Kirkjufellsfoss
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What people say
Alex Ayling
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"Kirkjufellsfoss is a stunning waterfall located near the town of Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. It is often considered one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the country, thanks to its beautiful surroundings and its close proximity to the iconic mountain Kirkjufell.
Kirkjufellsfoss derives its name from the nearby mountain Kirkjufell, which translates to "Church Mountain" in English. The waterfall flows from the Kirkjufellsá river and cascades gracefully into a small pool at its base. The combination of the cascading water and the mountain as a backdrop creates a picturesque and photogenic scene that has made Kirkjufellsfoss a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
One of the unique features of Kirkjufellsfoss is its multiple streams of water flowing in parallel, creating a sense of movement and dynamism in the waterfall. This, combined with the surrounding green landscapes, adds to the enchanting atmosphere.
The location of Kirkjufellsfoss near the iconic Kirkjufell mountain further enhances its allure. Kirkjufell is a cone-shaped mountain that rises steeply from the surrounding landscape, forming a distinctive and recognizable silhouette. The combination of Kirkjufellsfoss and Kirkjufell in the same frame creates a stunning and iconic composition.
Visiting Kirkjufellsfoss offers more than just a visual delight. The area provides opportunities for scenic hikes, allowing visitors to explore the waterfall and its surroundings from different perspectives. There are marked trails and viewpoints, providing ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs.
Kirkjufellsfoss and Kirkjufell are easily accessible, located just off Route 54 on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The proximity to the town of Grundarfjörður makes it a popular stop for those exploring the region.
Whether you are captivated by its natural beauty, seeking a memorable photo opportunity, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, Kirkjufellsfoss and the nearby Kirkjufell mountain offer a truly magical experience in the heart of Iceland's stunning landscapes."
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Lisa Dahl
"📸 If you've only seen one picture of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula or even Iceland, there's a good chance that it's of Kirkjufell.
⛪️ Kirkjufell translates to Church Mountain because of its dramatic soaring peak, which resembles a church steeple.
🇮🇸 It is 463 meters (1519 feet) tall and is located on the edge of Grundarfjörður, a charming town on the peninsula's northern side.
❤️ If it looks familiar, you might have seen it as Arrowhead Mountain in the Game of Thrones.
💚 Kirkjufell is not a volcano but contains volcanic rock. It’s a nunatak or a mountain that jutted above the glaciers during the Ice Age.
🚗 From the parking lot, walk over the small bridge and down the path to the waterfall.
📸 Kirkjufellsfossar is not the most spectacular waterfall in the area, but with Kirkjufell mountain in the background, the pair make for a fantastic picture.
📸 You can walk 10 minutes further to a small inlet, where, on days when the water is still, you can take a cool photo of the mountain in reflection.
🚘 While there’s a decent-sized parking lot, it can get crowded. If all the spots are full, wait a few minutes, as most people spend between 15 to 30 minutes here, so the parking spots turn over pretty quickly.
🔗 Below is a link to a kayaking tour around Kirkjufell. I haven't done it yet, but it's definitely on my bucket list! Summer only!
💰 COST: Free
🚗 PARKING: Paid lot that accepts credit cards.
⏰ HOURS: Always open."
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Kristen Mackiewicz
" Kirkjufell means “pyramid mountain” which is obviously fitting considering its perfectly pyramid-y shaped. On the south side of the mountain is Kirkjufellsfoss – two perfectly placed and amazingly picturesque waterfalls. Kirkjufell is the most photographed mountain in all of Iceland, and it’s easy to see why! At certain times of the year, whales can be spotted from the bridge over Kolgrafarfjörður (just a few km east of Grundarfjörður), when they follow the herring into the fjord or lagoon. The season for the whales in fjord is usually from November to April."
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