Things to do in Grundarfjörður

Depart Reykjavik and head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a bus day trip to experience Iceland's diverse natural beauty. Take in the dramatic landscape of volcanic peaks, sea cliffs, golden beaches, and sparkling fjords. Visit charming fishing villages, such as Grundarfjordur and Arnarstapi. Admire the spectacular mountains and volcanic craters, including Kirkjufell and Ljósufjöll. Cast your eyes on the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur, and see the majestic glacier of Snæfellsjökull. Take a photo stop at the famed Black Church at Budir, and spot seals lolling in the sea at Ytri Tunga beach. Tour at a leisurely pace and experience the magnificent scenery of the peninsula at ease. This tour visits a variety of landscapes in a compact region which was immortalized by Jules Verne in his book, "Journey to the Centre of the Earth." 

Embark on an unforgettable day tour from Grundarfjörður to Snæfellsnes, exploring the stunning landscapes and captivating landmarks that define this magical peninsula. Your journey begins at Grundarfjörður port, where you'll be greeted by the breathtaking silhouette of Kirkjufell, one of Iceland's most iconic mountains. First on the itinerary is Kirkjufellsfoss, a majestic waterfall at the base of Kirkjufell. Marvel at the synergy of the mountain and the falls, capturing postcard-perfect moments against the backdrop of nature's grandeur. Continue your adventure to Djúpalónssandur, a black-sand beach adorned with fascinating remnants of a shipwreck. Feel the ancient spirits of the sea as you explore the mystical stones scattered along the shore, each with its own unique historical significance. As you travel along the coastline, Lóndrangar will emerge on the horizon – colossal basalt rock pinnacles rising dramatically from the sea. Gaze in awe at these natural sculptures and appreciate the raw power of geological forces that shaped the rugged coastline. Arnarstapi, a quaint fishing village, beckons with its charm and scenic coastal beauty. Stroll along the coastal cliffs, breathe in the crisp sea air, and witness the resident birdlife nesting on the cliffs. Your journey concludes at Búðir, a picturesque location featuring the iconic black church set against a backdrop of lava fields and the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Take in the spiritual ambiance and capture the timeless allure of this historic site. As you return to Grundarfjörður port, reflect on a day filled with natural wonders, cultural treasures, and the undeniable magic that is Snæfellsnes. This day tour promises a symphony of sights and experiences, creating lasting memories of Iceland's awe-inspiring beauty.

Your tour will begin at the kayaking base, where you will meet your experienced local guide. After some friendly introductions, your guide will provide you with all of the necessary equipment for a fun and safe time on the water. Your kit will include a dry suit, a life jacket, shoes and gloves, and of course, a thermal undersuit. You will spend a total of 70 minutes on the water, first heading towards “Seal Skerry”, an area of incredible wildlife which includes various species of birds, and as the name suggests, some resident seals. From this location you will have a fantastic view of Mount Kirkjufell, which stands proud and domineering over the landscape. Keen observers of pop culture will recognize Kirkjufell almost immediately as the “mountain like an arrowhead” from HBO’s Game of Thrones. Leaving “Seal Skerry” behind, you will continue along the shoreline at the mountain’s roots, before making the return journey to the base. After your tour is over, you are invited to warm up on the kayaking base’s deck with a hot beverage, reflecting over the beautiful experience in which you’ve just partaken. When your time at the base is over, you are free to continue exploring this beautiful region at your leisure.

On your first day, you will go to the Famous Golden Circle. Enjoy thehe Grand Golden Circle tour, a compact 8 hour tour that takes you to a series of remarkable and diverse sites in the Southwest of Iceland in a span of only eight hours. In the Geysir geothermal area, get the chance to observe the boiling hot spring Strokkur spout steaming water up to 30 meters into the air every 8 minutes. Next, head to the iconic waterfall of Gullfoss, or Golden Falls, only a 7 minutes’ drive from Geysir, located in the glacial river Hvítá. Marvel at it's elegant and majestic form which is like no other, where the torrential river water plummets in two steps down into a 32 meters deep canyon. After this, visit Þingvellir National Park which located at the intersection of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and is not only a site of geological wonder, but also a place charged with history, as the site of the national parliament since 930. At Þingvellir, learn its stories of geographical and political struggles, compromises and ongoing evolution. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to visit the volcanic crater lake Kerið. On the second day, embark on a 10 hour Southern Iceland tour which will take you to diverse natural pearls along the enchanting south coast of Iceland. Take in a landscape characterised by strong contrasts, where grown plains meet coarse mountains and fire meets ice. Then, visit the waterfalls of Skógafoss, with its breathtaking 60m drop, and Seljalandsfoss, which you can walk behind and through to the other side. In Reynisfjara, or Black Sand Beach, experience the raw and alluring force of the North Atlantic and its masterfully shaped basalt column cliffs. The site is equally beautiful as it is dangerous, and should be approached with a healthy level of awe and respect. Next, take a short walk up to the glacier snout of Sólheimajökull, a sublet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull, where you can witness the dynamics of Icelandic glaciers, their formation, behaviour and rapid melting. On the third and last day, experience the range of Icelandic natural beauty in just one area—the wonderfully diverse Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Discover the charming fishing villages of Grundarfjordur, Arnarstapi and Hellnar, spectacular mountains and volcanic craters such as Kirkjufelland Ljósufjöll, the black beach at Djúpalónssandur, the majestic glacier Snæfellsjökull and the seal colony at Ytri Tunga. 

Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Small Group Adventure from Reykjavik Join us for an unforgettable day trip from Reykjavik to the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature"! You'll see a fantastic mix of landscapes, from lava fields and mountains to black sand beaches and glaciers. Our small group ensures a friendly and personal experience. We start with a convenient pick-up from your chosen bus stop in central Reykjavik. We'll get everyone on board quickly so we can enjoy a full day exploring! 1. Berserkjahraun Lava Fields Our first stop takes us to the amazing Berserkjahraun lava fields. These jagged rocks are from an old volcano and look like something from another world. You'll see how powerful volcanoes are in Iceland. 2. Mt. Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfalls Next, we'll visit the famous Mt. Kirkjufell, Iceland's most photographed mountain! You'll see its unique shape and the beautiful Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls right in front of it. It's a perfect spot for taking pictures. 3. Snæfellsjökull National Park We'll drive through the stunning Snæfellsjökull National Park, a protected wilderness area surrounding the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier. On a clear day, you can even see this glacier from Reykjavik! Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as we journey through this remarkable national park. 4. Djúpalónssandur Beach Get ready for the stunning Djúpalónssandur black sand beach. You'll walk along the black pebbles and see pieces of old shipwrecks scattered on the sand. There are also some old lifting stones here – a fun challenge if you're feeling strong! 5. Lóndrangar Basalt Cliffs We'll see the impressive Lóndrangar basalt cliffs, two huge rock formations rising from the sea. They are all that's left of an old volcano and are home to many birds, offering amazing coastal views. 6. Arnarstapi We'll visit the charming village of Arnarstapi, a picturesque place with mountains behind it and cliffs by the sea. It used to be a busy fishing village, and you can still feel its history. Enjoy a walk along the cliffs and maybe spot some seabirds. The Arnarstapi bridge is a famous photo spot. 7. Búðir Black Church We'll make a stop at the beautiful Búðir Black Church. This striking wooden church stands alone in a vast lava field, creating a wonderful contrast in the landscape – a perfect photo opportunity! 8. Ytri Tunga Beach Seals Our final stop on the peninsula is Ytri Tunga Beach. This golden sand beach is a great place to see seals! Keep an eye out for these playful creatures basking on the rocks near the shore. After exploring the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, we'll begin our journey back to central Reykjavik, dropping you off at the same bus stop where we picked you up. We hope you'll have amazing memories of this special part of Iceland! Please note that the order of stops might change depending on the weather conditions, but we will still visit all the amazing places mentioned.

This tour begins at the kayaking base beside the shoreline. Here, you will be introduced to your friendly and experienced guide who will give a quick lesson on the basics of controlling your vessel, as well as hand out all of the necessary equipment. Once on the water, you will be surrounded by a breadth of captivating natural scenery, including, of course, Mount Kirkjufell, most famous for its starring role as “the mountain like an arrowhead” in HBO’s award-winning TV series, Games of Thrones. As you head towards "Seal Skerry", you will also see firsthand various species of birdlife, as well as some of the resident seals that call the area home. You will then continue around the base of Mount Kirkjufell, gaining various perspectives of this incredible feature. Upon returning to the shore, you will be invited to warm up with a hot beverage on the deck.

