Exploring the Mystical Myvatn Region in Iceland

A Final Embrace of Myvatn's Magic

As our time in the Myvatn Region draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of its unique beauty. Today was a day of exploration, adventure, and reflection, a perfect culmination of our Icelandic journey. The landscapes here have a way of seeping into your soul, and I know I'll carry these memories with me long after we've left.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort. The cozy atmosphere and delicious local fare were exactly what we needed to fuel our adventures. There’s something so comforting about starting the day with fresh, homemade food, especially when you know you have a day of hiking ahead of you. I remember my grandmother always saying that a good breakfast is the key to a good day, and today, it certainly felt true. The view from the resort was stunning, the lake shimmering in the morning light, promising a day full of wonders.


Experience authentic Icelandic hospitality at Vogafjós Farm Resort with fresh farm-to-table cuisine near beautiful Lake Mývatn.
After breakfast, Liam and I decided to start with a hike and bike activity around the area. With the sun shining, it felt like the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the landscape one last time. We rented bikes from a local shop and set off on a trail that wound through the lava fields and along the lake shore. The fresh air, the sound of birds, and the stunning views made it an invigorating experience. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to snap photos. Liam, ever the patient one, simply smiled and waited, knowing how much I love capturing these moments.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland with Mývatn Activity's hiking and biking tours around the stunning Lake Mývatn.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

Our main destination for the morning was Dimmuborgir, the famed 'Dark Fortress'. I had read so much about this place, and seeing it in person was even more surreal than I imagined. The towering lava formations, twisted into bizarre shapes, created an otherworldly landscape that felt like stepping into a fantasy novel. We spent hours wandering through the maze of rocks, marveling at the unique geology and imagining the stories behind each formation. It’s easy to see why this place is steeped in Icelandic folklore; it truly feels like a place where trolls and mythical creatures might roam. I was particularly fascinated by Kirkjan (The Church), a cave open at both ends with a high-dome-shaped roof, resembling a Gothic church. The scale of it was incredible, and it was hard to believe it was formed naturally from lava.


Explore Dimmuborgir, Iceland's breathtaking lava field, offering unique rock formations, rich folklore, and stunning hiking trails.
As we hiked through Dimmuborgir, I couldn't help but think about the sheer power of nature that created this place. The lava field was formed around 2,300 years ago during a volcanic eruption, and the unique formations are the result of molten lava interacting with water. It's a humbling reminder of how small we are in the face of such immense forces. It was fascinating to learn that Dimmuborgir is thought to connect the Earth with infernal regions in Icelandic folklore. In Nordic Christian lore, it's believed to be the place where Satan landed after being cast out of heaven. Knowing this added an extra layer of intrigue to our exploration.

After our adventure in Dimmuborgir, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Kaffi Borgir, a cozy café located right in the heart of the lava field. The café offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the food was simple but delicious. I opted for a traditional Icelandic lamb soup, while Liam went for a hearty sandwich. As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments from the trip so far, reminiscing about the geothermal areas, the waterfalls, and the charming villages we'd visited. It was a perfect moment of peace and contentment.


Discover delicious homemade meals and unique souvenirs at Kaffi Borgir, set against the stunning backdrop of Dimmuborgir's lava formations.
In the afternoon, we decided to drive up to the Mývatn Lookout point. I had read that it offered panoramic views of the entire region, and I was eager to see it for myself. The drive up was scenic, winding through rolling hills and past shimmering lakes. When we reached the lookout, I was blown away by the view. From up high, we could see the entire Myvatn region spread out before us, a tapestry of volcanic craters, lava fields, and shimmering lakes. It was the perfect spot to take it all in, to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of this place. I took a few deep breaths, trying to imprint the image in my memory.


Discover the breathtaking views and unique geological wonders of Myvatn Lookout, your gateway to Iceland's natural beauty and adventure.
We spent a good hour at the lookout, simply soaking in the view and taking photos. The sun was beginning to dip in the sky, casting a warm golden light over the landscape. It was a magical moment, one that I knew I would cherish forever. Liam, ever the romantic, put his arm around me and whispered, We'll have to come back here someday. I smiled and nodded, knowing that he was right. This place had captured our hearts, and we would definitely be back.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to stop by the Handicrafts Market in Reykjahlíð. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remind me of our trip. The market was small but charming, filled with locally made crafts and goods. I browsed through the stalls, admiring the intricate woolen sweaters, the delicate ceramics, and the unique jewelry. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, a small ceramic bird, and a few postcards to send to friends and family back home. I was happy to support the local artisans and to take home a piece of Iceland with me.


Explore the Handicrafts Market in Reykjahlíð for authentic Icelandic sweaters and unique artisanal crafts, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
For our final dinner in the Myvatn Region, we chose Mylla Restaurant, known for its modern take on Icelandic cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was absolutely divine. I started with a creamy seafood soup, followed by a perfectly cooked Arctic char. Liam opted for the lamb shank, which he declared was the best he'd ever had. We savored every bite, knowing that this was our last taste of Icelandic cuisine for a while. As we ate, we reflected on our journey, sharing our favorite moments and expressing our gratitude for the incredible experiences we'd had. It was the perfect way to end our time in Myvatn.


Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Mylla Restaurant in stunning Myvatn—where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Our time in the Myvatn Region has been nothing short of magical. We've explored stunning landscapes, encountered unique wildlife, and immersed ourselves in the rich Icelandic culture. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been an adventure that has enriched our lives and strengthened our bond as a couple. I'm so grateful to have shared this experience with Liam, and I know that we'll cherish these memories forever.

As we prepare to leave Myvatn tomorrow and head back to Reykjavik before our flight home, I can't help but feel a little sad. But I also know that this is not goodbye, but rather see you later. Iceland has a way of drawing you back in, and I have no doubt that we'll return someday to explore even more of its wonders. Until then, I'll keep sharing my stories and photos, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own Icelandic adventures. And who knows, maybe I’ll even pick up knitting again, inspired by the beautiful woolen crafts I've seen here. For now, takk fyrir, Iceland. Thank you for the memories.