Kirkjufell

West

Mount Kirkjufell or The Church Mountain is a 463 meter high mountain located near the town Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland. This mountain is probably the most photographed mountain in Iceland, it changes colour every season and is especially popular in the winter with the northern lights dancing around in the sky.

There are some beautiful walking trails around the mountain. Next to the mountain is a waterfall called Kirkjufellsfoss. The waterfall, with the mountain in the background, makes the perfect photograph on a nice day. It is also possible to climb up the mountain. The climb takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to the top and about same time to get down. The mountain is rather steep and can be challenging to climb but the view from the top is amazing. On the way down take extra care as you don’t want to fall. Those who suffer from vertigo or are not in good shape should consider skipping this one.

Directions

Mount Kirkjufell is located about 2 hours and 30 minutes (176 km) drive from Reykjavík. Take Ring Road nr. 1 towards the town Borgarnes and then take road nr. 54 towards the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Drive for about 45 minutes and then turn right on road nr. 56 and then turn left and take road nr. 54 again towards the town Grundarfjörður. The parking lot for the mountain and the waterfall is just a 10 minute drive from Grundarfjörður.