Solo Adventure in Iceland's Myvatn Region

Nature's Embrace: A Day Unveiled in Mývatn

Today was a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Mývatn region. From panoramic vistas that stretched as far as the eye could see to the delicate beauty of Iceland's avian life, and the savory tastes of local cuisine, Mývatn truly captured my heart today. I am so excited to share another day of my solo journey with you all.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaffi Borgir. The cozy cafe was a welcome respite from the crisp morning air. I indulged in their soup buffet, a delightful assortment of traditional Icelandic soups, accompanied by the famous Geysir bread. It was the perfect fuel for the day ahead, setting me up for a morning of exploration and discovery. I overheard other travelers discussing their plans for the day - some were heading to the Dimmuborgir lava formations, while others were planning a trip to the Mývatn Nature Baths. The energy in the cafe was infectious, a buzz of excitement for all the adventures that Mývatn holds.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to my first destination: the Lake Mývatn panoramic point. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape unfolding in a tapestry of greens and blues. As I approached the viewpoint, I could already sense the grandeur that awaited me. And I wasn't disappointed. The view was simply breathtaking. The shimmering waters of Lake Mývatn stretched out before me, framed by rolling hills and the silhouettes of distant volcanic formations. I spent a good while there, just soaking it all in, feeling a sense of awe and gratitude for the sheer beauty of nature. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird overhead. I felt completely at peace, lost in the moment, and connected to the landscape around me. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel solo – the freedom to linger, to observe, to simply be.


Experience the breathtaking vistas and unique geological features at Lake Mývatn Panoramic Point, a must-visit tourist attraction in Iceland.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, when we allow ourselves to be fully present in the beauty that surrounds us.

After the panoramic point, I drove to Sigurgeir's Bird Museum. Now, I’ll admit, I'm not usually one for museums, but this one came highly recommended, and I was intrigued. Sigurgeir Stefánsson was born and raised in the Mývatn area and had a passion for birds. The museum houses Iceland’s largest private collection of birds, with specimens of nearly every breeding bird in Iceland. The museum is located on the Ytri-Neslönd farm by Lake Mývatn. It was opened in 2008 as a tribute to Sigurgeir and his dream. And what a fascinating place it turned out to be! The museum is a testament to one man's passion for avian life, showcasing an impressive collection of Icelandic bird species. What struck me most was the sheer diversity of birds in this region, each with its unique plumage and characteristics. I learned about their habitats, their migratory patterns, and their role in the delicate ecosystem of Mývatn. The museum also had a collection of eggs. It was eye-opening to see the variety in the size, shape, and color of the eggs, each perfectly adapted to its environment. I discovered that Sigurgeir Stefánsson, the museum's namesake, tragically drowned in Lake Mývatn at the young age of 37, before he could realize his dream of building a larger museum to house his collection. It was incredibly touching to see how his family and friends rallied together to make his vision a reality, creating a beautiful tribute to his life and his passion.


Discover the avian wonders of Iceland at Sigurgeir's Bird Museum, featuring a rich collection of native bird species in a stunning natural setting.

For lunch, I ventured to Bistro Sel & Pizza. I decided to try the trout. It was recommended to me by a local at the museum. The Bistro had a friendly and inviting atmosphere. The trout was delicious, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to perfection. The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were reasonable. It was the ideal place to refuel after a morning of exploration, and I left feeling satisfied and content.


Discover Bistro Sel & Pizza in Mývatn - where delicious flavors meet stunning landscapes.

With the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the landscape, I decided to treat myself to a drink at R5 Micro Bar. Though technically located in Akureyri, I decided to make the drive. I wanted to experience the local nightlife. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a wide selection of Icelandic craft beers on tap. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, offering recommendations based on my preferences. I settled on a local brew, savoring the complex flavors as I chatted with fellow travelers. R5 Micro Bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially on weekends when locals and tourists come together to enjoy the nightlife. The bar also showcases local art on its walls, adding to the charm of the place. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the charm of R5 Micro Bar in Akureyri, where local brews meet vibrant nightlife in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Dinner was at Eldey Restaurant. The restaurant highlights local Icelandic ingredients and traditional flavors. The Arctic charr is from Húsavík and the lamb and beef are from North Iceland and Eyjafjörður. All the fresh vegetables and fruits are from nearby farms in Hveravellir, grown in geothermally heated greenhouses and Vallarnes which grows organic products. I chose the beef tenderloin. It was served with hay smoked potatoes, roasted artichoke, asparagus, and red wine sauce. It was the perfect conclusion to a day filled with exploration and discovery. As I savored each bite, I reflected on the beauty and tranquility of Mývatn, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience its wonders.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Eldey Restaurant in Mývatn, where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable dining adventure.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself back at my campsite, nestled amidst the serene landscape of Mývatn. The midnight sun cast a golden glow across the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. I sat outside my tent, sipping on a cup of herbal tea, and reflecting on the day's adventures. I realized that Mývatn is more than just a destination; it's an experience that touches the soul. It's a place where you can connect with nature, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel excited for what tomorrow would bring. The itinerary includes a visit to the Mývatn Research Station and Kalfastrond. I am looking forward to more exploration and discovery in this magical corner of Iceland.