Arnarstapi, Iceland: A Scenic Coastal Village with Epic Views
If you’re exploring Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Arnarstapi is one of those places you simply can’t skip. This tiny fishing village, perched on the southern edge of the peninsula, offers dramatic sea cliffs, lava rock formations, and one of the most scenic walking paths in Iceland. Whether you're a photographer, hiker, or just someone chasing that classic Icelandic coastal vibe — Arnarstapi delivers.
Where is Arnarstapi?
Located on the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Arnarstapi is just off Route 574 and easily reachable by car.
Drive Time from Reykjavik: ~2.5 hours
Nearby Spots: Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge (10 min), Búðakirkja Black Church (15 min), Snæfellsjökull Glacier
There’s a small parking lot near the main viewpoint, and everything in the village is walkable.
Why Visit Arnarstapi?
What makes Arnarstapi so memorable is its mix of wild coastal beauty and walkable accessibility. The star attraction here is the Arnarstapi to Hellnar coastal walk — a scenic path that winds along lava cliffs, blowholes, and sea arches, with constant views of Snæfellsjökull glacier towering in the background.
Other highlights include:
Gatklettur (Arch Rock): A natural stone arch with waves crashing below — an iconic photo spot.
Basalt Sea Cliffs: Home to seabirds like kittiwakes and arctic terns in summer.
Statue of Bárður Snæfellsás: A giant stone figure honoring the half-man, half-troll protector of the region from Icelandic sagas.
Coastal Lava Formations: Everywhere you look, the landscape seems sculpted by time and fire.
Things To Do in Arnarstapi
1. Walk the Arnarstapi to Hellnar Trail
This coastal trail is a 2.5 km (1.5 mi) walk one way, easy and incredibly scenic. The cliffs drop dramatically into the ocean, and the sound of waves and birds echoes along the trail. You can walk both ways or park at one end and shuttle back.
2. Explore the Harbor Area
Although small, Arnarstapi's harbor area has a charming old-world feel, with colorful houses and fishing boats nestled in a protected cove.
3. Photograph the Landscape
If you’re into photography, come during golden hour — the light along the cliffs, especially around Gatklettur, is phenomenal.
4. Grab a Bite or Warm Up
Stop at Arnarstapi Center or Fjöruhúsið Café (in Hellnar) for coffee, soup, and a warm-up after a breezy walk.
Photography Tips
Drone: The sea cliffs and lava fields look surreal from above. Arnarstapi is drone-friendly, but always respect wildlife zones.
Wide Angle: Bring a wide lens to capture the full scale of the cliffs and sea arches.
Gatklettur: Shoot it from different angles — it looks completely different depending on the tide and time of day.
Golden Hour: Light wraps beautifully around the cliffs during sunrise and sunset.
Tips Before You Go
Weather Changes Fast: Bring a rain jacket and dress in layers.
Watch Your Step: The cliffs are unguarded and can be slippery, especially in wind or rain.
Crowds: It can get busy mid-day in peak season. Visit early or late for a quieter experience.
Visit Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge Nearby
Just 10 minutes up the road from Arnarstapi lies Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, one of Iceland’s most mystical natural formations. Hidden in the cliffs of Botnsfjall Mountain, this narrow gorge lets you step into a mossy, shadowy chasm that feels straight out of an epic. If you're already in the area, it’s a must-see — especially for anyone who loves sagas, solitude, or dramatic landscape photography.
Arnarstapi may be small, but it packs in everything you could want from an Icelandic coastal stop: rugged cliffs, folklore, epic hikes, and endless photo ops. Whether you’re stopping by on a Snæfellsnes road trip or planning a longer stay, this village captures the soul of Iceland’s wild west coast.