Exploring the Mystical Myvatn Region in Iceland

A Day of Serene Discoveries

Today was a gentle unfolding of Myvatn’s subtle charms. After the dramatic landscapes we’ve traversed, it felt like a breath, a pause to appreciate the quieter melodies of this region. Liam and I set out with no grand agenda, just a desire to absorb the essence of the lake and its surroundings.

Our day began, as all good days should, with coffee. We found ourselves at Kvika Kaffi for breakfast. It was a cozy spot, filled with locals chatting away in Icelandic, a language that still sounds like elvish to my ears. The coffee was strong, and the pastries were flaky and sweet – the perfect fuel for a day of wandering.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Kvika Kaffi in Reykjahlíð, where comfort meets tradition in every bite.
With caffeine coursing through our veins, we decided to explore Kalfastrond. The drive itself was a treat, the road winding through lava fields that seemed to stretch on forever. The landscape here is so raw, so untouched; it feels like stepping back in time, or perhaps onto another planet entirely. I found myself thinking about my childhood in Kongsvinger, Norway, and how different, yet equally captivating, the landscapes were. The forests of my youth held a different kind of magic, a softer, more intimate beauty, while Iceland's stark vistas command a sense of awe and respect.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kalfastrond, a scenic spot in Iceland offering stunning landscapes and serene nature experiences.
When we arrived at Kalfastrond, the wind was picking up, carrying with it the scent of the lake and distant snow. The area is known for its dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations. We walked along the trails, cameras in hand, trying to capture the essence of this place. The light was constantly shifting, creating a play of shadows and highlights on the rugged terrain. I was particularly fascinated by the lava pillars rising from the lake, silent sentinels guarding the shore. I am always looking for that perfect angle, that fleeting moment when the light and shadow align to tell a story.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our list was The Fly Lands, a name that both intrigued and slightly worried me. Liam, ever the pragmatist, had read up on the area and assured me that the flies, or midges as they're more accurately called, were mostly harmless. As we approached, I could see why the area had earned its name. Swarms of tiny flies danced in the air, creating a shimmering haze. Thankfully, they weren't as bothersome as I had feared, and we were able to explore the area without too much swatting. The Fly Lands turned out to be a fascinating ecosystem, a testament to the resilience of life in this volcanic landscape. I was struck by the delicate balance of nature here, how even the smallest creatures played a vital role in the grand scheme of things.


Discover The Fly Lands, a breathtaking tourist attraction near Lake Mývatn, showcasing unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes in Iceland.
For lunch, we stopped at Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn. It was a simple meal, but incredibly satisfying after a morning spent in the fresh air. The fish was fresh and crispy, and the chips were perfectly salted. We sat outside, watching the world go by, and listening to the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore. I am not a big fan of fried food, but the fresh fish was so tempting that I had to indulge.


Experience the authentic taste of Iceland at Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn – where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views.
Our final stop of the day was Hofdi, a peninsula jutting out into Lake Myvatn. This area is known for its unusual lava formations and the thousands of trees that were planted here by a local couple. It was a welcome change from the barren landscapes we had been exploring, a little oasis of green in a sea of black lava. The story goes that the couple dedicated their summers to planting trees here, creating a forest where once there was none. After the husband passed away, the wife donated the property to the county, so everyone could enjoy it.


Explore the serene beauty of Hofdi, a picturesque nature preserve in Iceland, filled with lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife perfect for nature lovers.
Liam and I strolled through the woods, hand in hand, enjoying the peace and quiet. The air was filled with the sound of birdsong, and the sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating dappled patterns on the ground. It was a magical place, a testament to the power of human dedication and the enduring beauty of nature. I was reminded of the forests near my hometown of Kongsvinger, Norway, and the sense of peace I always found there.

Before dinner, we decided to stop by Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery. Liam, being a brewery manager himself, was particularly excited about this. We sampled a few of the local beers, and I even tried a sip, though I'm more of a wine person myself. It was interesting to see how they incorporated local ingredients into their brews, adding a unique Icelandic twist to the traditional beer-making process. We ended up buying a few bottles to take back to our accommodation, a little taste of Myvatn to savor later.


Experience the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi Sel and Mývatn Öl Brewery, where local brews and homemade delights meet stunning natural beauty.
For dinner, we decided on Daddi's Pizza. It wasn't exactly traditional Icelandic cuisine, but we were in the mood for something comforting and familiar. The pizza was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. It was a perfect end to a day of exploration and discovery. As we ate, we talked about our plans for tomorrow. We are hoping to visit the Forest Lagoon, Skútustaðagígar, and the Myvatn Geothermal Area. Liam is also excited about the prospect of stopping by Götubarinn, a local bar, for a nightcap.


Experience the best pizza in Mývatn at Daddi's Pizza—where quality ingredients meet Icelandic hospitality.
As I sit here now, writing in my travel journal, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Myvatn is a place that seeps into your soul, a place that reminds you of the beauty and fragility of our planet. It's a place I know I'll never forget. And as I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the whispers of the wind, carrying with them the secrets of this enchanting land. I did forget my power bank today, but I managed to capture enough photos to remember this day.

Tomorrow promises more adventures, and I can't wait to see what wonders await us. The Forest Lagoon beckons with its promise of relaxation, and the Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters offer a glimpse into the region's volcanic past. And, of course, there's the Myvatn Geothermal Area, a place where the earth's raw power is on full display. I am excited to capture all of the beauty tomorrow will hold.

Goodnight from Myvatn!