Exploring Iceland's Myvatn Region: A Journey with Friends

Exploring the Heart of Icelandic Culture and Nature

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the raw power of Iceland's natural wonders with the serene beauty of its historical roots. It's amazing how much history and nature can intertwine in a single day, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for this incredible island. From thundering waterfalls to ancient turf houses, every moment felt like stepping into a living postcard.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort. What a unique experience! The Vogafjós Farm Resort was more than just a place to eat; it was an immersion into Icelandic farm life. Imagine enjoying a traditional Icelandic breakfast in a café that's part of a working cowshed. Priya would have loved this place. As someone who is a registered nurse, she would have been very impressed by the cleanliness of the farm. The fresh milk was a highlight, and watching the cows being milked at 7:30 AM was a fascinating start to the day. It’s not every day you get to taste milk straight from the source! I even managed to snap a few photos, hoping to capture the essence of this unique experience. Vogafjós truly embodies the farm-to-table concept, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the land and its people.


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

After breakfast, we headed to Selfoss, a stunning waterfall in North Iceland. Selfoss is part of the Dettifoss waterfall system on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape unfolding before us in all its rugged glory. Selfoss may be overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Dettifoss, but it has a unique charm. The waterfall isn't very tall, only about 11 meters high, but it stretches wide, around 100 meters, creating a breathtaking curtain of water. The east side offers a full view, shaped like a horseshoe, with water cascading along a long edge. The mist in the air made everything feel magical, and I spent a good hour just taking it all in. The Jökulsárgljúfur canyon added to the dramatic scenery. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, hoping to do justice to the sheer beauty of the falls. It was a bit challenging to keep the lens dry, but totally worth it.


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 in the quiet corners of the world, far from the beaten path.

Next on our itinerary was Grenjaðarstaður - the Old Turfhouse, a historical settlement that offered a glimpse into Iceland's past. Grenjaðarstaður is one of Iceland's largest turf houses, located about 30 km south of Húsavík. Built in 1865, this turf house was inhabited until 1949. The house is insulated with lava rocks and paneled with driftwood, showcasing the ingenuity of traditional Icelandic architecture. Walking through the rooms, I could almost feel the presence of the families who once lived there. Aarav would have been fascinated by this place. He loves stories about history, and this turf house felt like stepping right into one.


Explore Grenjaðarstaður in Húsavík – a historical museum showcasing traditional Icelandic turf houses and rich cultural heritage.

The folk museum, established in 1958, displays around 2000 artifacts, providing insight into the living conditions of past centuries. The Lutheran church, built in 1865, and the medieval rune-stone in the cemetery added to the historical ambiance. It was a humbling experience to walk through the old barn, now a museum shop, and imagine the lives of those who came before us. The attention to detail in preserving the house was remarkable. Grenjaðarstaður truly felt like a portal to another time, offering a profound connection to Iceland’s heritage.

For lunch, we stopped at Kvika Kaffi, located at the Myvatn Nature Baths. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a morning of exploration. Kvika Kaffi offers a variety of light meals, including soups, sandwiches, and the famous geyser bread with smoked arctic char. The geyser bread was a must-try, baked in geothermal steam for 24 hours. The cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating, with a view of the lagoon and Lake Myvatn. Sipping coffee and enjoying the scenery was a perfect interlude. The prices were reasonable, and the atmosphere was relaxed. I opted for the soup of the day with freshly baked bread, while the others tried the sandwiches. It was a simple yet satisfying meal, and the view made it all the more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Kvika Kaffi in Reykjahlíð, where comfort meets tradition in every bite.

Our final stop for the day was in Húsavík, at Jaja Ding Dong. This cozy bar gained fame from the Netflix movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga. Inspired by the film, the bar has a fun and lively atmosphere. They serve delicious cocktails and even have a small exhibition of costumes and props from the movie. I had to try one of their signature cocktails, and it was quite the experience. The bar was buzzing with energy, and everyone seemed to be in high spirits. It was a fun and quirky way to end the day, adding a touch of pop culture to our Icelandic adventure. The bar is inspired by the famous song from the Eurovision Song Contest, capturing the spirit of celebration and joy.


Discover the vibrant spirit of Iceland at Jaja Ding Dong Húsavík, where music and culture unite in a lively bar and event venue.

For dinner, we dined at Eldey Restaurant, located in Hotel Laxá. Eldey Restaurant highlights local Icelandic ingredients and traditional flavors. The Arctic char comes from Húsavík, and the lamb and beef are from North Iceland and Eyjafjörður. The fresh vegetables and fruits are from nearby farms in Hveravellir and Vallarnes. I opted for the lamb, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The ambiance was elegant, and the service was impeccable. It was a delightful culinary journey, showcasing the best of Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the uniqueness of the Mývatn region.


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 reflected on the incredible experiences we had. From the thundering waters of Selfoss to the historical depths of Grenjaðarstaður, every moment was a testament to the beauty and richness of Iceland. The unique dining experiences, from the farm-fresh breakfast to the gourmet dinner, added another layer to our adventure. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Stóragjá and Hverir, promising another day filled with natural wonders. I'm also looking forward to visiting Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery. Good night from the Myvatn Region!