Things to do in Stykkisholmur

Berserkjahraun

Berserkjahraun, meaning Berserker lava field, is an ancient, 4,000-year-old lava landscape located near Stykkisholmur on the northern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula in Iceland, formed by the eruption of four scoria cones. The rugged, craggy black basalt surface is covered with thick green moss, interspersed with reddish-orange volcanic mineral layers and visible remnants of ancient volcanic craters, creating a rough yet colorful landscape. This lava field is famous in Iceland due to the legend in the Eyrbyggja Saga: around the 10th century, two Swedish berserkers carved a path through the lava field here, only to be murdered by their employer after completion and buried on the spot. To this day, the ancient path they carved and suspected burial mounds can still be seen, and modern archaeology has unearthed the skeletons of two large-statured males nearby, providing evidence for the legend.

Stykkishólmskirkja Church

Stykkishólmskirkja Church is an iconic building in the town of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in western Iceland, known for its unique postmodern design style. Built in 1990 and designed by architect Jón Haraldsson, the church draws inspiration from Iceland's natural landscape, particularly the geometric forms of volcanoes and basalt. The interior continues the Nordic minimalist style, featuring a bright white color palette and large glass windows that allow natural light to flood in, creating a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. Although small in scale, its highly artistic design contrasts sharply with traditional Icelandic wooden churches. It serves as a religious center for local residents and attracts many visitors due to its unique architectural aesthetics.

No. 1 of Night Attractions in Western Region

Snæfellsnes

Snæfellsnes is located in western Iceland and is known as "Iceland in miniature"—glaciers, volcanoes, lava fields, basalt cliffs, black sand beaches, fishing villages, and meadows. These typical Icelandic landscapes can almost all be found on this approx. 90 km long peninsula, which is why it is often recommended to travelers who have limited time and want to see the diverse landscapes of Iceland all at once. The Snæfellsjökull glacier volcano at the western end of the peninsula is a landmark here. French science fiction writer Jules Verne set it as the entrance to the center of the earth in Journey to the Center of the Earth. When the weather is clear, this glacier-capped volcanic cone is clearly visible across the bay. A self-drive tour around the peninsula is the most popular way to explore, with attractions spread out along the coast: Kirkjufell stands alone by the sea, resembling a straw hat, and Kirkjufellsfoss at the foot of the mountain is a highly popular photography spot. The coastal trail between Arnarstapi and Hellnar connects the Gatklettur stone arch and flocks of seabirds on the cliffs, while the nearby Londrangar basalt cliffs stand above the waves like a forest of towers. Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach preserves the lifting stones once used by fishermen to test their strength, and at the end of the beach, you can see the vast North Atlantic. At the golden beach of Ytri Tunga, seals are often seen basking on the rocks, and the Búðir Black Church stands between meadows and lava fields, creating a highly recognizable scene on the peninsula. On clear nights in the fall and winter, this area is far from city lights and is also a great place to chase the northern lights.

Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is a colorful fishing town on the north side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula in Iceland and an excellent starting point for exploring the peninsula. The town preserves many historic, colorful wooden houses, including the Norwegian House built in 1828, which is the oldest surviving two-story building in Iceland and now serves as a museum. Standing on a hill, the Library of Water is a highly creative contemporary art installation. Its transparent columns are filled with meltwater collected from 24 glaciers in Iceland, creating dreamy colors when illuminated. From the Súgandisey lighthouse, you can overlook the town's harbor and the island chain scenery of Breiðafjörður. Boat tours can weave through the thousands of islands in the bay, offering opportunities to spot seabirds, seals, and even dolphins. The town also features cultural venues such as a Viking era artifact exhibition and a volcano museum, offering a blend of natural and cultural experiences.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Western Region

Kirkjufell

Kirkjufell(meaning "Church Mountain" in Icelandic) stands on the north coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland, next to the town of Grundarfjörður. The entire mountain sits on a small peninsula surrounded by the sea on three sides, with its broad base extending directly into the water. The mountain's shape resembles a pointed straw hat resting by the sea, which is why it is often nicknamed "Hat Mountain" by tourists. The mountain walls are formed by layers of tilted rock stacked upwards, and the peak, at an altitude of over 400 m, has a distinct outline, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Iceland. A stream winds around one side of the foot of the mountain, and the adjacent Kirkjufellsfoss is a classic foreground for photography. The composition of the waterfall, the solitary peak, and the sea creates a powerful visual, and photography enthusiasts often wait here for the perfect light. In summer, there is the midnight sun, while in winter, it is a popular spot for photographing the northern lights, with green bands of light looking especially stunning against the silhouette of the mountain. It is also the filming location for the "Arrowhead Mountain" beyond the Wall in seasons 6 and 7 of the TV series Game of Thrones, and fans of the show might want to compare the scenes from the show to find the familiar outline. For most tourists, taking photos along the short trail next to the waterfall is enough to capture the classic composition. If you want to reach the summit, the ridge route is steep and slippery, suitable only for experienced climbers attempting it in summer with a guide. For the average tourist, viewing it from a distance is more than enough.

