Kirkjufellsfoss

Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on this guided day trip from Reykjavik. See what Iceland has to offer on one trip including the Berserkjahraun lava fields, Snaefellsjokull volcano, and Kirkjufell mountain. Learn about local legends and see a seal colony. Begin your trip in the local town of Borgarnes. Grab some snacks before heading to the peninsula and try to catch a peak of the ice-capped Snaefellsjokull stratovolcano. Arrive at the Berserkjahraun lava field, and learn the origin of its name. Next, head to Kirkjufell, famously known for its role on the "Game of Thrones" television show, and for being the most-photographed mountain in the entire country. Visit the neighboring waterfall, and be swept away by the magic. Then climb the staircase to the top of Saxholl (visited only from March – November), a 100-meter-high volcanic crater. Reach the top and be rewarded by the stunning views of this 3000-year-old feat of nature. Learn local legends and the history of strong Icelandic ancestry. Venture into the uninhabited settlement of Djupalonssandur, and test your strength as local men used to on the beach. Head to the fishing village of Arnarstapi and witness the beautifully eroded cliffs and the sculpture of Barour Snaefellsas. Finally, discover a more in-depth understanding of Icelandic history at Budakirkja, or the "Black Church." View historical artifacts from the 19th century. Continue to the enchanting golden-colored beach of Ytri-Tunga (only from March - November). Witness a huge seal colony, laying on the rocks and enjoying the sun.

Embark on an unforgettable day tour from Grundarfjörður to Snæfellsnes, exploring the stunning landscapes and captivating landmarks that define this magical peninsula. Your journey begins at Grundarfjörður port, where you'll be greeted by the breathtaking silhouette of Kirkjufell, one of Iceland's most iconic mountains. First on the itinerary is Kirkjufellsfoss, a majestic waterfall at the base of Kirkjufell. Marvel at the synergy of the mountain and the falls, capturing postcard-perfect moments against the backdrop of nature's grandeur. Continue your adventure to Djúpalónssandur, a black-sand beach adorned with fascinating remnants of a shipwreck. Feel the ancient spirits of the sea as you explore the mystical stones scattered along the shore, each with its own unique historical significance. As you travel along the coastline, Lóndrangar will emerge on the horizon – colossal basalt rock pinnacles rising dramatically from the sea. Gaze in awe at these natural sculptures and appreciate the raw power of geological forces that shaped the rugged coastline. Arnarstapi, a quaint fishing village, beckons with its charm and scenic coastal beauty. Stroll along the coastal cliffs, breathe in the crisp sea air, and witness the resident birdlife nesting on the cliffs. Your journey concludes at Búðir, a picturesque location featuring the iconic black church set against a backdrop of lava fields and the Snæfellsjökull glacier. Take in the spiritual ambiance and capture the timeless allure of this historic site. As you return to Grundarfjörður port, reflect on a day filled with natural wonders, cultural treasures, and the undeniable magic that is Snæfellsnes. This day tour promises a symphony of sights and experiences, creating lasting memories of Iceland's awe-inspiring beauty.

On the way to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, we will pass a wonderful little town called Borgarnes. The journey to this place is absolutely phenomenal – we will drive through a fjord and many scenic mountains. Borgarnes was one of the first places Norwegian Vikings settled when they arrived in Iceland. Our first stop in Snæfellsnes will be a heavenly place for animal lovers – a place where the wild seals live. Ytri-Tunga is a sandy beach that has a little secret hidden away down by the sea, behind the farmhouses… a seal colony! Seals love to spend their time on the rocks of this beautiful beach. They are friendly and curious and will climb up on the rocks for you to spot them from a distance. In the old days seals used to be killed for food or for fashion, however nowadays Icelanders see seals as a beautiful addition to the culture and encourage visitors to come and visit them as well. Our next stop will be an old village located in the middle of huge lava fields – Búðir. In the old times the village used to be called Hraunhofn, which meant ‘“The Harbor of Lava” in Icelandic. Nowadays, in the once thriving town, the only standing building is a tiny wooden black church called Búðakirkja – better known as Black Church of Búdir. Also a modern Hotel Búðir has been recently built. Our next stop is a small fishing village at the bottom of a mountain, with one of the most beautiful harbors in the country. This tiny fishing village has picturesque coastal cliffs which derived from glowing magma, hit by the wild waves of the Atlantic. Thousands of years later, erosion has formed beautiful stone arches and a remarkable marine geyser. We will visit the coastline as we share some extremely fascinating stories about Bárður, the half-man half-troll, and his stories in the area. Afterwards we will stop at a beautiful Gatklettur, also known as “Hellnar Arch”. Gatklettur is a beautiful naturally formed stone arch. Gatklettur is a spectacular place for photographers, and videographers. Djúpalónssandur is a striking black sand beach on Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Its volcanic pebble shoreline, shipwreck remains, and ancient lifting stones create a captivating and mysterious atmosphere. Nearby Dritvík Cove offers breathtaking views and is a haven for birdwatchers. Djúpalónssandur is a place where Iceland's coastal beauty and rich history come together. The Lóndrangar are a pair of gigantic (75-meter high) basalt pinnacles, which are remains from a volcanic crater from ten of thousands of years ago. They can be seen emerging over the entire southern coastline. In the area we might find a huge variety of seabirds, northern fulmars and Iceland’s beloved puffins. We will end our day with Kirkjufell - the most famous mountain in Iceland, which was featured multiple times on Game of Thrones. At the bottom of the mountain, you will find a lake which reflects a perfect mirror image of Kirkjufell.

