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Arnarstapi, often called Stapi, is a small fishing and tourism village on the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland. It lies beneath the distinctive mountain Stapafell, close to Snæfellsjökull National Park, and is best known for its basalt sea cliffs, natural rock arches, seabird colonies and coastal walking trail to Hellnar.
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A small working harbour surrounded by columnar basalt, narrow ravines, caves and wave-cut formations. The cliffs support nesting fulmars, kittiwakes and other seabirds. Remain behind barriers and well back from exposed edges.
Arch Rock
A circular sea arch carved into the basalt cliffs by wave action. It is one of Arnarstapi's best-known formations and a popular photography stop. Seabirds frequently nest on the surrounding cliffs.
A large stone figure created by sculptor Ragnar Kjartansson in honour of Bárður, the human–giant figure from Bárðar saga Snæfellsáss who became the legendary guardian spirit of Snæfellsjökull.
A distinctive 526-m palagonite mountain rising behind the village. According to local folklore, it is inhabited by hidden people, and the rock known as Fellskross at its summit was once regarded as a sacred symbol. The mountain is best appreciated from the village unless properly prepared for rough hiking.
Arnarstapi–Hellnar coastal trail
An easy coastal hike of approximately 2.5 km each way through the Hellnahraun lava field. The route passes basalt cliffs, old fishermen's landing places, sea caves and nesting colonies of kittiwakes, fulmars and Arctic terns. Allow about 45–60 minutes each way, longer for photography. Parts can be wet, rocky or icy, and the path is not fully accessible to wheelchairs or ordinary pushchairs.
A family-operated adventure company offering year-round buggy excursions through the lava landscape near Arnarstapafell. Snowcat tours onto Snæfellsjökull are normally offered from March through July when conditions permit. Reserve ahead and confirm clothing and age requirements.
A hotel restaurant serving dishes made with ingredients sourced from the Snæfellsnes area. The menu may include seafood, meat dishes, burgers, soups and lighter meals.
Casual restaurant serving seafood, pizzas and other straightforward meals. It also operates as a café and bar. Confirm opening hours outside May–September.
A small family-run restaurant convenient for the harbour and coastal trail. Seasonal opening means advance confirmation is advisable.
A modern hotel with private rooms and apartments. The same complex operates restaurants and serves as a useful base for the southern side of Snæfellsjökull National Park. Breakfast may not be included in the basic room rate.
Self-contained cottages and larger accommodation suitable for couples, families and groups. Confirm kitchen facilities, bedding arrangements and breakfast inclusion when booking.
Arnarstapi campsite
A designated campsite for tents and camper vans, close to the village's restaurants and coastal sights. Facilities and reception hours vary by season; confirm winter availability before travelling.
By bus
Public transport on rural Snæfellsnes is limited, and services may require connections or advance reservations.
By tour
Many organized tours of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavík stop at Arnarstapi.
Arnarstapi is compact and is best explored on foot. The harbour, Bárður sculpture, Gatklettur, restaurants and principal accommodation are all within walking distance.
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Reykjavík · International · KEF
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