3 Days In Iceland: Golden Circle, South Coast & Snaefellsness

Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi

This picturesque fishing village features dramatic coastlines, unique rock formations, and is a haven for bird watchers, steeped in rich history and folklore.
Arnarstapi is a small fishing village at the foot of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. The coastline is dramatic, with rock formations like Gataklettur and the Stone Bridge. Arnastapi is also a paradise for bird watchers as the surrounding cliffs are popular among various bird species.

The fishing village was founded in 1565 as a trading post of the Danish Crown during the trading monopoly. Danish agents had custodial power over Arnarstapi in the 17th and 18th centuries and commercial rights over nearby lands formerly owned by Helgafell Monastery.

Bárðar Saga Snæfellsáss inspired the Arnarstapi and the nearby Hellnar place names. The Icelandic Saga relates the story of Bárður, a half-human, and half-ogre.

One of the oldest houses in Arnarstapi, Amtmannshús (The Danish Prefect’s Residence) is also one of the oldest houses in Iceland. It was built in 1774-1787.