Exploring the Volcanic Wonders of Iceland's Myvatn Region

Echoes of Westeros and Whispers of the Earth

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true immersion into the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's Mývatn region. Forget the manicured landscapes of France; this was nature in its most primal form. Jean-Pierre and I ventured into a world sculpted by fire and ice, a landscape that felt both ancient and perpetually in the making. I even managed to only forget my sunglasses, a small victory considering my track record!



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kvika Kaffi. Situated near the Mývatn Nature Baths, this charming cafe offered a delightful start to our explorations. I opted for their smoked trout sandwich. Jean-Pierre chose the goulash soup, declaring it a champion in taste, portion size, and price. Fuelled and ready, we set off to explore the volcanic heart of Mývatn. What awaited us was beyond anything I could have imagined.



Our first stop was Dimmuborgir, the 'Dark Castles'. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a labyrinth of jagged lava formations, towering rock pillars, and hidden caves. It felt like stepping onto the set of a fantasy film, and in a way, I wasn't far off. Dimmuborgir is said to connect earth with the infernal regions.


Discover the stunning lava fields of Dimmuborgir in Iceland, a unique hiking area filled with breathtaking landscapes and rich folklore.


   

In Icelandic folklore, lava caves are allegedly the homes of the nation's brutal and vile trolls.

We wandered through the maze-like paths, marveling at the sheer scale and strangeness of the formations. Formed over 2,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, Dimmuborgir is a place where molten lava once flowed over a lake, the boiling water creating these incredible structures. I could almost hear the echoes of ancient sagas and the whispers of mythical creatures as we explored the 'dark castles'. It’s easy to see why they call it that; the place is reminiscent of a collapsed citadel. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the geological processes at play, while I let my imagination run wild with tales of trolls and hidden realms.


Next on our itinerary was Grjotagja, a small lava cave famous for its thermal spring. For any Game of Thrones fans out there, this is where Jon Snow and Ygritte shared *that* scene. Driving along Road 1 Eastbound from Reykjahlíð, we turned onto gravel road 860, where we found Grjótagjá. As we approached, the landscape was surreal. The cave itself is nestled amidst the rugged terrain, a small opening in the earth leading to a hidden world.


Explore Grjotagja, an enchanting fissure in Iceland with stunning hot springs and breathtaking volcanic landscapes perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Descending into the cave, I was immediately struck by the crystal-clear blue water of the hot spring. The temperature, however, is far too hot for bathing, a result of volcanic activity in the 1970s. Despite not being able to take a dip, the beauty of the cave was captivating. The light filtering through the opening created an ethereal glow, illuminating the intricate rock formations and the mesmerizing blue depths. I could almost picture Jon and Ygritte finding solace in this hidden oasis. Though the water is too hot to bathe in now, it was easy to imagine a time when it was a popular bathing spot.


For lunch, we stopped at Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn. After the otherworldly landscapes, we craved something simple and comforting. And what’s more comforting than perfectly cooked cod and golden fries ? I appreciated that the fish was lightly breaded and not overly fried. Jean-Pierre and I shared a portion, enjoying the crispy batter and the fresh, flaky fish. It was the perfect fuel for our next adventure.


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

Our final stop of the day was Hverir, a geothermal area that felt like another planet. As we drove closer, the air filled with the pungent smell of sulphur, a telltale sign of the intense geothermal activity beneath the surface. Stepping out of the car, we were greeted by a landscape of steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and vibrant mineral deposits.


Discover the mesmerizing geothermal wonders of Hverir, where bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles create a unique Icelandic landscape.

The ground was a kaleidoscope of colors – ochre, red, yellow, and white – a stark contrast to the clear blue skies above. Steam billowed from the fumaroles, creating an eerie atmosphere as if the earth was alive and breathing. We walked along the designated paths, careful not to stray onto the unstable ground. The heat radiating from the earth was intense, a reminder of the powerful forces at play beneath our feet.


   

Exploring Hverir will give you a sense of being on another planet.

It was truly a sensory overload – the smell of sulphur, the sight of bubbling mud, the sound of hissing steam, and the feel of the earth's raw energy. Hverir is part of the Krafla volcanic system, known for its intense geothermal activity. I found myself reflecting on the sheer power of nature, its ability to create such beauty and such destruction.


For dinner, we decided on Daddi's Pizza. After a day of exploring, we wanted something casual and comforting. Plus, I had read they had vegan options. We ordered a large pizza and enjoyed it while admiring the view of the volcanic crater. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed. It was the perfect way to end our day of volcanic adventures.


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

As the day wound down, we briefly considered a nightcap at Jaja Ding Dong Húsavík. It is inspired by the Eurovision Song Contest. However, given the distance and our exhaustion, we decided to postpone it for another day. Perhaps we’ll visit tomorrow after visiting Sigurgeir's Bird Museum.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sigurgeir's Bird Museum, Hofdi, and Stóragjá. I'm particularly excited about the bird museum, as I've always been fascinated by ornithology. Jean-Pierre is looking forward to Hofdi, eager to explore the unique rock formations along the lake. And Stóragjá, another geothermal cave, promises more hidden wonders.


Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – the chance to witness the Earth's wonders, to immerse myself in different cultures, and to share these experiences with Jean-Pierre. Even the little mishaps, like forgetting my sunglasses, add to the adventure. And who knows, maybe tomorrow I’ll remember my portable phone charger!