6-Day South and West Iceland Self-Drive Tour: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes

Today, you head west to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often described as Iceland in miniature due to the incredible variety of landscapes found within a relatively small area. Following the southern side of the peninsula, the scenery shifts constantly between lava fields, beaches, cliffs, and volcanic formations.

As you approach the peninsula, the solitary Eldborg crater rises from the flat land on one side of the road, while volcanic mountains and craters stretch across the other. One of the first highlights is the impressive Gerðuberg basalt wall, where perfectly formed hexagonal columns create a striking natural façade. Nearby, you pass Ölkelda, where you can safely taste the water directly from the source.

Continuing along the coast, stop at Búðir, where a small black wooden church stands isolated in the Búðahraun lava field. A short walk leads to the nearby shoreline, where reddish sand contrasts sharply with dark lava formations and the open Atlantic.

Further west is Arnarstapi, a coastal village known for its dramatic cliffs and rich birdlife. A walk from the harbor along the cliff tops reveals columnar basalt formations and nesting seabirds, with sweeping views over the ocean. On clear days, the Snæfellsjökull glacier dominates the horizon. Both Arnarstapi and the nearby village of Hellnar offer cafés and places to stop for lunch or refreshments.

As you continue, the rugged Lóndrangar basalt cliffs rise from the shoreline, followed by Dritvík and Djúpalónssandur, a striking black pebble beach once used by fishermen heading out to sea. The area still bears traces of this harsh maritime past.

For those interested in Iceland’s underground world, there is an option to visit Vatnshellir lava cave. The lava tube extends for more than 200 meters and descends around 35 meters below the surface, revealing colorful rock layers formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

In Hellissandur, you can visit the maritime museum and enjoy one of the best viewpoints of Snæfellsjökull glacier. According to legend, and famously described in Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth, this glacier-covered volcano marks the entrance to the center of the Earth.

The drive continues through small fishing villages such as Ólafsvík and Grundarfjörður, where Mount Kirkjufell and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall offer one of the most photographed views in West Iceland. Along the way, you may notice small waterfalls cascading down hillsides, sometimes drifting sideways in the wind.

Overnight on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. 1 night accommodation at Fosshotel Hellnar or similar. Standard double room with private facilities and breakfast included.