Basalt Columns, Coastal Walks, Snæfellsjökull Glacier Views
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Overview
Arnarstapi is a small, historically significant hamlet situated on the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland. Once a bustling trading post and important fishing village, today it is famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, which includes towering basalt columns, striking sea cliffs, and the massive, overarching presence of the Snæfellsjökull glacier-volcano. The village itself is small, centered around a few charming buildings, and serves as a primary starting point for exploring the protected lands of Snæfellsjökull National Park.
The area is steeped in Icelandic folklore, most notably the saga of Bárður Snæfellsás, a half-man, half-troll figure who is said to be the protector of the region. Arnarstapi offers one of the most accessible and beautiful coastal walks in Iceland, showcasing the relentless power of the Atlantic Ocean carving strange and magnificent shapes into the ancient lava fields. For travelers seeking raw, untouched nature and dramatic geology—and perhaps a glimpse of the famous glacier that inspired Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth—Arnarstapi is an essential stop.
Take the incredibly scenic, approximately 2.5 km path carved through a lava field that connects Arnarstapi with the neighboring hamlet of Hellnar. This relatively easy hike offers continuous, breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, lava flows, and roaring sea caves below.
Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes, as the path can be uneven and wet, even in summer.
Walk a short distance from the Arnarstapi harbor to find Gatklettur (Hole Rock), a magnificent natural stone arch carved by the sea. This unique formation allows the ocean and sky to be framed by the rock itself, making it one of Iceland's most photographed sea arches.
Tip: Try to capture the photo when the waves crash through the arch, creating a dramatic spray.
Locate the large, impressive stone sculpture near the harbor dedicated to Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-man, half-troll protector of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This statue serves as a monument to the region’s rich history and magical sagas.
Tip: Read a short summary of the Bárður Saga beforehand to fully appreciate the local legend.
Spend time near the Arnarstapi pier marveling at the columnar basalt rock formations. These striking hexagonal pillars were formed by ancient, slow-cooling lava flows and dramatically frame the small harbor and surrounding cliffs.
Tip: Look for nesting sites along the cliff ledges, as this area is a haven for seabirds during the nesting season (late spring/summer).
Drive a few kilometers east of Arnarstapi to find this impressive, hidden ravine slicing into the side of the towering mountain Botnsfjall. While the full gorge exploration can be challenging, even viewing the deep, narrow opening from the outside is a spectacular sight.
Tip: The walk to the mouth of the gorge is rocky and steep; proceed with caution and only if conditions are dry.
On a clear day, look inland to see the towering, snow-capped Snæfellsjökull, the dormant stratovolcano crowned by a glacier that dominates the landscape. The glacier is part of the National Park and is a symbol of the peninsula.
Tip: Early mornings often offer the clearest views before clouds can gather around the mountain peak.
Aboard
Le Bellot for Tauck
From
Reykjavik, Iceland
7 Sailings
Jun 8 - Jul 20, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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