Kirkjufell Mountain & Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall

Basic Information

Kirkjufell Mountain is one of the top attractions in Iceland.
Located on Snaefellsnes Peninsula – 2,5 hours drive from Reykjavik.
Known from Game of Thrones and other movies & TV series.
It is not allowed to hike the mountain during winter. It can be dangerous.

Kirkjufell Mountain, often called the “most photographed mountain in Iceland,” and its neighboring Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall create one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. Situated on the northern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula near the small fishing village of Grundarfjörður, this striking combination of natural wonders is a magnet for photographers, hikers, and travelers seeking the unique beauty of Iceland’s diverse landscapes.

With its dramatic conical shape and close proximity to the waterfall, Kirkjufell offers captivating views from every angle, whether bathed in the golden light of summer or surrounded by winter’s snow and the Northern Lights. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, two must-see destinations in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Where is Kirkjufell Located?

Kirkjufell Mountain is located near Grundarfjörður, a small coastal town on the north side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik, making it an accessible day trip or an excellent stop on a tour of the peninsula.

Distance from Reykjavik: Approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles)
Driving time: About 2 hours and 20 minutes

The road to Kirkjufell is straightforward via Route 1 and then Route 54, offering scenic views along the way as you travel through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Kirkjufell Mountain: The Most Photographed Mountain in Iceland

Kirkjufell, which means “Church Mountain,” rises 463 meters (1,519 feet) above sea level. Its unique, pyramid-like shape sets it apart from other mountains in Iceland and gives it a mystical appearance. This mountain is particularly striking due to its isolated location, standing alone along the coast with no other peaks directly beside it.

Why is Kirkjufell So Popular?

Kirkjufell’s popularity as a photography destination can be attributed to its perfect symmetry and the visual contrast with the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall. Together, they create a dreamlike composition that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike. Kirkjufell has also gained international fame as a filming location in Game of Thrones, where it appeared as the “Arrowhead Mountain” in the North, adding to its allure.

Photography Tip: The best time to capture Kirkjufell is during sunrise or sunset, when the light creates warm tones that contrast beautifully with the blue skies or surrounding snow.

Hiking Kirkjufell

For experienced hikers, there is a challenging path to the top of Kirkjufell. However, this hike is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves steep inclines and requires scrambling up rocky sections. Only those with a high level of fitness and experience in mountain hiking should attempt the ascent.

Elevation: 463 meters
Hiking difficulty: Very challenging; for experienced hikers only
Time required: About 3-4 hours round trip

Hiking Kirkjufell offers breathtaking views from the top, where you can look out over Grundarfjörður and the surrounding ocean. However, it is crucial to note that this hike can be dangerous due to loose rocks and steep drops, so hiking should only be done in favorable weather conditions and with appropriate gear.

Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall: The Perfect Complement to Kirkjufell

Just a short walk from Kirkjufell Mountain lies Kirkjufellsfoss, a small but beautiful waterfall that flows from the nearby Kirkjufellsá River. Although not particularly large, Kirkjufellsfoss is famous for its scenic beauty, especially with Kirkjufell in the background, making it one of Iceland’s most photographed scenes.

Kirkjufellsfoss consists of three tiers, and the relatively low flow allows for a soft, cascading effect that creates a tranquil ambiance. The path around the waterfall allows visitors to view it from different angles, with the classic perspective being from the front, where Kirkjufell can be seen rising behind it.

Photography Tip: To capture the quintessential shot of Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss, stand on the path that gives you a full view of both the waterfall and mountain. Long-exposure photography works well here, as it creates a silky effect on the water.

Seasons and Best Times to Visit

Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss are beautiful year-round, each season offering a unique perspective on the landscape.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the best season for capturing Kirkjufell in the midnight sun. The long daylight hours allow for extended exploration and ideal lighting conditions for photographers.
The surrounding area is lush and green, creating a striking contrast with the mountain’s peak.

Autumn (September to October)

Autumn brings warm colors to the surrounding foliage, adding depth to photos.
It’s also the beginning of the Northern Lights season, providing a chance to capture Kirkjufell illuminated by the aurora borealis.

Winter (November to March)

Winter transforms Kirkjufell into a snow-covered peak, creating a magical, almost otherworldly scene.
Winter nights are long, offering excellent opportunities to capture Kirkjufell under the Northern Lights, with the snowy landscape adding to the enchantment.

Spring (April to May)

Spring offers melting snow and blossoming flora, creating an appealing mix of winter and summer colors.
It’s generally quieter than summer, making it a good time to visit for a more peaceful experience.

Things to Do Near Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss

Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss are just two of the many attractions on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Here are a few other nearby sights worth exploring:

1. Grundarfjörður

The town of Grundarfjörður is the closest settlement to Kirkjufell, offering restaurants, cafes, and accommodations. It’s a charming fishing village and a convenient base for exploring the area.

2. Snæfellsjökull National Park

Located west of Kirkjufell, Snæfellsjökull National Park is home to the Snæfellsjökull glacier-volcano, made famous by Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Center of the Earth. The park offers hiking trails, lava fields, and stunning coastal views.

3. Búðir Church

The Black Church of Búðir is an iconic black-painted church located on the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Its stark, minimalist design against the rugged landscape makes it a popular photography spot.

4. Djúpalónssandur Beach

Djúpalónssandur black sand beach is known for its unique rock formations and scattered remains of a shipwreck. It’s a beautiful and eerie place to explore the coastline.

5. Arnarstapi and Hellnar

Arnarstapi is a neighboring coastal villages known for their dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and rock arches. There are scenic walking trails connecting the two that offer incredible views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.

Practical Information

Getting There: Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss are easily accessible from the Ring Road (Route 1) and Route 54, which runs through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. From Reykjavik, it’s approximately a 2-hour drive.
Parking: There is a small parking area near Kirkjufellsfoss. Due to the popularity of the site, parking can fill up quickly, especially in summer, so it’s best to arrive early or visit during off-peak hours.
Safety: While the area around Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss is generally safe for visitors, exercise caution if hiking up Kirkjufell. The trail is steep and can be dangerous, especially in poor weather. Stick to the designated paths around Kirkjufellsfoss to avoid damaging the natural environment.
Respect Nature: Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss attract many visitors, so it’s important to respect nature by following marked paths, not littering, and being mindful of the fragile Icelandic environment.

Why Visit Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss?

Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall together create a landscape that is uniquely Icelandic—wild, dramatic, and beautifully picturesque. The stunning scenery, easy access, and iconic views make it a must-visit destination on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Whether you’re a photographer capturing the perfect shot, a hiker exploring the area’s rugged beauty, or a traveler looking to experience Iceland’s natural wonders, Kirkjufell and Kirkjufellsfoss offer an unforgettable experience. This enchanting area embodies the magic of Iceland and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.