Family Adventure in Iceland's Myvatn Region

Diving into Iceland's Fiery Heart

Today was all about experiencing the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's geothermal landscape and discovering hidden gems tucked away in the Myvatn region. I set out with Greta and Leila, ready to immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and even smells, of this volcanic wonderland. It's days like these that remind me why we left the familiar comforts of Berlin for a life of adventure and discovery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mylla Restaurant. Nestled within the Berjaya Iceland Hotels, the restaurant offered a diverse menu featuring premium ingredients sourced from local farms. I opted for the traditional Icelandic skyr with fresh berries, while Greta enjoyed the freshly baked bread with smoked salmon. Leila, of course, went straight for the pancakes. Fuelled up and ready, we set off to explore the wonders that awaited us.

Our first stop was Grjótagjá, a small lava cave famous for its geothermal hot spring. The drive there was stunning, with the landscape transforming into a canvas of volcanic rock formations and vibrant green moss. As we approached the cave, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement, knowing its history dates back to the early 18th century when it served as a home for the outlaw Jón Markússon.

Walking towards the cave, I could see the small opening in the earth, a portal to another world. It's incredible to think that this serene location was once a hideout for an outlaw, adding a layer of intrigue to its already fascinating geological history. The air was cool and crisp, a stark contrast to the geothermal heat lurking within the cave. Unfortunately, due to past vandalism and the unpredictable water temperatures, entering the cave is no longer permitted. However, peering inside, we could still admire the crystal-clear, blue water shimmering in the depths.

Of course, Grjótagjá is also famous for its appearance in Game of Thrones, where it served as the romantic backdrop for Jon Snow and Ygritte's love scene. Leila, being a bit young for the show, was more interested in the 'trolls' that might be hiding in the cave, a nod to the old Icelandic superstitions surrounding such places. I could almost picture Jon Snow and Ygritte in that hidden space, sharing a moment of intimacy amidst the rugged Icelandic landscape. While the waterfall that was added with CGI for the show isn't there in reality, Grjótagjá still holds an ethereal beauty.


Explore the enchanting geothermal cave of Grjótagjá, a hidden gem in Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that hold a secret, a hidden story waiting to be discovered.

Leaving Grjótagjá, we drove towards Námafjall Hverir Viewpoint, a geothermal area known for its bubbling mud pots and fumaroles. As we approached, the landscape transformed dramatically. The ground was barren, the air thick with the smell of sulfur, and steam billowed from every crevice. It felt like stepping onto another planet, a stark contrast to the lush green landscapes we'd seen earlier in our trip.

The ground was a kaleidoscope of colors – red, yellow, and green – painted by the minerals deposited by the geothermal activity. We carefully walked along the designated paths, watching as the mud pots gurgled and spat, a constant reminder of the powerful forces at work beneath our feet. Leila was fascinated (and slightly grossed out) by the bubbling mud, asking endless questions about where it came from and why it smelled so funny. Greta, ever the historian, pointed out that the Krafla volcanic system, which fuels this geothermal area, has erupted around 29 times since Iceland was settled.

The air was filled with the strong scent of sulfur, a smell that Greta, with her Berlin sensibilities, found rather overpowering. I, on the other hand, found it invigorating, a reminder of the raw, untamed power of nature. It's funny how our backgrounds shape our perceptions; growing up in Hawaii, surrounded by volcanic activity, I've always found a strange comfort in the smell of sulfur.


Experience the breathtaking geothermal activity at Námafjall Hverir Viewpoint, where Iceland's natural beauty and geological wonders come alive.

After exploring Námafjall Hverir, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn, a family-owned takeaway spot known for its delicious, crispy fish. We ordered a portion of fish and chips to share, and it was absolutely delicious. The fish was perfectly cooked, with a light, crispy breadcrumb coating, and the chips were golden and fluffy. The family sauce, with its hint of curry, was the perfect accompaniment. As we ate, we chatted with the friendly staff, learning about their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable fishing practices. It's these small, family-run businesses that truly capture the essence of Icelandic hospitality.


Experience the authentic taste of Iceland at Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn – where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Kvika Kaffi. This charming cafe, located near the Mývatn Nature Baths, is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee. We settled into a comfortable corner, sipping on lattes and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Leila, of course, opted for a hot chocolate with extra marshmallows. The cafe was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying a moment of respite after a day of exploring.


Experience the warmth and taste of Kvika Kaffi, a charming restaurant in Reykjahlíð, offering local dishes and delightful beverages amidst stunning landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Gamli Bærinn for dinner. This restaurant, whose name translates to 'Old Farm,' is known for its traditional Icelandic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant was warm and inviting, with rustic decor that evoked a sense of nostalgia. We started with the traditional Icelandic meat soup, a hearty and flavorful broth filled with tender lamb and root vegetables. For our main courses, Greta chose the fresh catch of the day, while I opted for the lamb chops, cooked to perfection and served with roasted potatoes and vegetables. Leila, surprisingly, decided to try the Moving Mountains burger, a vegan option that even she admitted was delicious. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome.


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

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Mývatn Nature Baths for a relaxing soak and explore the lava field Dimmuborgir. I'm particularly excited about the Nature Baths; after a day of exploring geothermal areas, a good soak sounds like the perfect way to unwind.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible landscape with my family. It's moments like these that make all the challenges of living abroad worthwhile. Iceland, with its raw beauty and untamed spirit, has captured our hearts, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It is worth noting that there were no events scheduled today in the Myvatn region. Akureyri, a town not too far away, had a few events that included a story time, and a salsa night.