The mountain of Kirkjufell in winter is even more of a must-see than in summer, with its two partly frozen waterfalls. The scenery is magical!
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Why visit Kirkjufell in winter?
Is Kirkjufell worth a visit in winter? Our opinion:
Kirkjufell is well worth a visit in winter. The mountain’s unique shape becomes even more striking when covered in snow, and the partially frozen Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls create a fairytale scene. The river is also partially frozen and snow-covered, with its pastel or intense blues.
It’s one of the must-see attractions on the Snaefellsnes peninsula and one of the most beautiful waterfalls to see in winter.
Our favorite moments
The setting is truly magical, and we particularly liked it:
- The unique shape of the mountain with the black and white rings created by the snow
- Ice formations on waterfalls
- Shades of blue with water
- View of the fjords
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How to get to Kirkjufellsfoss in winter: access and map
Where is Kirkjufell?
- On the north coast of the Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Parking along Route 54, clearly signposted and unobstructed.
- From Grundarfjordur = 5min drive
- From Borgarnes = 1h20 drive
- From Reykjavik = 2h30 drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
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On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
How to get there? Winter access road
The Sanefellsnes peninsula is normally accessible in winter, and the main roads are clear.
Normally, the roads are cleared quickly enough for access. But during snowstorms, roads may be closed at the last minute – always check the status of roads on Umferdin.
The access road to the Kirkjufell parking lot is very short and usually cleared quickly, as this is one of the main attractions.
If you don’t want to drive, organized tours of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik always stop at Kirkjufell – see options.
Parking
A good-sized, flat parking lot is available.
We advise you always to park in the direction of departure, and to maneuver on arrival, as you don’t know how the people after you will park.
In the photo above, you can see the parking lot from the access road, and in the photo below, on the way back from the path.
Parking is now charged at 1000 ISK for the day (even if the visit is short). For the moment, the payment system does not support the Parka application.
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- Where to sleep on the Snaefellsnes peninsula
Useful tips: duration, schedules, difficulties…
Best time to visit, opening hours and prices
Apart from parking, access to the waterfalls is free and available at all times of the day and night.
Kirkjufell and its waterfalls are known as one of the photographers’ favorite spots. Here you can admire sunrises and sunsets. It’s also an ideal spot for watching the northern lights, with a view to the north.
Find out more in our article on the best hotels on the peninsula.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow 30min (or more if you’re a photography fan).
The trails are steep, but there are no major difficulties. It’s a 5-minute walk from the parking lot to the waterfalls.
Be careful, with snow and ice on the ground, it can be slippery. We recommend you always carry cleats with you to add to your shoes. See our article on winter packing (coming soon)
Installations
There are no facilities. The town of Grundarfjordur is a 5-minute drive away.
UNFORGETTABLE ACTIVITIES IN winter
- Visit an ice cave
- Glacier hiking
- Whale watching (from Reykjavik, Husavik or Akureyri)
Before the parking lot, view of Kirkjufell
Between Grundarfjorfur and the parking lot, don’t miss the view of the mountain. Kirkjufell mountain is a 463-metre peak, and from this angle its shape is even more unique.
As you can see from the photo, in winter its striking pyramid shape is accentuated by a blanket of snow, its layers of stratified rock contrasting with the white. It’s an enchanting winter landscape.
From the point: view of the fjords
After a 5-minute walk, you reach a bridge over the upper waterfall. You’ll discover a magnificent snow-covered panorama with the fjords in the background.
This bridge spans the Kirkjufellsá River, which continues on towards the sea. This river begins on the Helgrindur volcano. The river is named after the mountain. And the name Kirkjufell means “church mountain”.
Upper waterfall
Kirkjufellsfoss is in fact a combination of several waterfalls flowing into the same river, descending a total of 16 metres (52 feet).
In winter, the upper part is the most impressive.
Large columns of ice form along the wall. These natural sculptures are fascinating.
You can get close, but be careful. With the snow, it’s hard to tell the difference between the ground and the river.
We saw someone fall into the river because he was so focused on his camera!
Lower cascade
Ice sculptures also form on the lower cascade, but the water continues to flow between them.
It is less impressive than the upper part. However, when we were there, the blue colors of the river were bewitching. The color depends on the amount of ice that has formed.
View from the road
You can also go down the path on the other side of the bridge.
You can admire the upper cascade from a different perspective. You lose your view of Kirkjufell, but you have the Helgrindur ridge in the background.
Northern lights in Kirkjufell in winter
Sorry, we haven’t been able to take any photos of the aurora over Kirkjufell yet.
But the location is indeed excellent for viewing and photographing the Northern Lights.
The distinctive shape of the mountain, combined with the waterfalls in the foreground, creates a magnificent composition.
What’s more, the view faces north, which is better, and you’re not too close to the city to get a sufficiently dark sky, which is essential for optimal aurora viewing.
We remind you that clear skies and good solar activity are also essential for successful observing.
Last but not least, Kirkjufell is very popular, and you won’t be alone if you want to see the aurora. Be careful not to interfere with other photographers’ long exposures.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to visit Kirkjufell in winter?
Visiting Kirkjufell in winter is safe if you take the necessary precautions.
Wear appropriate clothing.
If you’re not comfortable walking in snow and ice, add crampons to your shoes.
And don’t get too close to the waterfalls, as you’ll never know where the river begins!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO iceland IN WINTER
- Best of
Iceland’s winter landscapes
Best things to do in Iceland in winter
The most beautiful waterfalls
Ice caves
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Getting around (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Iceland
Winter driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland in winter
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days (to come)
- The must-dos
Reykjavik in winter
Golden Circle in winter
South coast in winter
Snaefellsnes in winter
Silver Circle in winter (coming soon)
Lake Myvatn in winter
Eastern Fjords in winter
Seljalandsfoss in winter
Jokulsarlon in winter
