With all the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, it says a lot to be the most photographed area on the island. Also, Grundarfjordur is a setting for the Game of Thrones movie series. Even more, it’s all within walking distance from the charming town with incredible wildlife in the harbor and area. So, there is plenty to see and do on a scenic walking tour. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I stopped at this port and had a wonderful day discovering the Grundarfjordur Iceland highlights. So, read on to learn about how to make the most of your time at this unique destination.
The village of Grundarfjordur has about 900 residents and lies between the harbor and mountain range. It’s on the northern part of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland just north of Reykjavik. About half of the population works in the fishing industry. Because its waters are filled with herring, this is one of the few places in Iceland with Orcas. There are waterfalls nearby to see afoot and puffin colonies accessible on a boat tour. By land or sea, this area is a treasure to explore.
Grundarfjordur Iceland Highlights
Kirkjufell “Church Mountain” and Kirkjufellsfoss
The 3 km walk to Kirkjufell and Kirjufellsfoss from the town center is a pleasant and scenic path. There is also a shuttle for 10 Euros that takes you directly to the site. I recommend walking one direction because there is so much to see along the way. The 463 m high Kirkjufell is the most photographed mountain in Iceland. In Game of Thrones, it’s named Arrowhead Mountain, home of the Night King, featured in seasons 6 and 7. Framing the mountain with Kirkjufellsfoss is the perfect picture with both the uniquely shaped mountain and waterfalls. People do climb the mountain, however, there are hazards and have been fatalities.
I took the shuttle there and walked back with many unique sites along the way. I stopped to pet beautiful Icelandic horses, observed sheep, waterfalls and reflections of Kirjufell on a small lake.
The Saga Centre
The Saga Centre is a wonderful tourist informational center with maps, tours, café, library and internet. The library is in the same building and has exhibits on old fishing boats and gear. Also, in the same building is the Baeringsstofa Photo Museum on the history of Grundarfjordur.
Grundarfoss and Kvernarfoss Waterfalls
On the opposite side of town from Kirkjufell about 3 km are these breathtaking waterfalls. I just went to Grundarfoss and it was quite the journey getting there. I walked along the Road 54 past the Kverna Farm and waterfall to the sign for Grundarfoss.
Along the way, Arctic Terns divebombed me, because they protect their young. I opened my umbrella, which worked fantastic protecting me. It’s important to protect your head because they will thump it, trying to scare you away. I walked upstream along the Grundar River to get close as seen in my photo. This beautiful waterfall plunges 70 m from the canyon wall into the river, enswathed by green, mossy rocks.
Birdwatching Boat Tours
There are various boat tours in the harbor and to nearby islands. Melrakkaey Island is a protected island with basalt cliffs that are home to many seabirds, such as, shags and puffins.
Located on the tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, this is one of the 3 national parks in Iceland. Named after its volcano and glacier, this park inspires artists. For instance, it’s featured in Jules Verne novel, “A Journey to the Centre of the Earth,” and the Halldor Laxness novel, “Christianity Beneath the Glacier.”
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