Previously a fishing hub, Arnarstapi is a village on the southern tip of the Snaefellsnes peninsula where visitors can stop for fuel before entering Snfellsjökull National Park. The region is well-known for its stunning natural surroundings and includes a number of historic and attractive homes with intriguing histories.
History of Arnarstapi
The Bárar saga Snaefellsáss, an old Icelandic saga that describes the half-human, half-ogre who once lived on the Snfellsnes peninsula, contains references to towns in and around Arnarstapi. Since his passing, he has been regarded as the region’s protector spirit.
Due to its natural harbor, which made fishing in the nearby seas’ abundant herring grounds simple, the area was well-liked by residents. Arnarstapi developed significantly as a trading harbor when Norway, and to a much greater extent when they took over, Denmark, were in charge of Iceland.
Arnarstapi’s population drastically decreased during the industrial revolution, which was typical in the rural areas at the time. Reykjavk now housed the great majority of Iceland’s jobs, which reduced prospects for part-time fisherman and their enterprises and reduced the town’s size to that of a hamlet.
Arnarstapi, like many other communities in the region, had a resurgence as Iceland’s infrastructure rapidly improved following independence in 1943 and more people from abroad started to discover the numerous wonders of this island as a tourism destination.
Although trade and fishing are still important to the economy, tourism and other services now take precedence. The community offers a variety of lodging alternatives, as well as vital services for visitors to the peninsula, including tour operators.
Nature and Sites around Arnarstapi
A unique draw to Arnarstapi is its beach. Its Gatklettur, an eroded circular stone arch, is where a wonderful spectacle is produced by the interaction of tremendous waves and sunlight. Both these characteristics make the area very well-liked among photographers, as do the large colonies of arctic terns that nest nearby.
Due to the stunning scenery, a former horse path through the lava field Hellnahraun is a very popular hiking route.
A unique draw to Arnarstapi is its beach. Its Gatklettur, an eroded circular stone arch, is where a wonderful spectacle is produced by the interaction of tremendous waves and sunlight. Both these characteristics make the area very well-liked among photographers, as do the large colonies of arctic terns that nest nearby.
Due to the stunning scenery, a former horse path through the lava field Hellnahraun is a very popular hiking route.
However, it is never advisable to spend too much time in Arnarstapi while touring the peninsula. Despite how nice it is, spending more time nearby is simply necessary. For instance, the community is located on the edge of Snaefellsjökull National Park, which is home to the Snfellsjökull glacier and volcano, whose majesty has long served as an inspiration to writers and artists.
There are just three National Parks in the nation, but the beauty of the peninsula means that it is not the only place you should visit. The Lóndrangar basalt cliffs, enormous lava towers that from a distance resemble a fortress, are located not far from Arnarstapi.
Several nearby lava caves, including Vatnshellir and Sönghellir and two others (the former of which is only accessible on a guided tour). Raufeldsgjá Gorge is a stunning gorge in a mountaintop that may be accessed by climbing into it.
Even though it is a little further away, Kirkjufell peak in the north of the peninsula is a breathtaking sight.
