August 24: Kirkjufellsfoss

We got up early and had the beautiful paradise (Kerlingarfjoll)  to ourselves as we explored it for a second day.  With a second cup of coffee in hand, we were off on a record breaking drive-athon with departure at 7:15 am and arrival in Kirkjufellsfoss at 5:30 pm. We had quick stops in Arnarstapi, and Dritvik along with a lunch stop but most of the day was dedicated to moving from one location to another. 

At Arnarstapi, we barely made it out of our van before heading back into it.  We did take a couple of pictures of a lovely black church Búðakirkja(.  According to the Arctic Adventure webpage, “Located on the south side of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Búðakirkja is a local parish church that dates back to 1703.” It is said to be one of the most photographed churches in Iceland.  

Our next stop was in Djupalonssandur, home to a former fishing village that has been transformed to a tourist’s dream. The black sand (pebbles), rocks,  and sea structures provide a stark contrast to the deep blue waters.  The pebbles that make up the floor of the beach are so smooth that they beg you to pick them up and slide them through your fingers but don’t take any home – it is forbidden.  According to the FunIceland webpage, “Djúpalónssandur is a black pebbled beach located on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland. The beach is at the foot of Snæfellsnesjökull glacier and is one of the highlights of West Iceland.” 

We eventually made it to our destination for today – the spectacular peninsula of Kirkjufellsfoss (Church Mountain Falls).  After a quick dinner, we made our way to the viewing point that showed the waterfalls and mountain for several sunset photos.  We were hardly the only ones to think about this prime opportunity as several photographers with tripod in hand were also there to capture the special moment.  The waterfalls (Kirkjufellsfoss) provide the perfect frame for Mt. Kirkjufell.