The most recognizable images in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and one of the most iconic places in the entire country– Kirkjufell is a sight to behold.
Kirkja translates to church in Icelandic, said to resemble a place of worship from a certain angle – but no matter what you make of it there is no doubt that it is a divine picture.
Located on a small peninsula, looking as though it has sprung from the sea, this place holds the title of the most photographed mountain in Iceland. There are many locations from which to photograph the church mountain, but none more iconic than when framed with Kirkjufellsfoss.
Just across the road from the mountain you’ll find a busy parking lot that has a short and easy path to the famed vista. Stand beside a three pronged waterfall along the Kirkjufellsá River, which originates in a volcano.
As the sun started to set dazzling colors took to the landscape, it is a beautiful time to visit. Many choose to come in the middle of the night in hopes of seeing the northern lights dancing behind the mountain.
If you are looking for a more intimate viewing, there are many additional quiet streets to look down, and gravel pull offs near to the main lot. One was equipped with informational panels to learn about the geology and wildlife of the area.
Another had the added bonus of a group of Icelandic horses grazing nearby.
It is possible to climb Kirkjufell, though it is said to be more of a rock climbers trip than a normal hike, due to the steep nature of the trail. The roundtrip distance is only 1.2 with a 1,500’ elevation gain, including the use of frayed ropes. We stayed at a guesthouse nearby in the tiny fishing village of Grundarfjörður where our host, a local farmer Ragnar, told us of the most recent death that occurred on the mountain just a few months prior. An additional trail meanders around the base of the mountain if you are really hoping to hike in the immediate area. Keep your eyes peeled for orca whales, which have been reported in the fjord. We witnessed the prettiest sunset on our entire trip around the country in this town, and the charm of the whole area stays with me.
Fun Fact: Kirkjufell was used as the ‘mountain like an arrowhead’ in the Hounds vision in the show Game of Thrones.