Near our digs in Grundarfjordur is Iceland’s most photographed mountain: Kirkjufell. Which is translated as “Church Mountain” because it’s shape resembles the roofline of a kirk (church).

I have seen this mountain in guide books and on maps, never knowing where in Iceland it was or even what is was called. The mountain was always photographed with the waterfall (Kirkjufellsfoss) in the foreground (Iceland boast over 10,000 waterfalls). The mountain has been used as a filming location in television series such as Game of Thrones.

This scene seems desolate, requiring a long hike or drive to get to.

This was further from the truth as a major road runs between mountain and waterfall and a port, big enough to handle cruise ships, is a quick five minute drive away. As for the long hike, it is three minute ramble from car park along a paved path to the famous vista.

I knew I had to sketch this iconic Icelandic icon and I hoped the weather would be accommodating.

It is said of Icelandic weather, “ If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” It seems you can experience all four seasons in a quarter of an hour.

When we arrived there was rain and wind. Icelandic wind seems more intense that other climes. When I stepped out of the van, the rain nearly ripped my raincoat off!! The wind was so intense that it was blowing water from the waterfall upstream and over the foot bridge!

But I was determined to get Kirkjufell into my sketchbook, by hook or by crook! Having clips to keep my sketchbook open in heavy winds was a big help. Between periods of precipitation, I sketched the mountain quickly with my brush pen and I was happy with the result despite the inclement weather.