Iceland is already a magical country, filled with mystic landscapes, but there’s something even more enchanting about the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Located just two hours north of Reykjavik by car, visitors will find charming fishing villages, black sand beaches, and unique rock formations that have inspired writers and artists for centuries.
This is your ultimate quick guide to visiting the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Discovering the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
With famous works of literature and perhaps equally famous TV series set to the backdrop of the dramatic scenery of Snaefellsnes Peninsula, you know that this must be a special place.
The name “Snæfellsnes” literally means “Snow Mountain Peninsula,” derived from the iconic glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano that dominates the landscape. This glacier-topped peak has long inspired awe, serving as the setting for Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Center of the Earth and drawing many modern adventurers seeking to experience its mystique.
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” because it encapsulates so many of the country’s defining features within a compact area—from lava fields to fjords, black sand beaches, and geothermal areas. It’s the perfect microcosm of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Fun fact: Local legend has it that the Snæfellsjökull volcano is one of Earth’s energy centers, believed to have supernatural powers. Some even say that on certain clear nights, you can feel the spiritual energy emanating from the glacier—just another reason why the peninsula holds such allure for visitors.
All of Iceland’s best features collide in this corner of the country, from waterfalls to black sand beaches to volcanoes and craggy seaside cliffs. Spot puffins, trek through lava fields, and discover archaeological sites all along the way.
This might be one of Iceland’s best road trips for its high concentration of incredible sights! Considering that the start of the trip, just past the tiny fishing village of Borgarnes, is only two hours from Reykjavik, it’s also easily accessible.
Geography, Landscape, and Culture
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is known for its diverse and dramatic landscapes. You’ll find everything from lava fields to sea arches on this 56-mile-long peninsula.
Interesting rock formations, including basalt cliffs, stone arches surrounded by sea, and lava frozen in time are just some of the geographical features you’ll stumble upon.
It’s this awe-inspiring terrain that inspired Jules Vernes famous novel, “Journey to the Center of the Earth” and provided the backdrop for several scenes in Game of Thrones.
Road Conditions on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Summer vs. Winter
Road conditions on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula vary significantly depending on the season, making it important to plan ahead and choose the right vehicle for your trip.
In Summer time (May to September)
During the summer months, road conditions are generally excellent, with all major routes, including Route 54, fully accessible and well-maintained. The weather is mild, with long daylight hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the peninsula’s highlights.
Most roads are paved, but there are a few gravel sections that might require extra caution, especially if you’re not used to driving on uneven surfaces. During this time, a standard 2WD vehicle should be sufficient for most of your trip, as the majority of the roads remain free from significant obstacles like snow or ice.
In Winter time (October to April)
Winter on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a completely different experience. While the snow-covered landscape is stunningly beautiful, road conditions can be challenging due to ice, snow, and strong winds. Some sections of Route 54 may become slippery, especially near higher elevations and along exposed coastal areas.
Winter storms can roll in quickly, causing whiteout conditions, so it’s essential to keep an eye on weather forecasts and road condition updates on sites like road.is. For winter driving, a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended to ensure better traction and control. Most rental agencies, including Firefly Iceland, offer vehicles equipped with studded tires for added safety during the winter months.
- Guide to Iceland in October, Iceland in November, Iceland in December, Iceland in January, Iceland in February, Iceland in March, Iceland in April
How to Get There by Car
The most efficient and flexible way to reach the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is by renting a car. Starting from Reykjavik, you’ll head north along Route 1 (the Ring Road) until you reach the town of Borgarnes, which is considered the gateway to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
From there, you’ll switch to Route 54, which winds its way across the peninsula, connecting you to all the major attractions. The drive from Reykjavik to Borgarnes takes about 1 hour, and from there, it’s roughly another hour to reach the start of the peninsula’s key sights.
Driving along the peninsula is straightforward, but remember to keep your fuel tank topped up—there are limited gas stations once you leave Borgarnes, especially if you plan to venture into the more remote areas.
Best Rental Cars for Different Seasons
For Summer Trips:
If you’re planning to visit during the summer, a compact or mid-sized 2WD vehicle like the VW Polo or VW Golf would be more than enough for navigating the paved roads and occasional gravel paths. These cars are fuel-efficient and perfect for a laid-back summer road trip across the peninsula.
For Winter Adventures:
Winter on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula demands a more robust vehicle. A 4×4 rental like the VW Tiguan or the 4WD Dacia Duster is ideal for tackling icy roads and unpredictable weather. These vehicles offer better stability and control in winter conditions, and with studded tires, you’ll feel much more confident driving in the snow and ice.
No matter the season, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you want to take in the stunning sights. Whether you’re visiting in the lush summer months or during the crisp winter, Firefly Iceland has the perfect rental car to get you there safely and comfortably.
What are the Key Attractions?
You could easily spend a week exploring every nook and cranny of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. We’ll help you narrow down your list with these key attractions and must-see sites.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
A national park at the tip of the peninsula that protects the famous Snaefellsjokull glacier, visitors will find bird colonies (including Arctic terns!) and rock formations like lava fields during summer. The true star of the show is the glacier!
Budir Black Church
Rebuilt on the site of an original church in 1848, the Budir Black Church makes for an amazing photo opportunity with stoic mountains in the background.
Ytri Tunga Beach
Wildlife lovers will love Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its seal colony. June and July are the best times to spot seals. This also happens to be a rare white sand beach in Iceland!
