Mountains in Iceland
From the iconic cone of Kirkjufell to the remote table mountain of Herðubreið — Iceland's mountains offer some of the world's most dramatic hiking and photography.
Iceland's mountains are shaped by volcanic forces, glacial erosion and tectonic activity — creating peaks that range from perfectly symmetrical volcanic cones to dramatic flat-topped tuyas and jagged rhyolite ridges painted in vivid colours.
The most famous is Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula — the most photographed mountain in Iceland. But nearly every region has its own iconic peak that defines the local landscape.
Many of Iceland's mountains can be hiked by fit visitors without technical climbing experience. Mount Esja near Reykjavík is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the country. Highland mountains require 4WD access and summer-only visits.
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Featured Mountains in Iceland
Iceland's Most Iconic Mountains
From volcanic cones to glacial peaks — hiking, photography and dramatic landscapes.
Kirkjufell
Iceland's Most Photographed Mountain
Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) rises 463m above the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, creating one of Iceland's most iconic silhouettes. Its distinctive cone shape and nearby waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss make it the most photographed mountain in Iceland.
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Mount Esja
Reykjavík's Backyard Mountain
Esja dominates Reykjavík's skyline at 914m. Multiple hiking trails lead to various peaks, with the most popular route taking 2-3 hours to reach Þverfellshorn (780m). The views over Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay are spectacular.
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Mount Hekla
Gateway to Hell
Hekla (1,491m) is one of Iceland's most active and notorious volcanoes, erupting over 20 times since 874. In medieval times, Europeans believed it was the entrance to Hell. The 4-hour summit hike requires experience and good conditions.
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Vestrahorn
Batman Mountain
Vestrahorn's jagged 454m peaks create one of Iceland's most dramatic mountain profiles. Its nickname "Batman Mountain" comes from its distinctive silhouette. The black sand beach of Stokksnes provides perfect reflections.
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Snæfellsjökull
Journey to the Center of the Earth
This 1,446m glacier-capped stratovolcano towers over the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Jules Verne chose it as the starting point for "Journey to the Center of the Earth." On clear days, it's visible from Reykjavík, 120km away.
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Landmannalaugar
Rhyolite Rainbow Mountains
Landmannalaugar's mountains showcase rhyolite geology in incredible colors - pink, green, yellow, blue, and black. This highland area at 600m elevation is the starting point for the famous Laugavegur hiking trail.
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Herðubreið
Queen of Icelandic Mountains
Herðubreið (1,682m) is a magnificent table mountain formed by subglacial volcanic eruptions. Rising from the Ódáðahraun lava desert, its flat-topped peak and steep sides create a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
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Askja & Víti
Volcanic Caldera Lake
Askja is a massive volcanic caldera in the remote Dyngjufjöll mountains. Within it lies Víti, a warm blue crater lake where you can swim, and Öskjuvatn, one of Iceland's deepest lakes at 220m.
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Mælifell
Green Pyramid in Black Desert
Mælifell is a perfect pyramid-shaped volcanic cone covered in vibrant green moss, rising 200m from the black Mýrdalssandur desert. The contrast between green mountain and black sand creates surreal photos.
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Eyjafjallajökull
The One Nobody Can Pronounce
Eyjafjallajökull (1,651m) became world-famous in 2010 when its eruption created massive flight disruptions. The glacier-capped stratovolcano overlooks the south coast, with waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss at its feet.
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Þórsmörk
Thor's Forest
Þórsmörk is a mountain valley between three glaciers: Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. Protected from harsh winds, it's one of Iceland's most lush areas with birch forests and incredible hiking.
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Bláfjöll
Blue Mountains
Bláfjöll, meaning 'Blue Mountains,' is a picturesque mountain range located just southeast of Reykjavík on the Reykjanes peninsula. Renowned for its winter sports facilities, it transforms into a bustling ski resort during the colder months, as vividly captured in the image with numerous skiers, buildings, and a network of power lines against the snow-covered slopes.
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All Mountains in Iceland
Akrafjall
west-iceland
Akurfell
east-iceland
Arnarfell
reykjanes
Arnarfell hið mikla
south-iceland
Arnarfell Þingvellir
south-iceland
Axlir
westfjords
Barð
north-iceland
Bárður Snæfellsás
west-iceland
Bookable TourPrivate Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
Barmur
westfjords
Barnaborgir
west-iceland
Baula
west-iceland
Bergárheiði
east-iceland
Bergþór úr Bláfelli
south-iceland
Berunestindur
east-iceland
Bíldsfell
region-south-iceland
Bjálfafell
east-iceland
Bookable TourPrivate 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
Bláfjöll
south-iceland
Bolafjall
westfjords
Bolafjall Cliff Trail
Westfjords
Borg á Mýrum
west-iceland
Borgir
north-iceland
Botnssúlur
west-iceland
Breiðabólstaðarfjall
west-iceland
Breiðamerkurfjall Viewpoint
south-iceland
Bookable TourGlacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
Brennisteinsalda Mountain
south-iceland
Brennisteinsfjöll
reykjanes
Bruni
westfjords
Accommodation
Stay Near Iceland's Mountains
Guesthouses and hotels with mountain views and easy trail access
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in Iceland?
Hvannadalshnúkur at 2,110 m is Iceland's highest peak, located on the rim of Öræfajökull volcano in Vatnajökull National Park. Ascending it requires a guided glacier tour and is best done in May–July.
What is the most famous mountain in Iceland?
Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is Iceland's most photographed mountain — a distinctive arrowhead-shaped peak beside the waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss. It became internationally known after appearing in Game of Thrones.
Can beginners hike mountains in Iceland?
Yes — Mt. Esja near Reykjavík and Skálafell in East Iceland are excellent for beginners. Many peaks require no technical climbing skills. Always bring layers, waterproofs and check the weather forecast before setting out, as conditions can change quickly.
Do I need a guide to climb Iceland's mountains?
Most accessible mountains can be hiked independently with proper gear and navigation skills. Technical routes on glaciated peaks like Hvannadalshnúkur require certified guides. Always register your hike at safetravel.is and check road conditions.
When is the best time to hike Iceland's mountains?
June to September is prime hiking season when F-roads and highland trails are open. July and August offer the most reliable weather. Spring (May) and autumn (October) suit experienced hikers who prefer fewer crowds and dramatic light.
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