Solo Adventure in Iceland's Myvatn Region

Finding Peace in Myvatn: Waterfalls, Woodlands, and Warmth

Today was a day of contrasts and quiet beauty. After the adventures of the past few days, I was ready for a slightly more relaxed pace, focusing on the natural wonders around Lake Myvatn. It’s amazing how quickly you can find serenity in this landscape, even amidst the reminders of powerful volcanic activity. I'm continually struck by how Iceland manages to be both dramatic and deeply calming at the same time.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaffi Borgir. It's a family-run café, and you can feel the warmth the moment you step inside. Managed by Freddi, Halla, and their family, the café offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. I opted for the unlimited soup and geyser bread, which was exactly what I needed to fuel up for the day. The Icelandic meat soup was delicious, and the coconut curry soup was equally satisfying. Fuelled up with the warm soup, I was ready to start my day.

First on the agenda was Selfoss, a waterfall that’s often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Dettifoss. I drove along Road Number 864, a gravel road that took me through some stunning scenery. The drive itself was an adventure, with the rugged landscape stretching out before me. Selfoss is part of the Diamond Circle tour, and it's easy to see why. When I arrived at Selfoss, I understood its unique charm. It's much wider than it is tall, stretching about 100 meters across, with the water cascading down in numerous smaller falls. The Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, fed by the Vatnajökull glacier, provides the water, and even in summer, the power was evident. I took a walk to get closer, and the mist was invigorating – a reminder of nature’s raw energy.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Selfoss Waterfall in Iceland, a natural wonder that captivates with its stunning views and serene surroundings.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand gestures, but in the quiet moments of observation and reflection.

Next, I headed to Hofdi, a park on a small promontory reaching into Lake Myvatn. It’s known as an oasis of greenery in this volcanic region. The park was originally called Buck Point, named after a man who, along with his wife, planted thousands of trees here in the early 20th century. Now, it’s a public space with picturesque paths leading through the trees and flowery clearings. I walked along the trails, enjoying the tranquility and the panoramic views of the lake. It was a perfect spot for bird watching, and I spent some time just sitting and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The park also offers views of the lava pillars of Kálfastrandarvogar, adding another layer of interest to the landscape.


Explore the serene beauty of Hofdi, a picturesque nature preserve in Iceland, filled with lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife perfect for nature lovers.

After a morning of exploring, I was ready for lunch. I chose Mylla Restaurant, known for its use of local ingredients. The restaurant itself is charming, with large windows offering panoramic views of Myvatn. I decided on the Arctic Char, which was cooked to perfection and served with a creative sauce that highlighted the fresh flavors. It was one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Iceland so far, and a perfect way to appreciate the local cuisine.


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

For dinner, I decided to try Gamli Bærinn, a cozy country tavern near Icelandair Hotel Myvatn. It's known for its pub-style meals and friendly atmosphere. I opted for the lamb stew, a traditional Icelandic dish that was hearty and comforting. The restaurant had a rustic charm, and the staff were welcoming, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of adventures.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Gamli Bærinn in Reykjahlíð – savor traditional dishes like lamb soup amidst stunning landscapes.

The highlight of the day, however, was the evening spent at the Mývatn Nature Baths. I’d heard so much about these baths as a more relaxed alternative to the Blue Lagoon, and they did not disappoint. The alkaline bathing waters were the perfect temperature, and soaking in them after a day of hiking was incredibly rejuvenating. The baths were spacious enough that even with other guests, it felt private and calm. I spent a couple of hours there, moving between the different temperature spots and enjoying the views of the surrounding landscape.


Discover the tranquility of Mývatn Nature Baths, where geothermal waters and stunning landscapes offer the ultimate relaxation experience in Iceland.

I even treated myself to a drink at the bar inside the baths. Kvika Kaffi is the café located at Myvatn Nature Baths, offering a variety of baked goods and soups, including vegan options. Sipping a local beer while surrounded by warm, mineral-rich water was the perfect way to end the day. As I floated in the warm waters, watching the sky slowly darken, I felt a deep sense of peace. It was a reminder of why I love solo travel – the freedom to explore at my own pace and fully immerse myself in the moment.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Sulfuric Smoker and The Fly Lands, continuing my exploration of the unique geothermal areas around Myvatn. I’m also hoping to stop by Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery for a taste of local brews. Each day here brings new discoveries and a deeper appreciation for this incredible landscape. The midnight sun continues to be a constant companion, casting a magical light over everything I see. As I head back to my campsite, I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring.

This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the power of nature to heal and inspire. It’s a privilege to experience such raw beauty, and I’m grateful for every moment.

I am especially glad that I decided to come alone, even though Daniel would have loved to see this. Sometimes you have to take a leap and do the things that scare you, and solo travel was one of those things. I can now truly say that I am not afraid to do anything on my own, and hopefully I can use this new found confidence in my every day life back in London.

I will continue to update you all on my progress, and I hope that you are enjoying reading about my travels!

Safe travels!