiful displays are when Aurora activity is right above your head, then you get the corona vantage point.
Chase Clear Skies
Even a strong Aurora Borealis can be obscured by heavy cloud cover. If you notice breaks in the cloud forecast, head to areas with the fewest clouds.
Stay Up Late
The most vibrant Northern Lights displays often occur between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM. Plan on being flexible; bring warm clothes, snacks, and prepare to wait if needed.
Embrace the Dark
Get away from streetlights and major towns. Rural areas near Arnarstapi , Hellnar , and along the coast towards Djupalónssandur can offer pristine darkness for unbeatable Aurora viewing. The lowest light pollution in Snæfellsjökull National Park can be found near the Vatnshellir Cave and Djúpalónssandur area.

Favorite Locations for Aurora Spotting in Snæfellsnes

Kirkjufell Mountain : Often featured in travel magazines, Kirkjufell provides an iconic silhouette beneath the dancing lights.
Arnarstapi & Hellnar : Quaint fishing villages with gorgeous sea cliffs—perfect if you want the Aurora to reflect off the water and rugged coastline.
Snæfellsjökull National Park : Home to the famous glacier-capped volcano, this area’s high-altitude vantage points can offer wide, sweeping views of the horizon. Also, Hreggnasi and other mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for the Northern Lights.

Local Knowledge Makes All the Difference

The Aurora forecast only tells part of the story. Local knowledge—understanding wind directions, cloud formations, and how weather shifts around Snæfellsjökull —is invaluable for successful Aurora chasing .
Here is our process for finding suitable weather conditions:

We use the Icelandic Met Office forecast . In our experience it provides the most accurate forecast.

Check the wind forecast first. If it’s really windy, then it’s no fun to go Aurora hunting and then it’s also more likely that clouds are present.

Check the precipitation forecast next. If it’s raining, chances are very slim that there is a gap in the clouds.

Finally, check the cloud cover forecast . We use the composite forecast for cloud cover, which shows low, mid and high level clouds. With low cloud cover your chances are slim, but often the high clouds have more gaps. Best case is of course if there is no color on the map. Colored areas represent clouds.

Note: For low clouds (blue color), try positioning yourself on the lee-side of mountains . The clouds often dissipate when passing over the mountains. If you’re unsure, try driving around between Arnarstapi and Hellissandur, through the National Park, often there are gaps in the clouds somewhere along the way.

Capture the Magic (Photography Tips)

Use a Tripod : The Northern Lights require longer exposure times. A sturdy tripod reduces blur and ensures crisp images.
Set manual focus :
Easy way: set lens on manual focus, turn the focus ring to infinity sign.
Professional way: Set your lens on manual focus, use digital zoom to find a star, turn the focus until you make the star as small as possible. You now have a great focus.
Manual Settings : Keep your camera on manual mode with a wide aperture (f/2.8 to f/4), or faster if you have fast lens (like f/1.4), a moderately high ISO (800–3200), and a long shutter speed (5–20 seconds). If your camera and lens is light sensitive, try playing around with shorter shutter speed to freeze the movement of the northern lighst. That may give you a clearer image.
Bring Extra Batteries : Icelandic cold can drain batteries faster than normal, so pack spares.
Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Moment : It’s easy to get lost behind the camera. Take a minute to put the camera down and savor this celestial display with your own eyes.
Phone photography : Use tripod if you have one, set your camera to long exposure on night-mode. Modern iPhones have up to 30 sec exposure when on tripod, but 10 second exposure handheld. Learn to capture photos in the dark before coming, you can practice in dark rooms or outdoor at night to learn before arriving.

Bonus point: Do the Northern Lights look like the photos?

The answer is yes and no. The power range of the Aurora is huge. Few days a year on average we have really powerful shows with pink, white and green colors very bright, visible and vibrant to naked eyes. When they’re not powerful, camera tricks can make them look stronger. Many see the less-powerful aurora and think it’s all just a lie. But the power of the Aurora varies a lot!

Come visit Snæfellsnes and let the magic of the Aurora Borealis create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Snæfells-this / Snæfells-that... What does it mean?

