Arnarstapi

Picturesque fishing village on the southern side of the Snaefells' peninsula

Discover the amazing truth about Jules Verne, Journey to the center of the earth at Arnarstapa
Click to see larger image

Arnarstapi is a fishing hamlet at the foot of the low Mt. Stapafell on the southern side of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. According to the Bardar-Saga, this mythological person, half a man and half an ogre, lived in a cave in the northern slopes of this mountain. The lighthouse of Arnarstapi was built in 1941. Arnarstapi was an important trading post in the past. The cliffs along the coastline are occupied by myriads of birds, kittiwakes, fulmars and razorbills and many others nest in the area.

There is quite a large arctic tern colony in the village itself. A walk along the coastline is recommended to watch the birds and the magnificent lava formations. Three blowholes, connected with the sea, open up on the way. When the wind is blowing hard from southerly directions they create fountains of ocean water, and then its not advisable to stand too near.

People from all over the world, believers in the energy radiation of Mt. Snaefellsjokull, gather in the area every summer to recharge their "batteries" and rock crystals. An interesting hiking trail connects two fishing hamlets, Hellnar and Arnarstapi. From Arnarstapi people also hike to the top of the glacier or all the way to the fishing village Olafsvik on the northern side of the peninsula.

Bicycle Trips

Bicycle Trips are great option for those who want to enjoy nature and have open-air freedom. It's easy to bike to many of the interesting places in the vicinity of Arnarstapi.

Snjofell has several 10-speed bicycles for rent on either long or short trips around the area.

Hiking

The Strand
The strand between Arnarstapi and Hellnar is of dramatic rugged cliffs. It is fascinating to see how the different forces of nature have shaped this area through the ages.

Laugarbrekka
It is possible to walk to the ancient regional meeting place and explore the ruins of the farmstead Laugarbrekka, birthplace of Gudrun Thorbjarnardottir. At Laugarbrekka is the grave of Axlar-Bjorn and highest on the hillock is the pool of Bardur Snaefellsas.

Just to the west is Laugarvatn where "some" see dancing elves and hidden people. From there it is possible to follow the road back to Arnarstapi or go lower along the Hellnahraun lava flow to the Mariulind springs and onwards along the "Midgatan" way through the lava area (along the electric power line) to Arnarstapi

Mt. Stapafell / Cave Songhellir
One can also hike a ring around Stapafell mountain, stopping at Songhellir cave. It is likewise possible to go to the top of Stapafell, which is about 526 meters (about 1,700 feet).

Solvahamar / Raudfeldargja
Another route is out to Solvahamar and on to Latur or up along the Hnausahraun lavas, stopped at the chasm, Raudfeldargja. Then follow the road back to Arnarstapi. From Solvahamar there is an old horse trail below the glacier which can be followed to Budir.

Hike on the Glacier
A hike on the glacier Snaefellsjokull can be treacherous for anyone. It is best to follow routes established for the snowmobiles and snow cats.