Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi is a historic village on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. The area is known for its beautiful nature and has many charming, old houses that are worth visiting.

 

Ever since the settlement, the region has been popular due to its natural harbor and the rich herring grounds in the surrounding waters. Later, the city gained status as a popular trading port in the area.

Denmark invested a lot of money in Arnarstapi through the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries – but mostly in its own interests. Many of these buildings still stand today, such as the Danish prefect’s residence, which was built in the 1770s.

Visit the beach at Arnarstapi and experience the special, arched rock formation, Gatklettur. The interplay between the waves of the sea and the rays of the sun creates a unique experience here. It is a very popular place for both photographers and bird enthusiasts, as in this area there are large colonies of the Arctic tern.

From Arnarstapi to Hellnar there is a hiking route through the lava field, Hellnahraun. This route is very popular due to the impressive nature of the surrounding landscape.