Arnarstapi
A small fishing harbour framed by basalt sea arches and bird-filled cliffs, with a coastal path that continues to Hellnar. It is the most popular stop on the peninsula's south coast.
Arnarstapi is a small fishing village on the south coast, where the shoreline is made of columnar basalt. Its most famous feature is the sea arch Gatklettur, through which the waves surge. In summer the cliffs are crowded with nesting black-legged kittiwakes. At the edge of the village stands a giant statue of Bárður, the legendary half-human, half-giant guardian spirit. A coastal path of about 2.5 km (roughly 40 minutes one way) runs from the harbour to Hellnar, passing lava sea cliffs and other volcanic coastal formations along the way. Near the car park you'll find a café and small restaurants serving fish soup. The cliff edges have no railings, so take care.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Hellnar
- Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
- Snæfellsjökull National Park
- Lóndrangar
- Malarrif Lighthouse & Visitor Centre
- Vatnshellir Cave
- Svöðufoss
- Búðakirkja (Black Church of Búðir)