Keilir Mountain in Iceland

Keilir Mountain in Iceland: Peak, Height, History, Geography

Keilir mountain in Iceland is a subglacial mound formed during the Pleistocene. It can also be classified as a conical tuya. Keilir is made of glassy, angular rocks originating from volcanic under-ice eruptions. Keilir Mountain is an important part of iceland‘s Culture as in the past, seamen and fishermen used it as a navigation landmark. Today, it is the most prominent feature of the Reykjanes Peninsula and the first breathtaking wonder for visitors coming from the Keflavik Airport. 

What is the Location of Keilir Mountain?

Keilir Mountain in Iceland is situated in the western parts, on the Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest of Hafnarfjörður. To be more specific, the geographic coordinates of Keilir Mountain are 63.9425° N, 22.1717° W.

What is the height of the Keilir Mountain?

The Keilir Mountain stands 397 meters tall. Its basal area is 0.773 square kilometers, and the summit area is 0.004 square kilometers. The overall volume of Keilir Mountain is 0.0362 square cubic.  

Is there an access to Keilir Mountain?

Yes, there is access to Keilir Mountain. Travelers need to take Road 41 and stop halfway amidst Reykjavik and Keflavik. The car park is gravel and requires a 4×4 jeep for a more comfortable journey. If visiting from Höskuldarvellir, reaching Keilir requires a 3-kilometers walk. 

Is there a hiking trail to Keilir Mountain?

Yes, a hiking trail to Keilir Mountains is available for hikers looking for moderate mountaineering. Reaching the top requires 2 to 3 hours of hiking on a loose but not overly steep terrain. However, it is rugged and can be a challenge for visitors used to more leisure hikes. 

Images of Keilir Mountain

Where to Stay at Keilir Mountain

There are several excellent hotels and accommodation options near Keilir. For example, visitors can stay in Hotel Viking, Silica Hotel, Harbor View, or Northern Lights Inn & Max’s Restaurant. 

What are the Activities near Keilir Mountain?

Activities near Keilir Mountain include visiting the popular Blue Lagoon and the mesmerizing Snæfellsjökull glacier. For adventurous tourists hiking Keilir, the top offers a 360-degree view and a glance at the surrounding, Faxaflói Bay, Atlantic Ocean, and Reykjavik City. 

What are the similar mountains to Keilir Mountain in Iceland?

Mountains in Iceland that are similar to the Keilir Mountain include:

  • Hvannadalshnúkur Mountain (6.952′)
  • Eyjafjallajökull Mountain (4.882′)
  • Hekla Mountain (5.791′)
  • Hofsjökull Mountain (5.046′)
  • Kirkjufell Mountain (6.591′)
  • Snæfellsjökull Mountain (6.921′).

Are there any National Park in Keilir Mountain?

There are three National Parks in Iceland and the closest one to Keilir is Snæfellsjökull. The Snæfellsjökull National Park is a wildly popular destination for tourists due to its proximity to the capital Reykjavik. It was officially established as a National Park in 2001. 

Are there Volcanoes around Keilir Mountain in Iceland?

Volcanoes in Iceland can be found in every corner. Keilir is a volcano itself. Keilir has not erupted in recent years. However, in March 2021 the volcano showed increased seismic activity. 

Are there Glaciers around Keilir Mountain in Iceland?

Glaciers in Iceland are a common landform. The Snæfellsjökull glacier is close to the Keilir Mountains. Snæfellsjökull is a glacier-capped stratovolcano, and it is as much as 700.000 years old. 

Which city is closest to Keilir Mountain in Iceland?

Cities in Iceland close to the Keilir Mountain include Hafnarfjordur, Grindavik, and Vogar. The capital Reyjkavik is pretty close too. Namely, the distance between Reykjavik and Keilir Mountain is 35 kilometers which translates to less than an hour drive. 

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Staff Writer