Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi, often simply referred to as Stapi, is a small and historic village on the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The village lies beneath Stapafell, between Hellnar and Breiðuvík, and is surrounded by dramatic landscapes where mountains, cliffs, and the open ocean meet.

For centuries, Arnarstapi played an important role as an administrative and trading center. From 1565 onwards, royal commissioners were based here, overseeing lands that had previously belonged to Helgafell Monastery, a system known as the Stapa District. These officials were often also sheriffs or legal authorities, and during the 19th century, the governors of the Western District resided at Arnarstapi. Among notable historical figures associated with the village are the poet Guðmundur Bergþórsson and the governor Bjarni Thorsteinsson, whose son, the national poet Steingrímur Thorsteinsson, grew up here.

One of the most significant historic buildings in Arnarstapi is the former governor’s residence, commonly known as Stapahúsið. Built between 1774 and 1787, it is considered one of the oldest houses in Iceland. Although it was dismantled and relocated in the 19th century, the building was reconstructed at Arnarstapi in 1985–1986 and later protected, reflecting the village’s rich cultural heritage.

The natural harbor at Arnarstapi was long regarded as one of the best landing sites along the coast beneath the glacier. During the period of Danish trade monopoly, Arnarstapi functioned as a trading post, and fishing activity has been central to the local economy since early times. Today, a small boat harbor—modernized in 2002—serves as the only harbor on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, supporting local fishing and summer activity.

The natural surroundings of Arnarstapi are among its greatest attractions. The coastline between Arnarstapi and Hellnar was designated a protected area in 1979 and is renowned for its unique rock formations and dramatic scenery. Notable features include Gatklettur, a striking stone arch carved by the sea, as well as deep coastal fissures where waves crash and send sprays high into the air during rough seas.

A popular walking path follows the coastline between Arnarstapi and Hellnar, partly along an old riding trail that once connected the two settlements. The walk offers breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and abundant birdlife that inhabit the area.

At Arnarstapi stands the well-known sculpture Bárður Snæfellsás, a stone figure created by the artist Ragnar Kjartansson. Bárður is a legendary guardian spirit associated with the Snæfellsnes region, and many believe he watches over the land beneath the glacier, blending folklore with the natural environment.

Visitors wishing to stay longer will find a campsite at Arnarstapi, and the village serves as a convenient base for exploring other nearby destinations such as Ólafsvík, Hellnar Church, and Sönghellir. Arnarstapi is therefore both a historic settlement and a vibrant destination where culture, nature, and tourism come together.

Source: Wikipedia
Photo: Anton Stefánsson