Family Adventure in Iceland's Myvatn Region

Myvatn's Fiery Heart and Gentle Soul

Today in Myvatn, we experienced the duality of Iceland – the raw, untamed power of its geothermal heart and the serene, calming beauty of its lakeside landscapes. It was a day of contrasts, of fire and ice, of otherworldly sights and peaceful reflection. I felt like I was walking on another planet, and then, in the next moment, I was completely grounded by the simple beauty of nature.



The day began with a hearty breakfast at Eldey Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of local Icelandic ingredients set the perfect tone for our adventures. Greta opted for the traditional Skyr with berries, while Leila devoured a stack of pancakes. I went for the Arctic char, eager to taste the local flavors I'd read so much about. The food was phenomenal, and the service was impeccable, making it a delightful start to our day.


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

Fuelled and ready, our first stop was the Myvatn Geothermal Area. As we approached, the landscape transformed into something truly alien. Steam billowed from the earth, the air filled with the distinct scent of sulfur, and the ground bubbled with mud pots. It felt like stepping onto another planet. Leila was immediately captivated, pointing at the fumaroles and asking endless questions about the sleeping dragons beneath our feet. Greta, ever the historian, was fascinated by the geological processes at play, explaining the tectonic forces that shaped this dramatic landscape.


Experience the breathtaking geothermal wonders of Myvatn Geothermal Area, a must-visit natural attraction in Iceland showcasing unique landscapes and vibrant activity.

We explored the area, carefully navigating the marked paths, the ground a tapestry of ochre, red, and brown. The raw energy of the earth was palpable, a reminder of the powerful forces constantly shaping this island. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for nature's might. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly convey the scale and intensity of the experience.

The earth here breathes fire, yet whispers peace, a paradox that defines Iceland.

After immersing ourselves in the geothermal spectacle, we decided to find a spot for lunch. Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn seemed like the perfect choice for a quick and tasty meal. And it was! The cod was perfectly cooked, the batter light and crispy, and the fries were just right. Leila, a self-proclaimed fish and chips connoisseur, gave it her enthusiastic approval. With our bellies full and our spirits high, we were ready for the afternoon's adventure.


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

Our next destination was Hofdi, a peninsula on the shores of Lake Myvatn. In contrast to the geothermal area's intensity, Hofdi was an oasis of tranquility. We wandered through a forest of birch trees, their delicate leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. The air was fresh and clean, a welcome change from the sulfuric fumes.


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

The views from Hofdi were simply breathtaking. The lake stretched out before us, dotted with islands and surrounded by volcanic peaks. The water was calm and reflective, mirroring the sky above. It was a scene of perfect serenity. Leila, always the explorer, scampered along the shoreline, collecting pebbles and chasing birds. Greta and I sat on a bench, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoying the stunning panorama.



As we strolled through Hofdi, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. The contrast between the geothermal area and Hofdi was striking, yet both were integral to the unique character of Myvatn. It was a reminder that Iceland is a land of diverse landscapes, where fire and ice, chaos and calm, exist side by side.



Before dinner, we decided to explore the local Handicrafts Market. I was hoping to find a warm Icelandic sweater, a practical and stylish souvenir of our trip. The market was a treasure trove of local craftsmanship, with a wide array of woolen goods, jewelry, and artwork. We spent a happy hour browsing the stalls, admiring the intricate designs and chatting with the friendly artisans. Leila was particularly taken with a hand-knitted lopapeysa, a traditional Icelandic sweater, adorned with colorful patterns. She insisted on trying it on, and Greta couldn't resist buying it for her. I finally settled on a classic gray sweater, perfect for the Berlin winters.


Explore the Handicrafts Market in Reykjahlíð for authentic Icelandic sweaters and unique artisanal crafts, perfect for memorable souvenirs.

For dinner, we opted for Daddi's Pizza. After a long day of exploring, pizza seemed like the perfect comfort food. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the aroma of baking pizza filled the air. We ordered a large pizza with a variety of toppings, including Icelandic lamb and locally sourced vegetables. It was delicious, and Leila devoured her slices with gusto.


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

As we enjoyed our meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of adventure, exploration, and relaxation. We had witnessed the raw power of Iceland's geothermal landscape, experienced the tranquility of its lakeside scenery, and immersed ourselves in its local culture. It was a day that would stay with us long after we left Myvatn.



Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kalfastrond and Skútastaðir, hoping to discover more hidden gems in this beautiful region. I'm particularly excited about Skútastaðir, known for its pseudocraters and rich birdlife. Greta is eager to explore Kalfastrond, a charming village with stunning views of the lake. And Leila, of course, is simply excited about the prospect of another day of adventure.



As I write this, the sun is setting over Lake Myvatn, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The air is still and peaceful, and the only sound is the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this magical place with my family. Iceland, you have captured our hearts.



I am also grateful that I remembered to pack sunscreen today, learning from my mistake on day one. However, I realized when I was charging my camera and phone that I forgot the travel adapter. Luckily, the hotel had one I could borrow.



It's also worth noting that while we were enjoying our day, the Lake Myvatn Marathon is upcoming at the end of the month. It's amazing to see so many events happening in this region, catering to diverse interests.



Before I close, I want to share an interesting tidbit I learned about Höfði, though we didn't visit the one in Reykjavik today. Apparently, it's famous for hosting the meeting between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev, a pivotal moment in ending the Cold War. It's fascinating how a single building can hold so much history.



Now, as the day winds down, I'm looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. Good night from Myvatn!