The village of Arnarstapi, or Stapi for short, is a popular tourist destination on the elongated Snæfellsnes peninsula. Although Arnarstapi is very small with only a few dozen inhabitants, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in western Iceland. It serves as an ideal starting point for hikes and overnight stays while travelling around western Iceland, as well as for expeditions to the 1,400-metre high Snæfellsjökull glacier.

On the way to Arnarstapi, stop at the isolated and interesting black and white church of Búðakirkja, originally dating from 1703, located near the turn off the main road number 54.

Buoakirkja

Arnarstapi winter

Gatklettur Rock Bridge

A very interestingly rugged coastline made of dark basalt stones, but covered in lush green grass, beckons for walks. It forms dozens of small coves, rocky spurs and islets.

The most famous formation is undoubtedly the Stone Bridge, or rather the Rock Sea Gate called Gatklettur, which is a favourite home for many species of birds. It is located just a few metres from the shore and the viewing platform about 500 metres from the centre of Arnarstapi.

Snæfellsnes

Hellnar lava field

The most popular approx. 3 km long (one way) trail leads along the coast from Arnarstapi to the settlement of Hellnar through an ancient dried lava field overgrown with green grass. You'll have to return the same way, but that's okay - the trail is easy, well-marked, and you'll be treated to beautiful views of the sea cliffs and mountains in the background the whole way.

Accommodation

Hotels and guesthouses right in Arnarstapi are quite expensive and prices start at 220 eur per night, see the list of Aranrstapi accommodation.

We would choose cheaper accommodation within the Snæfellsnes peninsula, such as the relaxed Við Hafið Guesthouse in Ólafsvík, 37km away.

How to get there?

Arnarstapi lies on the asphalt and year-round passable road number 574, a total of 193 km from Reykjavík (route map: google.com/maps) and 50 km from the famous Kirkjufell mountain, which you can combine with Arnarstapi in one trip.