This 2-hour sea kayak tour is the perfect opportunity to discover Iceland's nature and wildlife at its best. Escape the crowds on this excursion and travel along the coastline to some of the most remote islands of Breiðafjörður Bay. Enjoy scenic landscapes from sea level and see the surrounding glaciers and volcanoes of the peninsula. The tour will start at the kayak base located in the center of the charming village of Stykkishólmur. After a short paddle, the tour arrives at the first landmark, Landey, the world famous eiderdown harvesting location. Later, the tour visits shipwrecks, including the eerie wreckage of the Thorgeir. Occasionally kayakers spot the king of Iceland’s birdlife, the white-tailed eagle, flying far above or nesting on the islands. The white tail eagle is a rare and unforgettable sight. Then, after a short paddle break, the tour threads between local islands before returning to shore.

This peninsula showcases a diverse array of Icelandic landscapes, earning it the moniker "Iceland in miniature." Despite its remote location, away from the bustling Ring Road, Snæfellsnes remains sparsely inhabited, often overlooked by travelers who prefer more beaten paths. Culturally, Snæfellsnes holds significance as well. Its dramatic scenery served as the backdrop for Jules Verne's iconic novel "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and subsequent film adaptations. It also stood in for the northern landscapes in "Game of Thrones." Mt. Kirkjufell, beloved by Icelanders, famously depicted the Arrowhead mountain. Exploring Snæfellsnes reveals not only Mt. Kirkjufell but also the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, the awe-inspiring Arnarstapi Bird Cliffs with their stone bridge and arch, the striking Djúpalónssandur black beach, and much more. Visitors may also encounter the famed black church of Búðir and perhaps catch a glimpse of seals at Ytri-Tunga beach.

Our private tailor-made day tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a unique and unforgettable experience that immerses you in the stunning natural beauty of Iceland's west coast. Starting from Reykjavik, your private guide will take you on a scenic drive through lava fields, past towering mountains and picturesque fishing villages, and along winding coastal roads that offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Throughout the tour, your guide will regale you with stories and legends about the area, sharing their knowledge of Icelandic history, culture, and geography. You'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos, and your guide will be happy to recommend local restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a delicious meal or snack. Personalized experience: Our private day tour of Snaefellsnes offers a personalized experience that caters to the specific interests and needs of each visitor. This means that you can explore the region at your own pace and focus on the attractions that interest you the most. Expert guide: Our knowledgeable and experienced guide will take you to the best spots in Snaefellsnes and provide you with fascinating insights into the region's history, culture, and natural wonders. You'll learn a lot and have a great time doing it! Comfortable vehicle: Our spacious and comfortable vehicle is equipped with all the amenities you need to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. You'll be able to relax and take in the stunning scenery without worrying about transportation logistics. Flexibility: Our private day tour of Snaefellsnes is completely flexible, meaning you can customize your itinerary to suit your preferences. Whether you want to spend more time hiking, sightseeing, or taking photos, we can accommodate your needs. Unforgettable memories: Snaefellsnes is one of the most beautiful and unique regions in Iceland, and our private day tour is designed to help you make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. You'll see incredible landscapes, meet friendly locals, and experience the magic of Iceland in a way that few visitors ever do. Here is a detailed itinerary for a Private Day Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Pick up from hotel in Reykjavik Visit Ytri-Tunga beach to see seals Explore Arnarstapi village and coastal cliffs Lunch break in Stykkisholmur Visit Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall Stop at Djupalonssandur black sand beach Explore Saxholl crater and lava fields Drop off at hotel in Reykjavik This itinerary allows for plenty of time to see some of the most beautiful and unique sights on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Please note that this is just a suggested itinerary and can be customized to fit your interests and preferences.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a location where nature, history, and folklore converge, creating a place of rugged beauty and mysterious charm. Jules Verne utilized the Snæfellsjökull glacier, the volcano at the western tip of the peninsula, as the gateway in his story "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Icelandic novelist and Nobel Laureate Halldór Laxness also chose this locale for one of his best novels, "Under the Glacier." Exploring the area through a private tour with a knowledgeable driver and vehicle is an excellent way to experience its extensive offerings. The drive along the peninsula 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. Noteworthy attractions encompass black sand beaches and the golden beach at Skarðsvík. 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. Rounding the peninsula provides a great vista of the glacier-capped volcano that rises from almost sea level up to 1446 m. On the northern side of the peninsula lies Kirkjufell, a cone-shaped mountain near the fishing village of Grundarfjörður. This area, also designated as a national park, offers numerous excellent photo opportunities. Snæfellsjökull is notable as a place where aliens were expected to land a few years ago, although the welcoming party did not locate them at that time or any other time, for that matter.