Go on a 7-day captivating exploration of Iceland's natural wonders. Journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where geological diversity and mythical landscapes await, from Djúpalónssandur Beach to Kirkjufell mountain. Delve into Borgarfjörður's saga history and marvel at Deildartunguhver and Hraunfossar waterfalls. Discover the Golden Circle's treasures, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Along the South Shore, witness the beauty of Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara beach. Conclude your adventure with relaxation at the Blue Lagoon before bidding farewell to Iceland's enchanting landscapes. Day 1: Arrival Upon landing in Iceland, collect your rental car. Spend your first night in Reykjavík, the vibrant capital. Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive northwest to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature." Start with Gerðuberg Basalt Columns, then visit Ytri Tunga Beach, known for its seals. Explore Arnarstapi and Hellnar, connected by a scenic trail. Visit the iconic Gatklettur Arch Rock near Arnarstapi. In Snæfellsjökull National Park, hike near the glacier-capped volcano and explore Vatnshellir lava tube. Visit Djúpalónssandur beach and conclude at Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Overnight in Stykkishólmur. Day 3: Borgarfjörður Drive south to Borgarfjörður, starting with Reykholt, home of medieval historian Snorri Sturluson. Visit Deildartunguhver hot spring and the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Conclude in Borgarnes, with its small-town charm and rich saga history at the Settlement Centre. Day 4: Golden Circle Explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historical and geological significance. Visit the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts every few minutes. Continue to Gullfoss waterfall. End the day in Selfoss, offering shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Day 5: South Shore Begin with Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the falls. Next, visit Skógafoss waterfall, known for its misty spray. Dyrhólaey offers panoramic ocean views and the iconic arched rock. Reynisfjara beach impresses with black sands and basalt columns. Drive to Vík í Mýrdal, a charming village with a picturesque church and dramatic cliffs. Return to Selfoss for the night. Day 6: The Reykjanes Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon Drive around the beautiful Reykjanes Peninsula with the chance to relax at the world-famous Blue Lagoon (bathing fee optional extra). End your adventure with a scenic drive through captivating lava fields, arriving in Reykjavík inspired by the natural beauty of Iceland. Day 7: Departure Head to Keflavík International Airport, returning your rental car, and bid farewell to Iceland's enchanting landscapes. Accommodation Categories: Standard: Guesthouses and 3-star equivalent hotels. Comfort: 4-star hotels in Reykjavík, best hotels available in countryside. All rooms are standard.

This peninsula showcases a diverse array of Icelandic landscapes, earning it the moniker "Iceland in miniature." Despite its remote location, away from the bustling Ring Road, Snæfellsnes remains sparsely inhabited, often overlooked by travelers who prefer more beaten paths. Culturally, Snæfellsnes holds significance as well. Its dramatic scenery served as the backdrop for Jules Verne's iconic novel "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and subsequent film adaptations. It also stood in for the northern landscapes in "Game of Thrones." Mt. Kirkjufell, beloved by Icelanders, famously depicted the Arrowhead mountain. Exploring Snæfellsnes reveals not only Mt. Kirkjufell but also the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, the awe-inspiring Arnarstapi Bird Cliffs with their stone bridge and arch, the striking Djúpalónssandur black beach, and much more. Visitors may also encounter the famed black church of Búðir and perhaps catch a glimpse of seals at Ytri-Tunga beach.

Spend the day in Snæfellsnes National Park, described as “Iceland in Miniature,” on a full-day tour from Reykjavik. Following your transfer from the city center, travel along the coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Snæfellsnes Glacier, enjoying mountain scenery on one side, and the unique Breiðafjörður beach on the other. Locals call it the "Golden Beach" as it is one of the only beaches in Iceland that is not made of black sand. Pass small towns and fishing villages, including the hamlets of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, and see spectacular birds nesting in cliffs by the sea. Look out for other wildlife, including - if you are lucky - seals! End in the center of the park at the mighty Snæfellsjökull volcano glacier, made famous by Jules Verne in “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” On the north side of the peninsula you will see the famous church-shaped Kirkjufell Mountain, with the nearby waterfall of Kirkjufellfoss.