Exploring the Mystical Myvatn Region in Iceland

Arrival in Mývatn: A Photographer's Dream

After a long journey from Banff, Liam and I have finally arrived in the Mývatn region. The air here is crisp and clean, carrying a hint of sulfur – a promise of the geothermal wonders that await. I am eager to immerse myself in this otherworldly landscape, camera in hand, ready to capture the raw beauty of Iceland.

Our first day in the Mývatn region was nothing short of spectacular. The drive from Reykjavik was scenic, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer, untamed beauty of this area. The landscape is a dramatic tapestry of volcanic craters, expansive lava fields, and shimmering lakes – a feast for any wildlife photographer's eyes. I already know this trip will yield some incredible shots, and I can't wait to share them all with you.

The beauty of Mývatn is not just in its landscapes, but in the feeling of being utterly immersed in nature's grandeur.

Scenic Arrival: Lake Mývatn View Point

Our initial stop was the Lake Mývatn View Point. I'd read so much about this vista, and it still managed to exceed my expectations. The panoramic view of Lake Mývatn was breathtaking. The lake stretched out before us, dotted with small islands and surrounded by lush green wetlands. The light was perfect, casting a soft glow over the water, and I couldn't resist snapping a few shots. Liam, ever the supportive husband, helped me set up my tripod and offered his keen eye for composition. I could already tell this spot would be perfect for capturing the Northern Lights later in the week, should we be so lucky.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Mývatn View Point, a stunning natural attraction in Iceland known for its unique landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Exploring the Pseudo Craters of Skútustaðagígar

Next on our itinerary was the Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters. These unique formations are the result of gas explosions when hot lava flowed over the wetlands thousands of years ago. As we walked along the marked paths, we were surrounded by these bowl-shaped landforms, each covered in vibrant green grass. Sheep grazed peacefully on the slopes, adding a touch of pastoral charm to the volcanic landscape. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, and we spotted several species of waterfowl and other water birds. I managed to capture a few shots of a Northern Wheatear, a small, beautiful bird flitting among the craters. Liam, with his usual enthusiasm, was fascinated by the geological history of the area and kept reading aloud from the information signs.


Explore the stunning Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters, a geological wonder near Lake Mývatn, rich in natural beauty and wildlife.

Lunch at Kaffi Borgir: A Taste of Iceland

By lunchtime, we were both ravenous. We headed to Kaffi Borgir, a charming café located in the Dimmuborgir area. The café offered a selection of Scandinavian cuisine, and we opted for the smoked lamb and grilled trout. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. I particularly enjoyed the traditional Geysir bread, a dark, sweet rye bread baked underground using geothermal heat. It was served with smoked trout, a local delicacy that I found surprisingly delightful. The café also had a lovely view of the surrounding lava formations, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel before our next adventure. We browsed the souvenir store and I picked up a couple of small, handcrafted items to remind me of our visit.


Discover delicious homemade meals and unique souvenirs at Kaffi Borgir, set against the stunning backdrop of Dimmuborgir's lava formations.

Relaxation at Mývatn Nature Baths

After lunch, we made our way to the Mývatn Nature Baths. Often referred to as the Blue Lagoon of the north, these geothermal baths offer a more tranquil and less crowded experience. The water, rich in minerals, is drawn from depths of up to 2,500 meters and maintains a temperature of 36 to 40 degrees Celsius (97 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit). As we sank into the warm, milky-blue water, surrounded by clouds of steam, all the tension from our journey melted away. I found the high sulfur content quite pungent but supposedly good for the skin. There's also a swim-up bar!. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in the stunning natural surroundings.


Experience the serene geothermal waters of Mývatn Nature Baths, where relaxation meets the stunning landscapes of Northern Iceland.

Dinner at Mylla Restaurant: A Culinary Delight

For dinner, we chose Mylla Restaurant, known for its Scandinavian cuisine and creative dishes. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We decided to try the Arctic Char and the lamb, both of which were cooked to perfection. The Arctic Char was particularly memorable, with its crispy skin and delicate flavor. The meal was a bit on the pricier side, but the quality of the food and the attentive service made it worth every penny. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes when we returned home – a little taste of Iceland in our Banff kitchen.


Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Mylla Restaurant in stunning Myvatn—where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.

A Sweet Start: Breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort. This unique place offers a farm-to-table experience, with many of the ingredients sourced directly from the farm. The breakfast spread was impressive, featuring fresh dairy products, homemade bread, and local jams. What made it even more special was the view of the cows being milked through the dining room window. It was a truly unique and charming experience that highlighted the connection between food and nature.


Experience authentic Icelandic hospitality at Vogafjós Farm Resort with fresh farm-to-table cuisine near beautiful Lake Mývatn.

Shopping at the Handicrafts Market

Before heading back to our accommodation, we made a stop at the Handicrafts Market in Reykjahlíð. I was hoping to find some authentic Icelandic souvenirs, and the market did not disappoint. There were stalls selling everything from woolen sweaters and handmade ceramics to locally sourced skincare products. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted scarf and a small ceramic bird, both perfect reminders of our time in Mývatn. Liam, surprisingly, was drawn to a stall selling traditional Icelandic jewelry and bought a silver pendant for me, featuring a Viking rune. It was a thoughtful gesture that I will always cherish.


Explore the Handicrafts Market in Reykjahlíð for authentic Icelandic sweaters and unique artisanal crafts, perfect for memorable souvenirs.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, we made our way back to our accommodation. Today has been a whirlwind of geothermal wonders, volcanic landscapes, and culinary delights. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to explore the lava field Dimmuborgir, the Grjótagjá cave, and the geothermal area of Hverir. I am also looking forward to possibly stopping by the R5 Micro Bar for a drink. For now, I'll rest, recharge, and prepare for another day of adventure in this magical land. Tonight, I am falling asleep with a full heart, a camera full of photos, and a soul filled with the serene beauty of Mývatn.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Lava field Dimmuborgir, Grjótagjá and Hverir. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!