Live Your Best Lives
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, enjoy birdwatching, and explore the unique geological formations. The mountain is also great for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Strandberg is named "Church Mountain" in English, perhaps because its shape evokes a church tower. A beautifully shaped, symmetrical mountain, it resembles a straw hat from certain angles. It's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from downtown Reykjavík.
Across the road from Caomao Mountain lies a small, enchanting waterfall. Its picturesque beauty echoes the mountain's backdrop, and the waters appear even more limpid against the backdrop of the verdant mountains. During the midsummer midnight sun, the scenery is even more dazzling. This spot is a favorite for photographers year-round. In winter, the area in front of Caomao Mountain Falls is covered in ice, creating a surreal scene. It's also a popular spot for photographing the aurora borealis, and the beauty of the scene, adorned with stars and the northern lights, is unforgettable.
The best time to photograph the aurora is from late August to mid-April.
3 hours
free
All day
Straw Hat Mountain is known for its distinctive shape, resembling a traditional straw hat. It has been a natural landmark in Iceland, attracting nature lovers and photographers. The mountain is also part of Iceland's geological heritage, formed by volcanic activity over millennia.
Located in the south of Iceland, the mountain is accessible by car or taxi from nearby towns such as Vik. There are no direct public transport options, so a car is recommended for convenience.
Straw Hat Mountain is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is milder and the hiking trails are accessible.
There is no entrance fee to visit the mountain. It's a natural attraction, so visitors can explore it freely without needing tickets.
No advance booking is required. The mountain is open to the public, and visitors can hike and explore at their leisure.
Expect to spend around 2 to 4 hours exploring the mountain, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the summit or taking photos.
The summit offers the best views, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding volcanic landscape. The mountain's unique geological features are also worth noting, with some areas offering stunning rock formations.
Guided tours are not typically available at Straw Hat Mountain. Visitors are encouraged to explore independently. However, local guides may offer tours in nearby areas.
The best photography spots are from the summit and along the hiking trail where you can capture the mountain's unique shape and surrounding landscapes, particularly during the golden hour at sunrise or sunset.
Start your hike from the base of the mountain, taking the main trail up to the summit. Take your time at the top to enjoy the panoramic views and photograph the surroundings. The route is relatively short, but it can be steep in sections.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, visiting at night for stargazing or the northern lights in winter is possible if the weather permits.
The mountain is not typically crowded, especially outside the summer months. Weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, are the least crowded times to visit.
There are no facilities directly on the mountain. It's best to bring your own food, water, and supplies. The nearest towns offer restaurants and shops for basic supplies.
The hike to the summit can be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues, as the trail is uneven and steep in parts. Children and physically active visitors will find it manageable.
Since there is no entrance fee and the mountain is a natural site, cash is not required. However, nearby towns may accept cards or mobile payments for services and supplies.
There are several restaurants and cafes in nearby towns such as Vik, where you can enjoy traditional Icelandic cuisine. These are the closest options for meals and refreshments.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most Icelandic restaurants, especially in larger towns like Vik. Halal options may be more limited, but some restaurants may accommodate special dietary requests.
There are various accommodation options in Vik, ranging from guesthouses to hotels. For a more rustic experience, camping near the mountain is also an option during the warmer months.
Nearby attractions include the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, Dyrhólaey, and the Sólheimajökull glacier, all easily accessible by car from Straw Hat Mountain.
There are souvenir shops in nearby towns, where you can buy traditional Icelandic items like woolen clothing, local crafts, and volcanic rock souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip is by car, which gives you the flexibility to visit nearby attractions and continue exploring the Icelandic countryside.
