Jonty travels…

Jutting out from the West Coast of Iceland, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is home to an impressive coastline, epic even by Iceland standards.

Stykkisholmur
The northern side of the peninsula is home to a number of picturesque fishing towns. Stykkisholmur is the largest, home to an impressive headland past the harbour, and a number of historic buildings.

Grundarfjorour
This was similar to Stykkisholmur, but in a more impressive setting, surrounded by mountains, in particular the distinctive Kirkjufell.

Kirkjufellsfoss
Just down the road was our daily scenic waterfall stop, interesting as much for it’s backdrop as the waterfall itself.

Djúpalónssandur
Almost all (see below) beaches in Iceland are black sand, but this was distinctive for the rusting washed up remains of a fishing trawler.

Strondin trail
A very windswept coastal trail along the cliff tops from Hellnar to Arnarstapi, perfect for fans of unusual rock formations, birds and fresh air. There was surprisingly little to prevent you from disappearing down one of the holes in the cliff.  

Búðir
Home to the only yellow sand beach on Iceland, formed of millions of shell fragments. They’ve nabbed part of it to build a fake beach in Reykjavik. There is also a picturesque and unusually black church. Grábrók
Not on the peninsula but heading south toward Reykjavik, but worth including. The Grábrók volcano crater is a wonderful combination of classic Icelandic green grass and black volcanic rock, with great views both into the crater and across the surrounding area.