Solo Adventure in Iceland's Myvatn Region

Of Smoke and Steam: Myvatn's Fiery Heart

Today was a sensory explosion, a day where the raw, untamed heart of Iceland beat loudly in the form of steaming vents, bubbling mud, and the ever-present scent of sulfur. It was a day to explore the volcanic soul of Myvatn, a landscape so surreal it felt like stepping onto another planet. After a delicious breakfast, I set off to experience the Sulfuric Smoker and the Fly Lands, two of the area's most captivating attractions. And of course, no day is complete without indulging in the local culinary scene.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at Kvika Kaffi. It's conveniently located at the Myvatn Nature Baths, which I visited a few days ago. Even though I wasn’t planning on soaking in the geothermal waters today, I couldn't resist stopping by for a quick bite. Kvika Kaffi offered a variety of baked goods and soups, including vegan options. I went for the classic Icelandic meat soup, which was the perfect way to warm up before heading out into the cool morning air. What a great way to start the day!

Fueled and ready, my first stop was the Sulfuric Smoker. As I approached the Námafjall Geothermal Area, the landscape transformed into something otherworldly. The ground was a kaleidoscope of colors – vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds, all thanks to the sulfur deposits. The air was thick with the pungent smell of sulfur, a constant reminder of the powerful forces at play beneath the surface. It was like stepping into a science experiment, a place where the earth was constantly breathing and shifting. It was quite the contrast to the lush green landscapes I had seen earlier in the trip.

The Sulfuric Smoker itself was a sight to behold. Fumaroles hissed and steamed, releasing plumes of gas into the air. I wandered along the designated paths, careful to avoid the boiling mud pots that bubbled ominously nearby. The area was alive with the sounds of the earth – hissing, gurgling, and the low rumble of geothermal activity. It was a stark, almost alien landscape, and I found myself completely mesmerized. The sheer power of nature on display was both humbling and awe-inspiring.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique geothermal activity of the Sulfuric Smoker in Reykjahlíð, Iceland - a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Next on the agenda was the Fly Lands, a name that intrigued me from the start. Turns out, the name is quite literal! The area is known for its abundant birdlife, and as I walked along the picturesque paths, I was treated to a symphony of chirps and tweets. The Fly Lands offered a stark contrast to the barren landscape of the Sulfuric Smoker. Here, lush greenery thrived amidst the volcanic terrain, creating a haven for birds and other wildlife. I spent a good hour simply wandering, observing the different species of birds that call this place home. It was a welcome reminder of the resilience of life, even in the most challenging environments.


Discover The Fly Lands, a breathtaking tourist attraction near Lake Mývatn, showcasing unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes in Iceland.

After immersing myself in the geothermal wonders and avian delights of Myvatn, my stomach started to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. I headed to Vogafjós Farm Resort, a place I had heard so much about. The resort is located on the east coast of Lake Myvatn, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. But what makes Vogafjós truly unique is its restaurant, which is located right next to a cowshed! As I walked in, I could see the cows through a large glass window, munching on hay and generally going about their bovine business. It was definitely a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

I decided to try the local specialties, starting with the smoked trout. It was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the quality of the local ingredients. For my main course, I opted for the lamb shank, which was cooked to perfection and practically fell off the bone. The meat was tender and juicy, infused with the flavors of the Icelandic countryside. And of course, I couldn't resist trying the homemade Geysir rye bread, which is baked in an underground bakery using geothermal heat. It was dense, slightly sweet, and utterly delicious.


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

After such a satisfying lunch, I decided to indulge in a bit of local shopping. I made my way to Kaffi Sel and Mývatn Öl brewery, a charming café and brewery located in the nearby village of Skútustaðir. The café was bustling with activity, and I could see locals and tourists alike enjoying the cozy atmosphere and stunning views. Kaffi Sel is known for its sweet owners who provide excellent service. The lamb soup at Kaffi Sel is particularly outstanding, accompanied by unlimited refills. Despite the occasional crowding in the gift shop, the dining area provides a separated and enjoyable atmosphere with stunning views. I browsed the souvenir shop, picking up a few handcrafted items to take back home. But the real highlight was the brewery. Mývatn Öl is a family business that started brewing its own beer in 2022. They specialize in unique flavors that reflect the natural surroundings. I sampled a couple of their beers, each one distinct and refreshing. I ended up buying a few bottles to enjoy later, a perfect reminder of my time in Myvatn.


Experience the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi Sel and Mývatn Öl Brewery, where local brews and homemade delights meet stunning natural beauty.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself craving something comforting and familiar for dinner. I decided to head to Daddi's Pizza, a family-run pizzeria known for its delicious hand-tossed pizzas made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Daddi's Pizza in Myvatn is just over one mile from the Ring Road, making it an easy stop. The pizzeria had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the smell of baking dough filled the air. I ordered a classic pepperoni pizza, which was cooked to perfection with a crispy crust and generous toppings. It was exactly what I needed after a long day of exploring.


Experience the best pizza in Mývatn at Daddi's Pizza—where quality ingredients meet Icelandic hospitality.

Sitting there, savoring each slice, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the otherworldly landscapes of the Sulfuric Smoker to the farm-fresh flavors of Vogafjós and the comforting familiarity of Daddi's Pizza, it had been a day of contrasts and delights. Myvatn had truly captured my heart, and I knew I would carry its memories with me long after I left.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the area's natural beauty, including the Lake Mývatn panoramic point and Sigurgeir's Bird Museum. And of course, I'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine. Until then, goodnight from Myvatn!