Reykjavik: Private Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Explore the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a private tour from Reykjavik, visiting black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, Kirkjufell Mountain, and more. End your adventure with a relaxing soak at Hvammsvik Hot Springs.

Most visitors to Iceland never make it to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Those who do tend to say it was the highlight of their trip. This private full-day tour from Reykjavík takes you around one of the most varied and visually spectacular stretches of coastline in the country – and ends it with something that has been called the best thing to do in the world: an evening soak at Hvammsvik Hot Springs.

The day begins at Ytri Tunga Beach, where wild harbour seals haul out onto the rocks year-round in one of Iceland's most reliable and genuinely moving wildlife encounters. The southern shore of the peninsula then leads to Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge – a narrow crack in the cliff face that opens into a hidden, mossy canyon with a stream running through it – and the stunning sea arch of Gatklettur at Arnarstapi, where the ocean has carved a perfect hole through solid rock, framing the open Atlantic beyond.

Along the western tip, Djúpalónssandur delivers one of Iceland's most atmospheric beach experiences: black pebbles, towering cliffs, ancient fishermen's lifting stones, and the rusted wreckage of a trawler still lying where it came ashore. The volcanic landscape of Hólahólar – the dramatic crags of the Lóndrangar area rising from the lava fields – and the perfectly formed Saxhóll Crater, climbed via a spiral staircase to a panoramic rim, round out the peninsula's raw volcanic character before the tour heads north.

The final stop on the peninsula is Kirkjufell – Iceland's most photographed mountain, its distinctive arrowhead silhouette rising from the northern shore with a waterfall in the foreground and a fjord at its back. It is the kind of view that makes people quietly put their cameras down and just look.

The return to Reykjavík passes through Hvalfjörður fjord and into Hvammsvik Hot Springs: eight natural geothermal pools set directly at the edge of the Atlantic, in a fjord landscape of extraordinary stillness. Named the Best Thing to Do in the World by Time Out in 2023, Hvammsvik is not a tourist spa – it is a place where the water, the mountains, and the silence do all the work. A bistro is available on-site. There is no better way to end a day on the west coast of Iceland.

Please note: the entrance fee for Hvammsvik Hot Springs is not included in the initial price but can be added at the checkout page.

Private transportation (sedan for 1-3 / minivan for 4-8, exclusively for your group)
Dedicated, professional English-speaking guide for the full day
Door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off in central Reykjavík
Flexible itinerary adapted to your group's pace and interests
WiFi and USB charging ports available on board
Bottled water provided on board on demand
Parking fees and local taxes

Clothing & footwear

Warm, waterproof, and windproof outer layer – the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is exposed to open Atlantic weather and conditions can change rapidly at any time of year.
Thermal base layer and mid-layer fleece for colder months (October-April).
Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or boots – terrain at several stops including Rauðfeldsgjá and Djúpalónssandur involves uneven rock and pebble surfaces.
Warm hat, gloves, and a scarf – especially important outside summer months.
Sunglasses – useful year-round, essential in summer and on bright winter days.

For Hvammsvik Hot Springs

Swimsuit or swimming trunks – mandatory for entry.
Flip flops or sandals for the changing area and pool surrounds.

Pickup from Reykjavik
Your private driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel or accommodation in Reykjavik. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle as you head toward the breathtaking Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes.
Ytri Tunga Beach
Your first stop is the famous golden-sand beach of Ytri Tunga, known for its resident seal colony. Unlike Iceland’s typical black beaches, this shoreline offers a unique landscape. Enjoy watching seals resting on the rocks and take beautiful coastal photos.
Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
Visit the hidden gorge of Rauðfeldsgjá, a dramatic canyon tucked into the mountainside. Walk toward the narrow entrance and explore this mystical natural formation. This stop offers a short adventure and stunning photo opportunities.
Gatklettur Rock (Arnarstapi)
Explore the charming coastal village of Arnarstapi and admire Gatklettur, a striking natural stone arch formed by ocean erosion. Walk along the cliffs and enjoy spectacular views of the rugged coastline and crashing waves.
Djúpalónssandur Black Sand Beach
Discover this dramatic black pebble beach surrounded by lava formations. See the remains of a historic shipwreck and try lifting the traditional “lifting stones” once used to test fishermen’s strength. The scenery here is raw and powerful.
Hólahólar
A striking row of volcanic craters stretching across the Snæfellsnes landscape, Hólahólar is a vivid reminder of the volcanic forces that shaped this peninsula.
Saxhóll Crater
Climb the steps to the top of Saxhóll, a volcanic crater offering panoramic views of lava fields, glaciers, and coastline. This short hike rewards you with stunning 360-degree scenery.
Kirkjufell Mountain
Visit the iconic Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains. Admire its distinctive shape and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. This is a must-stop location for incredible photos.
Hvammsvik Hot Springs
After a full day of exploration, unwind at Hvammsvik Hot Springs. Relax in natural geothermal pools set along the shoreline, surrounded by peaceful Icelandic nature. This is the perfect way to recharge and enjoy a unique Icelandic bathing experience. Please note that tickets are not included in initial price but can be added at check out page.
Arrival Back in Reykjavik
After your relaxing soak, enjoy a comfortable drive back to Reykjavik. You will be dropped off at your hotel, concluding an unforgettable day combining adventure and relaxation.

A 100% charge applies if canceled within 1 days of the start time.
A 5% charge applies if canceled within 999 days of the start time.

Please note

Confirmation & pickup

You will receive a booking confirmation immediately after purchase.
Exact pickup time will be confirmed by the operator at least 24 hours before departure.
Hotel pickup is included.
Groups of 1-3 travel in a private sedan; groups of 4-8 travel in a private minivan.

Hvammsvik Hot Springs – entrance fee

The entrance fee for Hvammsvik Hot Springs is not included in the tour price.
Advance booking of Hvammsvik tickets is strongly recommended, especially in peak season (please contact our team immediately).
The minimum age for entry to Hvammsvik Hot Springs is 12 years.
A bistro serving food and drinks is available on-site at Hvammsvik.

Health & accessibility

This tour involves easy walking on uneven natural terrain. It is not recommended for guests with serious mobility limitations.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
The climb to the rim of Saxhóll Crater is optional and involves ascending a metal staircase on a steep slope.

Children & age requirements

Children are welcome on the tour. Please note that the minimum age for entry to Hvammsvik Hot Springs is 12 years.
Parents or guardians are responsible for the safety of children throughout the tour.

Wildlife

Wild harbour seals are present at Ytri Tunga year-round but sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Please keep a respectful distance from wildlife at all times and follow your guide's instructions.

Food & drinks

Food and drinks are not included in the tour price. Cafés and restaurants are available at Arnarstapi and in Grundarfjörður. A bistro is available at Hvammsvik Hot Springs.