Kirkjufell rises 463 metres from the northern shore of the Snæfellsnes peninsula beside the town of Grundarfjörður — a steep, symmetrical pyramid of rock with a distinctive flat-topped summit that makes it one of Iceland's most recognisable mountains. In front of the mountain, the small braided Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall flows into the fjord, and the combination of waterfall and mountain in a single composition has become one of the most frequently photographed views in Iceland.
The mountain can be climbed by experienced hikers on a marked trail, but the route involves some steep and exposed sections and should not be attempted in poor weather or without appropriate footwear. The summit views extend across the fjords and peninsulas of the west coast on clear days. For most visitors, the walk to the waterfall viewpoint is sufficient — the mountain is equally impressive from the path beside the stream. The best light for photography is in the evening when the mountain catches the low sun; in summer the midnight sun creates extraordinary conditions.