23-10-2024
A beautiful and quaint fishing town in the shadow of the famous Kirkjufell Mountain, Grundarfjordur is a peaceful place to visit for those looking to experience a taste of authentic Icelandic life and soak in some spectacular nature views.
Discover more about the town of Grundarfjordur on the renowned Snæfellsnes Peninsula in our comprehensive travel guide, including where exactly Grundarfjordur is, how to get there and top tips for your visit.
A small Icelandic fishing town with less than 900 inhabitants, Grundarfjordur began to form in 1940 around the fishing and fish processing industry, which today employs over half of the town’s population. As well as being an important trading town, Grundarfjordur is known for its beauty, having won several awards for its pristine appearance.
Sitting in the shadow of the incredible Kirkjufell Mountain, the most photographed mountain in all of Iceland, the natural scenery around Grundarfjordur is truly spectacular. From the town, you can enjoy an unbeatable view of this epic mountain and waterfall from across the water.
The fascinating geology of the town of Grundarfjordur dates back 18 million years ago when a volcano in the area named Setberg, which was part of Iceland’s first active volcanic belt, became active. As well as volcanic activity, glacial movement played a big part in shaping the Grundarfjordur landscape, with Kirkjufell Mountain’s distinctive form being sculpted by two glaciers that gradually shaped the mountain during an Ice Age.
Today, you can explore the result of millions of years of dynamic geological activity by visiting all the incredible natural wonders and landscapes of Grundarfjordur, plus enjoy a range of fun activities offered by the town’s active social community.
Sitting in the west of Iceland, Grundarfjordur is located to the north of the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik and the south of the stunning natural wilderness area that is the West Fjords. The fjord of Breidafjordur flows past the town.
Grundarfjordur is located on the northern coast of the picturesque Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which is known as ‘Iceland in miniature’ due to being home to almost all of the unique geological features that can be found across Iceland. With glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lava caves and craters, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a must-visit location during your time in Iceland.
Reaching Grundarfjordur from Reykjavik takes 2 hours and 30 minutes by car via Route 54. You’ll need to take the main Ring Road in Iceland (Route 1) until the town of Borgarnes where you’ll reach Route 54, which will take you all the way to Grundarfjordur. The quickest route takes you onto Route 56 for a short stretch as soon as you reach the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, then back onto Route 54 to Grundarfjordur center.
So, what exactly can you do at Grundarfjordur? With a whole range of fun recreational activities to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Here are a few of our top recommendations:
Enjoy all the exciting activities that the Grundarfjordur area has to offer during your own Iceland vacation, exploring the incredible natural wonders and soaking in the relaxing atmosphere of the town. Take a look through our selection of affordable and reliable rental cars in Iceland to get started with your vacation planning, ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
By far the best way to travel around Iceland, having your own car gives you the ultimate freedom to travel wherever your heart desires, all on your own schedule. With a car you’ll be able to reach all of Iceland’s natural wilderness areas and coastal towns and villages like Grundarfjordur. Got any questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.