A spectacular coastal landscape on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famous for the Gatklettur arch, the Stone Bridge, and the start of the scenic coastal walk to Hellnar.
Story & Legend
Once a booming fishing port and trading post for the Danish crown, Arnarstapi is now a quiet hamlet guarded by the massive stone statue of Bárður Snæfellsás. According to the sagas, Bárður was a half-troll, half-man who vanished into the Snæfellsjökull glacier to become the guardian spirit of the peninsula. His presence is said to protect locals from polar bears and bad weather.
Geology & Science
The coastline here is a dramatic display of columnar basalt eroded by the Atlantic waves. The most famous formation is Gatklettur (Hellnar Arch), a circular arch naturally carved into the rock. The cliffs are nesting grounds for thousands of Kittiwakes and Arctic Terns during summer. This coastal stretch is the starting point for a popular 2.5km hiking trail along the cliffs to the neighboring village of Hellnar.
Safety
The Arctic Terns (Kria) nest here in early summer and are extremely aggressive if you approach their nests – hold a stick above your head to stop them diving. The cliff edges are unstable and often undercut by the sea; stay well back from the edge. The walk to Hellnar (2.5km) is easy but rocky.
Photo Tip
Walk the coastal path towards Hellnar to find the stone bridge (Stone Bridge of Arnarstapi). It looks precarious but is wide enough to walk on for a dramatic photo. The statue of Bárður makes for a great silhouette against the glacier in the background.
Insider Tip
Don't just snap a photo of the giant stone troll and leave. The real magic is the 2.5km coastal hiking trail connecting Arnarstapi to the neighboring village of Hellnar, offering the best cliff views in the west.
Best Time to Visit
Mid-morning. The sun illuminates the ocean side of the cliffs perfectly, highlighting the thousands of nesting seabirds.
What to Bring
A windbreaker is mandatory. The wind coming off the open Atlantic Ocean onto these unprotected cliffs can be fierce enough to knock you off balance.
