The natural wonders of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula abound so we quite enjoyed a return visit during our recent trip to Iceland. During this visit, we spent a nice pause exploring the bird cliffs at Hellnar. We only had time to spy the cliffs from afar on our previous visit. So, we welcomed the chance to slow down and explore.
We arrived in Hellnar on a stunningly sunny afternoon. As we left our car, we already could see the cliffs in the distance were quite alive with birds fluttering around. There is an adorable little cliffside coffee shop called Fjöruhúsið not too far from the bird cliffs. We descended down a path from the parking lot to take a little pause there.
 |
| Enjoying a waffle with fresh cream and preserves at Fjöruhúsið near the bird cliffs of Hellnar, Iceland. |
I delight in having waffles while visiting Iceland. I had my first Icelandic waffle on Viðey Island during an adventure riding Icelandic horses. Such a magical experience, so eating Icelandic waffles has taken my back ever since. We popped into the cafe and ordered a waffle to split and two coffees. We sat outside enjoying the striking landscape while reposing for a bit. Our coffees came in little tea cups which made the moment even more special. The cafe is also known for its fish soup if you are looking for lunch on your visit.
 |
| Grayish cliffs with rippled folds and chunky rocks cut a striking form on the coast of Hellnar, Iceland. |
After enjoying our coffee and nibbling, we made our way to the rocky beach that leads up to the cliffs and a cave. We marveled at the intriguing folding of the cliff nearest to us. The lower end of the folds appears to ripple. Pretty cool! We first visited Hellnar on a gray and rainy day. Seeing the cliffs in the sunlight was spectacular!
To explore more on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, see my Snaefellsnes Peninsula Quick Guide.
 |
| Depending on the light, the cliffs of Hellnar can look varying colors of black and gray. |
As we approached the cliff, we could spy the antics of the birds. Such a true joy to watch! They are pretty loud but their voices full of joy for sure. There is a bit of a cave that some wanderers entered.
 |
| Weathered rocks, tall grasses and yellow flowers create a beautiful scene along a trail in Hellnar. |
After exploring the rocky beach, we embarked on the trail away from the cliff towards Arnarstappi, the nearby town. We were pretty surprised that we could no longer hear the birds as soon as we got on the other side of the cliff. Pretty cool!
A stop at either Hellnar or Arnarstapi will present an opportunity for a nice 1.5-mile hike between the two towns taking the same trail we embarked on for a short period. If you are able to take the trail, there are more views to enjoy. There also are arches and other formations in the area to view.
For us, we had to move on to make our last few stops on the Snaefellsnes on our way to our apartment. We savored such a beautiful afternoon in Hellnar loving the natural surroundings as well as the cafe.
Post a Comment