Djupalonssandur Black Sand Beach
One of Iceland’s most beautiful black sand beaches, Djupalonssandur is a must-see stretch of coast in Snaefellsnes. You’ll also find historic lifting stones and the remnants of a British trawler.
Kirkjufell mountain
Possibly the most famous landscape on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Kirkjufell Mountain was the backdrop for iconic scenes in Game of Thrones. Situated on a tiny peninsula itself, hike out to the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall for epic views.
Fishing Villages
Snaefellsnes West Iceland is dotted with charming fishing villages like Arnarstapi and Hellnar. If you want to visit the largest town, Stykkisholmur offers yummy restaurants, a lighthouse, and museums to explore.
Ondverdarnes Lighthouse
Located on the very tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the neon orange Ondverdarnes Lighthouse makes for a fun pitstop. You’ll also likely see a wide variety of bird species.
Gerduberg Basalt columns Cliffs
You can’t visit Snaefellsnes without stopping at the Gerduberg Basalt Cliffs. These rare and unique rock formations are formed by cooling lava. Even better, they’re located just off Route 54.
Svöðufoss Waterfall
One of the most impressive waterfalls on the peninsula, Svöðufoss Waterfall is tucked at the edge of northern Snaefellsnes. Spilling 32’ over basalt cliffs, this is a must-see!
Of course, this is just scratching the surface of what it’s possible to discover on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula!
Activities and Tours on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Aside from stunning geography, there are plenty of amazing activities and tours to take on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
- Whale Watching Tours: The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an excellent place to go whale watching, seeking out humpback whales (and more!) as they migrate to Icelandic waters to breed and feed. The best time to go whale watching in Iceland is in summer, from June to August although whales can be seen from April to October. Some whale species, like sperm whales and orcas, can be seen as early as April although they are typically more rarely spotted.
- Cave Tours: Get a sense for what Jules Verne was talking about in “Journey to the Center of the Earth” on a tour of the Vatnshellir Cave. You’ll descend 115’ below the earth’s surface, exploring this colorful, 8,000 year old cave. This tour can be done year-round, including in winter.
- Hot Springs: There are several natural hot springs scattered around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Because they’re lesser-known, these are a great spot to visit if you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path Iceland hot spring experience. Several isolated hot springs are located on the peninsula, including the Sturlungalaug and Landbrotalaug hot springs. If you’re looking for a more structured experience, you can also take a dip in the geothermal waters of Lysulaugar, although you’ll need to visit in summer for this one!
- Northern Lights Watching: The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is one of the best spots to catch the breathtaking northern lights during the winter months. With little light pollution and expansive skies, visitors have an excellent chance of witnessing the colorful aurora borealis dancing above Snæfellsjökull and the surrounding landscapes. The best months for northern lights viewing are from September to March.
- Snowcat tour: There were a few Guided glacier hiking tours take you up this iconic peak, offering panoramic views over the peninsula, but due to the extreme difficulty, now the glacier hiking tours are replaced by the Snowcat tours. On a clear day, you can even spot the Westfjords and Reykjanes Peninsula.
- Seal Watching at Ytri Tunga Beach: Visit Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its seal colony. Seals can often be seen sunbathing on the rocks in the warmer months, and it’s one of the few places in Iceland where you can reliably spot these playful creatures. The best time to see seals is during the summer, from June to August.
- Photography Tours: The diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula make it a photographer’s dream. Join a guided photography tour and capture stunning shots of the Kirkjufell mountain, black sand beaches, volcanic craters, and the rugged coastline. These tours are available year-round, with winter tours offering the added bonus of photographing the northern lights.
Planning Your Trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Best Way of Getting There
The most efficient way to reach the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is by renting your own car and driving. Most visitors will be driving to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik, a journey that takes about two hours.
Snaefellsnes West Iceland is an Iceland destination that can be visited at any time of year. If you decide to go in winter, make sure to rent a 4×4 vehicle as there’s a chance you’ll run into snow and ice.
Luckily, most roads on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula are paved, making it easy to navigate. Always check the current road (road.is) and weather conditions (vedur.is) before heading out.
Why Choose Firefly Iceland Car Rental?
We don’t mind tooting our own horn—Firefly Iceland offers some of the least expensive car rentals in Iceland(especially with our older model cheap fleet)! But that doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing quality vehicles or excellent service. Despite our low prices, you can be sure you’re renting a reliable car, whether it be a standard or 4×4. You’ll also save on gas along the way as each set of keys is equipped with a coupon card at select gas stations around the country!
Is Snæfellsnes Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often considered one of the hidden gems of Iceland, offering a condensed version of the country’s most iconic landscapes all in one easily accessible region.
Whether you’re fascinated by volcanic craters, enchanting black sand beaches, or breathtaking waterfalls, Snæfellsnes has it all. Its unique combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit for any traveler.
Additionally, it’s less crowded compared to more popular spots like the Golden Circle, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy Iceland’s wilderness in peace.
From witnessing the mighty Snæfellsjökull to capturing the northern lights, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences awaiting you. If you’re looking for a diverse yet manageable road trip, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is definitely worth adding to your itinerary!
Conclusion
There’s no better way of exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula than by car and no better company to rent with than Firefly Iceland. Get started planning your road trip to Snaefellsnes West Iceland today and book your car well in advance to ensure you’re ready to hit the road when you arrive in the Land of Fire and Ice!