Bjarnarhofn Shark Museum

2026 Global 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal hot spring on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, set amid a stark black volcanic lava field. Its water comes from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power station—after deep geothermal water is extracted for power generation, the mineral-rich residual water flows into low-lying areas between the lava, gradually forming this geothermal lagoon. The water has a high silica content, and it is this silica that gives the lagoon its distinctive milky blue color, which stands out strikingly against the surrounding black lava. Steam rises from the surface year-round, and from a distance it looks like a glowing blue sapphire in the wilderness. The signature experience at the Blue Lagoon is to visit the in-water mask bar and apply silica mud to your face, enjoying a natural mud mask. This white silica mud is formed from minerals deposited from the geothermal water; it feels fine and silky to the touch and is a bathing ritual unique to the Blue Lagoon. The hot spring area also has a sauna, a steam room, and a steam cave, where you can alternate between steam bathing and outdoor soaking to experience the shift between hot and cold. If you happen to visit on a snowy day, soak in the warm water and look up as snowflakes fall onto the black lava—the contrast of ice and fire is unforgettable. The pale blue water of the entire lagoon, wreathed in steam, together with the rugged lava landscape, creates a scene full of Icelandic character.

Súgandisey Island Light Beacon

Lighthouse Súgandisey is a red lighthouse. This is the landmark of the town, which is particularly eye-catching. You can see it as soon as you enter the town, and there are special steps to go up. The composition of the mountain is very special, and the stones are arranged longitudinally.

Budir Church

Budir Churchis a small, all-black wooden church located in Búðir on the south coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and it is one of the few black churches in Iceland. Its black exterior is due to the traditional method of coating the wood with tar to protect it against sea winds and the damp climate, which has, in turn, given it a highly recognizable appearance. The church stands on the Búðahraun lava field, surrounded by black lava covered in moss, and on clear days, you can see the white ice cap of the Snæfellsjökull glacier in the distance. The stark contrast between the green moss in summer or white snow in winter and the black church, combined with the serene cemetery enclosed by low stone walls, makes it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts on the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

2026 Global 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Sky Lagoon

•Soak and relax in warm geothermal waters •Experience Icelandic bathing culture with the 7-step ritual •Enjoy the view from the infinity pool •Connect with Icelandic bathing traditions •Relax your mind, body and soul Nestled on a stark, stunning coastline, Sky Lagoon feels a world away from everyday life. Iceland's newest geothermal lagoon honours centuries-old bathing culture, embracing the warmth of a people tied closely to sea, sky and the power locked deep within the land. For centuries, Icelanders have trusted the calming, healing effects of geothermal water to help make them one of the happiest people on earth. Our 7-step rejuvenating Sky Ritual brings this culture to life for every guest and is included in the Sky Lagoon experience. Choose the admission package that suits your schedule and budget. Take part in the Ritual For centuries, Icelanders have trusted the calming, healing effects of geothermal water to help make them one of the happiest people on earth. Skjól Ritual brings this culture to life for every guest. Get a Sky Lagoon pass and immerse yourself in the warmth of an oceanside geothermal lagoon, where the dramatic North Atlantic Ocean stretches out before you. Take your relaxation deeper with a unique 7-step spa ritual included in the pass. Choose between the SÉR Pass or SAMAN Pass. With Sér Pass, you benefit from private changing facilities and shower cabins with signature botanical body products. With Saman Pass, you will use shared changing and showering facilities. Connect with Icelandic traditions and relax your mind, body, and soul. Complete the 7-step ritual to fully immerse yourself in Icelandic bathing traditions. Step 1 - Laug (Lagoon): Slow down and relax in the lagoon Step 2 - Kuldi (Cold): Cool down with the cold plunge Step 3 - Ylur (Warmth): Relax and enjoy the views in the sauna Step 4 - Súld (Drizzle): Refresh in a cold mist Step 5 - Mýkt (Softness): Invigorate and exfoliate with a rejuvenating body scrub Step 6 - Gufa (Steam) - Chill out in the steam room Step 7 - Saft (Juice) Taste the essence of krækiber — the crowberries that dot our lava fields.   After the experience, you can enliven your taste buds at Keimur Café and Smakk Bar. Discover and connect with the local flavors of the region.