The highlights
- Gatklettur: the sea arch a short walk from the harbour, carved by waves out of the basalt cliff.
- The coastal walk: a marked path along the cliffs to Hellnar, about 2.5 km one way.
- Bárður Snæfellsás statue: a large stone figure at the village, based on the half-human, half-troll protector of the peninsula from the sagas. It is also a common starting point for the walk.
- Bird cliffs: the cliffs hold nesting seabirds in the warm months. Keep to the path and do not climb towards nests.
- The harbour: small and photogenic, with the basalt formations and the glacier behind.
- Snæfellsjökull: the glacier-capped volcano visible from the whole area, which you can drive towards or see on a guided trip.
- Kirkjufell: the famous mountain at Grundarfjörður, roughly an hour away.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Small-Group Tour
Small group from Reykjavik. 4.6/5 from over 500 reviews, as shown in October 2026.
Reykjavik: Small-Group Snæfellsnes Day Trip
4.8/5 from over 260 reviews, as shown in October 2026.
Snæfellsnes: Lava Fields ATV Tour by Snæfellsjökull Glacier
A different way to see the lava fields below the glacier. 4.6/5 from 38 reviews, as shown in October 2026.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Beyond the village
Within a short drive you also have Hellnar, Djúpalónssandur beach, the Lóndrangar pillars and the black church at Búðir. Our Snæfellsnes itinerary links them in one loop.
Our top pick: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Small-Group Tour
A simple half-day plan
Park at the harbour, see Gatklettur first, then walk the cliffs to Hellnar. Have a hot drink there and walk back, or arrange a lift. Allow at least two hours with photo stops.
Stay back from cliff edges. The cliffs are high and the ground can be wet and loose. Wind gusts are strong.
Frequently asked questions
What is Arnarstapi known for?
Its basalt sea cliffs, the Gatklettur rock arch, the coastal path to Hellnar and the statue of Bárður Snæfellsás, a figure from Icelandic saga tradition said to protect the peninsula.
Is Arnarstapi worth visiting?
Yes, if you like coastlines and short walks. It is one of the most scenic stops on Snæfellsnes and takes only a few hours.
Can you swim at Arnarstapi?
It is not a swimming spot. The sea is cold and the coast is rocky and exposed, so stay behind the edges and enjoy the views.
Hellnar walk
The Arnarstapi to Hellnar coastal walk: about 2.5 km one way, around an hour, along basalt cliffs and a lava field. Route, what to bring, and how to return.
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Búðir church
Búðakirkja, the black wooden church at Búðir on Snæfellsnes: how far from Arnarstapi, what to expect, photography tips and etiquette at this small church.
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Djúpalónssandur
Djúpalónssandur on Snæfellsnes: black pebble beach, the lifting stones and shipwreck remains. Distance from Arnarstapi, the walk down, safety and tours.
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Gatklettur arch
Gatklettur is the basalt sea arch near Arnarstapi harbour on Snæfellsnes. How to find it, how long it takes, safety at the cliff edge and when to photograph it.
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Hellnar
Hellnar on Snæfellsnes: a tiny fishing village 3 km from Arnarstapi with a sea cave, church, shoreline cafe and the coastal walk. How to visit and where to stay.
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Lóndrangar
Lóndrangar, two tall basalt pillars on the Snæfellsnes coast: how far from Arnarstapi, viewing paths, the nearby lighthouse and cliffs, birds and safety tips.
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Snæfellsjökull
Snæfellsjökull is the glacier-capped volcano above Arnarstapi on Snæfellsnes. How to see it, the seasonal mountain road to Ólafsvík, safety, and tours of the lava fields.
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