Arnarstapi is a small fishing and tourist village on the south side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, at the foot of Mt. Stapafell and about 190 km (120 miles) from Reykjavik. Its draw is the coast: sea cliffs, lava formations, a basalt arch and a 2.5 km walk to the neighbouring village of Hellnar. This page contains partner links: if you book, we earn a commission at no cost to you.
Highlights
The cliffs and harbour
a long-used natural landing place for small boats; the docks were renovated in 2002.
Gatklettur (Arch Rock)
a basalt rock arch shaped by the sea, about 0.5 km from the village, and one of its best-known photo spots.
The Arnarstapi to Hellnar walk
about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) one way along an old horse trail across the Hellnahraun lava field, past cliffs and beach.
The Bárður saga statue
a statue of Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-human, half-ogre figure of the local saga.
Seabirds
arctic terns, kittiwakes, fulmars and gulls nest along the cliffs in the breeding season, and puffins can sometimes be seen in summer on the peninsula.
Practical info
Tips
- The walk takes about an hour each way; check the weather first, as wind on the cliffs is strong. Arctic terns defend their nests in early summer, so keep to the path and carry a hat. The village has a few seasonal restaurants and cafes serving fish and Icelandic dishes, and the Arnarstapi Center offers a hotel, guesthouses and a campsite. The village is part of a classic Snæfellsnes day: see Snæfellsnes peninsula and Kirkjufell. The small-group Snæfellsnes day trip from Reykjavik is rated 4.8 out of 5 from 273 reviews on 8 November 2026; the price depends on the date. For a night on the peninsula, see where to stay in Iceland.
How to get there
Arnarstapi is on the south coast of Snæfellsnes, between Hellnar and Breiðavík in Snæfellsbær. From Reykjavik it is about 190 km by road; a day tour is the alternative to driving.
Opening hours
Nearby
See on the map →
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