Snæfellsnes is often called 'Iceland in miniature': in one peninsula you find lava fields, black and golden beaches, fishing villages, sea cliffs and the Snæfellsjökull glacier.
The western tip is protected as Snæfellsjökull National Park, with stops like Arnarstapi, Hellnar and Djúpalónssandur.
Getting there
Drive north from Reykjavík on Route 1 to Borgarnes, then take road 54 west. A full loop of the peninsula makes a long day; two days is more relaxed.
When to go
All year. Summer is greener; winter brings snow and the chance of northern lights.
Good to know
- Stay overnight in Stykkishólmur or Grundarfjörður.
- Walk the coastal path between Arnarstapi and Hellnar.
- Check road conditions in winter on the mountain passes.
Read more in the journal
- The Iceland Ring Road: Complete Driving Guide
- Iceland's Best Waterfalls: The Complete Map
- Iceland's Volcanoes: A Visitor's Map and Guide
- Things to Do in Iceland: 29 Top Sights on One Map
- Westfjords Road Trip: The Detour the Ring Road Skips
Drive times are approximate and depend on weather and road conditions. Check road.is and vedur.is before you set off.