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 23:23:15 GMT

Snæfellsnes, Snæfellsjökull, Snæfellsbær, Snæfells...

It's no wonder that people have a hard time with our Icelandic words and names. The language can be complex and is often difficult to learn.

I wanted to take few examples and clarify how some of our words are formed.

Let's start with "Snæfell" - It's a place name and its direct translation is "Snow-mountain". The name of the glacier on the peninsula is Snæfellsjökull, which would translate to snow-mountain-glacier (jökull=glacier). Now Snæfellsnes is then the name of the peninsula (nes=peninsula), so Snæfellsnes would directly translate to snow-mountain-peninsula. Snæfellsbær is the name of the municipality of the outer part of the peninsula, includes places like Ólafsvík, Rif, Hellissandur and Arnarstapi. "Bær" directly translates to "town", but its roots can be traced to "farm", "home" or "homestead".

Similar connections can be found in Icelandic language everywhere. I've already mentioned "jökull", which means "glacier". So if you see anything on the map that ends with "jökull" that means it's a name of a glacier. Same with "foss" which directly translates to "waterfall".
Few more examples:
"hóll" = "hill"
"dalur" = "valley"
"fjörður" = "fjord"

"vík" = "cove"
"fjall" / "fell" = "mountain"

Visiting Snæfellsnes: Weather and Road Conditions

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:46:00 GMT

The weather in Iceland is something you should not underestimate. Here in Snæfellsnes the weather is overall quite good throughout the year but it's worth noting that it can change quickly and having a flexible travel plan is a good idea, especially when traveling in winter.

This is how we, the locals, check the weather and road conditions. Knowing the weather and road conditions is key for a safe and enjoyable trip to Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Weather
Often the weather systems develop quickly and can move across the whole North Atlantic in a matter of few hours. That makes forecasting generally difficult compared to slower moving weather systems. Summer is generally much better than winter when it comes to weather!

Long term weather forecast
To get the big picture for up to 6 days ahead we like to use the Atlantic Ocean ECMWF forecast. This forecast shows how the weather systems are developing on a large scale and if there are any extremes on the way. https://en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/atlantic/

Short term weather forecast
In our experience, the Icelandic Met Office has the most accurate short-term forecast. It tends to be accurate for 3-4 days ahead. There are two ways to explore this forecast.

The symbol version: Good to see the weather at a quick glance. Is it going to snow or rain? Will there be sun? Note that you can click parts of the country to see any part of Iceland in more detail.
https://en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/areas/

The element version: Good to see local weather patterns around mountains and how weather systems develop. Note that there are tabs for wind, precipitation and temperature. You can also select "Breiðafjörður" for more detailed view of Snæfellsnes.
https://en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/elements/

Weather warnings
The Met Office issues warnings if they believe the weather might have a notable impact. The warning are color coded and it should be your priority to watch out for the warnings. Check once a day while here in Iceland and see if there is anything new. The weather warnings can be found in the top right corner of every page within the Met Office website as well as using this link here: https://en.vedur.is/alerts
Note that even yellow warnings (lowest level) can have significant impact.

Local weather problems

When the wind is strong, keep in mind that it's usually more intense wind on the lee-side of mountains. When the wind comes over the mountains it can funnel down with turbulance from the mountains and be much more intense than on the wind-side.
So when you have a choice it's often better to stay on the wind-side of mountains. This is especially true here in Snæfellsnes, where we can have relatively calm weather on one side and hurricane force wind gusts on the other side of the mountains. The wind element version of the short term forecast shows this effect generally quite well.

Road conditions

It is important to know the road conditions, especially in winter. Icy roads and high winds are combo that often get travelers in trouble. Snowdrift from snowstorms may close roads and the roads are not always closed before a storm comes. The locals often have powerful off road vehicles for heavy snow driving so don't follow anyone blindly into the unknown. Don't trust that a road is OK if it has no physical closure bars.
Monitor road conditions through this website, it's updated many times each day as conditions evolve.
https://umferdin.is/en