Krýsuvíkurkirkja

Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland
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Krýsuvíkurkirkja is a small, picturesque church located right on the outskirts of Krýsuvík. Ever since a church was built here in 1857 it has become a significant landmark in the area, nestled between the big lava field and mountains of Krýsuvík. The church architecture is simple and works in harmony with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. This small church is literally the only structure you can see for miles from almost every viewpoint, making this location feel like you are in the middle of nowhere. Arnarfell mountain stands alone in the background, a big tuff dune in the middle of a waste lava field and then the Atlantic Ocean beyond. Truly a mesmerising place.

Climate

The weather is Reykjanes Peninsula can be described as harsh and unpredictable like the rest of the country. The region experiences strong winds, heavy rain, and occasional snowfall throughout the year. The temperature can vary greatly from day to day, with summer temperatures ranging from 10°c to 15°c and winter temperatures dropping as low as -5°c. Visitors should come prepared for any type of weather.
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Temperature averages

Lighting

The longest day in Iceland is multiple days from May through July when the sun doesn't set. The daylight hours in Iceland on the shortest days of the year are 4-5 hours per day (December to January).
Data source

Accessibility

The church location has a small parking lot for offloading, but further up the church road is another parking lot of medium size, suitable for bigger basecamps. There are no facilities at this location so everything needs to be brought in: toilets, holding area and general basecamps. Phone coverage is good but average in few spots near the road.
Public transportation unavailable
There is no public transportation available in this area
Car recommended
Unchallenging terrain accessible by car
Good phone coverage
Generally good phone coverage without any major interruptions
Not needed
Guide is not needed

Permits

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The area is owned by the government, so a government permit is needed.
Shooting permits are issued by the local government
Reykjanes Peninsula is on UNESCO Global Geopark list
Property owner unknown

Basecamp and facilities

The church location has a small parking lot for offloading, but further up the church road is another parking lot of medium size, suitable for bigger basecamps. There are no facilities at this location so everything needs to be brought in: toilets, holding area and general basecamps. Phone coverage is good but average in few spots near the road.

Risk factors

The area around the church is a rugged and rough meadow, making it easy to twist your ankle or fall, especially in wet weather. The area is also very muddy with marshes that are hard to see because of the grass.

Visitors

The area is popular with tourists and locals but can be managed with PAs and park rangers. With the right permit you could close this location off.

Where does our information come from?

In collaboration with a team of experienced producers, we scoured through every location on massif.network to bring you the most relevant and up-to-date information. We provide photos and videos and all other location information.

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