Kirkjufell: Iceland's Most Photographed Mountain (And for Good Reason)

A Shape You Won't Forget

Kirkjufell, meaning "Church Mountain," earns its name from its distinct steeple-like shape. Standing 463 meters tall, it seems almost too perfect, too symmetrical, to be real. It's so striking that it has starred in TV shows like Game of Thrones, where it was fittingly dubbed "the mountain shaped like an arrowhead."

But no photo—not even the most carefully edited—captures what it's like to stand before Kirkjufell in person. Especially at sunset, when the sky flares with color and the mountain casts a perfect reflection in the still waters below, it feels less like looking at the scenery and more like stepping into a painting.

Kirkjufellsfoss – The Perfect Pair

Just across the road from the mountain, Kirkjufellsfoss, a small but beautiful waterfall, is almost as famous as Kirkjufell itself. Many of the most beloved images of the mountain show it framed by the cascading waters of this falls — a natural composition that seems almost too good to be true.

Take your time here. Wander the short paths around the waterfall. Let the sound of the rushing water, the sweeping views of Breiðafjörður, and the presence of Kirkjufell itself soak into your memory.

Things to Know Before You Go

1. The best time for photos is sunrise and sunset when the low light paints Kirkjufell in soft gold and pink. Winter adds the chance of Northern Lights dancing above the peak.
2. Hiking Kirkjufell: It's important to know that hiking to the summit is only recommended with a trained guide. The path is steep, exposed, and dangerous without proper equipment and experience. For most visitors, enjoying Kirkjufell from below — with both feet safely on the ground — is the best approach.
3. Access: Kirkjufell is just a few minutes' drive from Grundarfjörður, a charming fishing town with cafés, guesthouses, and stunning views of the bay.

More Than a Pretty Picture

At Key to Iceland, we believe the best travel moments happen when you slow down and let a place reveal itself to you. Kirkjufell is a perfect example. Yes, it's one of the most beautiful sights you'll see. But it's also a place that reminds you why landscapes like these matter, why they stir something deeper within you.