Kirkjufell Mountain and Waterfall, Iceland
Even before you arrive at Kirkjufell you will know what you are going to see. The classical hat-shaped mountain with a nearby waterfall is Kirkjufell. What you aren’t ready for is the chaos of parking and the hordes of people jostling to get their moment at this iconic location. This is one of Iceland’s honeypot spots and despite visiting on a very busy and grey overcast day the potential of this location is easily seen.
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Kirkjufell Mountain
The name Kirkjufell means Church Mountain and this should be no surprise. From the south, it looks like a church steeple whilst from the west it looks like the nave. Once surrounded by glaciers this 463 metre high lump of rock lump of rock rises from the calm bay near the small village of Grundarfjörður. There is a family-friendly walk around the base of the mountain and along the nearby beach which takes about three hours.
It is made up of a base of lava with subsequent layers of sandstone and lava, all eroded and shaped by glaciers and weather of millennia in a process known as ‘nunatak’. This glacial island was left exposed above the surrounding glaciers. Layers formed which can still be seen today as volcanic eruptions lay down each layer on the mountain.
Kirkjufellsfoss
Opposite the mountain is a small tiered waterfall called Kirkjufellsfoss. Compared to other waterfalls in Iceland this is small but perfectly formed and the mountain behind is stunning.
From the parking area, a path leads away from the mountain and the main road. There are viewpoints across the waterfall and the bridge takes you over the top of the falls to the other side.
Along the side of the falls are roped areas. Remember that the habitat is Iceland is vulnerable to over tourism so staying on the paths at this busy spot is essential. However tempting the river bed looks, stay on the path.
Places to Stay Near Kirkjufell
The nearest town to Kirkjufell is Grundarfjörður. This has a number of small hotels and guesthouses as well as a small campsite next to the swimming pool.
A little further away and slightly cheaper is Òlafsvík. This again has a range of hotels and Guesthouse options as well as a small campsite just to the east of the town itself.
Organised Tours in Iceland that Include Kirkjufell
There are lots of tours that visit Kirkjufell if you don’t want to travel on your own. Here are a few suggestions!
Kayak around the mountain in the midnight sun
All night is dusk on the long summer days and is the perfect time to see Kirkjufell from a different perspective. View the tour here and book
Game of Thrones Locations
If you are a fan of GOT then this tour, including Kirkjufell is the ultimate way to experience Iceland. This tour to the hidden places on Snæfellsnes Peninsula includes Kirkjufell
Is Kirkjufell worth visiting?
Lots of people have this mountain view on their list for Iceland and it was on mine. When we visited it was very busy and was not the best experience. If you visit in the winter or late in the day then it is a magical location, especially for northern lights photography. However, the middle of the day in the middle of summer is best avoided.
Can I climb Kirkjufell Mountain?
However appealing and tempting the mounting looks, it cannot be climbed. the landowner has banned all climbs on the mountain even with a guide after a number of fatalities.
Was Kirkjufell a location in Game of Thrones?
This mountain is Arrowhead Mountain in Seasons 6 and 7 of Game of Thrones and a brief moment at Kirkjufellsfoss is seen in episode 5 of season 6 when the children of the forest created the first White Walker (if you are into the series!)
Can I see the Northern Lights at Kirkjufell?
This mountain is one of the iconic northern lights locations in Iceland. Keep an eye on the weather forecast for a clear sky and the aurora alerts for activity. When these two things come together then this is a good location. One of the best spots for photography is from the smaller car park closer to the beach where you can get beautiful reflections in the shallow water.
Getting to Kirkjufell Mountain and Waterfall
Kirkjufell is located a short distance west of the small town of Grundarfjörður on Road 54. It is just under 3 hours (183km) drive from Reykjavík on good roads. The mountain can be seen as you approach and the parking areas are clearly marked.
From the main parking area follow the gravel path along the river to the bridge and then drop back down the other side. It is not possible currently to complete a circular walk.
There is a second parking area closer to Grundarfjörður which is on the shore and provides low-level access to the water.
- Off Road 54 west of Grundarfjörður on Snæfellsness Peninsula
- View parking area on Google Maps
- Mountain viewpoint close to the beach
