Renting a car is the most popular option to get from the Golden Circle to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The journey is approximately 105 miles (169km) from Thingvellir National Park in the Golden Circle. Although the drive can be done in about three hours, it is advised to allow for extra time for exploring beautiful scenery and attractions along the way.
It's also possible to plan a private tour for a full day of exploration. After enjoying the wonders of the Golden Circle (Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park), travelers can look forward to the multitude of gems that await on the Peninsula, and some along the route as well. Highlights include Gerduberg basalt columns, Arnarstapi, a small fishing village, and the iconic mountain and waterfall combination of Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss.
This article features some of the top ideas during a 2-day driving tour of the peninsula, like the Búðakirkja and Budhahraun lava fields, Djúpalónssandur black sand beach, and more.
By Car
Duration: 5-7 hours
Driving straight through would have you arriving at the beginnings of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula via either Route 36 back to the Ring Road (Route 1) and then north to Route 54, the main road for the Peninsula. If opting to go this way, travelers can stop at the village of Borgarbyggd for a break at a cafe. Or, to venture a little more off the beaten path, drivers can choose to take Route 52 to Route 50, connecting then to Route 54, which would add on another half hour, and more scenery.
View the famous Black Church of Budir, watch powerful waves crash against Gatklettur, the Hellnar Arch, gaze at the Svödufoss waterfall, and all the gorgeous scenery the Snæfellsjökull National Park has to offer. For more inspiration, this article features the Best Sights on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a 1-2 Day Driving Tour.
By Private or Group Tour
Duration: 7-9 hours
It would be possible to do a full-day tour with a private driver from the Golden Circle to see the highlights of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Group tours generally depart from Reykjavik, so in order to join one of those, you'd have to travel back to the capital city first, before going to the Peninsula.
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