Exploring the Volcanic Wonders of Iceland's Myvatn Region

Day 6: Discovering the Heart of Myvatn: Volcanic Craters, Local Brews, and Culinary Delights

Explore the wonders of Myvatn: Skútustaðir's pseudocraters, local beer at Kaffi Sel, and delicious dining experiences await in Iceland.

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A Day of Discovery in the Myvatn Region




Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of the Myvatn region, a place where volcanic activity and serene landscapes coexist in perfect harmony. From exploring unique geological formations to savoring local flavors, it was a day filled with unforgettable experiences. I was particularly excited to see the Skútustaðir pseudocraters, something I'd read about but couldn't quite visualize. Jean-Pierre, ever the patient travel companion, was equally intrigued, and we both looked forward to what the day would bring.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Skútustaðir, where unique geological formations meet serene wetlands in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Skútustaðir, where unique geological formations meet serene wetlands in Iceland's stunning landscapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort. The cozy atmosphere and the view of the cows in the adjacent barn added a unique touch to our meal. I couldn't resist trying their homemade cheese, which was absolutely delicious. Jean-Pierre, of course, opted for the skyr, a traditional Icelandic yogurt. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the wonders of Myvatn. It was nice to start the day with a farm-to-table experience, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable travel.


Our first stop was Skútustaðir, a place renowned for its pseudocraters. These aren't your typical volcanic craters; they were formed by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over the wetlands around 2,300 years ago. The result is a landscape dotted with fascinating formations that resemble true craters but aren't connected to a magma chamber. We spent a couple of hours walking around the area, marveling at the unique geological phenomenon and enjoying the panoramic views of Lake Myvatn. The well-maintained walking paths made it easy to explore, and we even spotted a few birdwatchers hoping to catch a glimpse of the local waterfowl. I couldn't help but think about the immense power of nature and the incredible processes that shaped this landscape.


The beauty of Myvatn lies not just in its landscapes, but in the stories etched into its volcanic rocks.



Next, we ventured to The Fly Lands, an area known for its unique biodiversity. Despite the rather unappealing name, the area is stunning, with diverse flora and fauna thriving in the volcanic landscape. Thankfully, the flies weren't too bothersome today, perhaps due to the gentle breeze. We took a leisurely stroll, soaking in the serene atmosphere and appreciating the delicate balance of nature. It was a reminder that even in seemingly barren landscapes, life finds a way to flourish. Jean-Pierre, with his keen eye for detail, pointed out various plant species, sharing his knowledge of botany. I, on the other hand, was more interested in capturing the scenic views with my camera.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of The Fly Lands, a premier tourist attraction near Lake Mývatn in Iceland.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of The Fly Lands, a premier tourist attraction near Lake Mývatn in Iceland.

Our visit to the Mývatn Research Station was particularly enlightening. This station plays a crucial role in monitoring and studying the unique ecosystem of Lake Myvatn. While we couldn't go inside, we learned about the ongoing research projects and the efforts to conserve this precious environment. It was inspiring to see dedicated scientists working to understand and protect the natural wonders of Myvatn. The station has been around for 50 years now, and its work is essential for understanding the long-term changes in the area.


Explore the unique ecosystems and geological wonders at Mývatn Research Station, a key hub for scientific research in Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.
Explore the unique ecosystems and geological wonders at Mývatn Research Station, a key hub for scientific research in Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

By lunchtime, we were both quite hungry, so we headed to Daddi's Pizza. This cozy little diner offered a welcome respite from our explorations. We opted for a large pizza with vegan cheese, which was surprisingly delicious. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and the view of the volcanic crater from the outside deck was a definite plus. Daddi's Pizza seems to be a popular spot, and I can understand why. It's a simple, satisfying meal in a stunning location.


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

In the afternoon, we decided to explore the local culture with a visit to Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery. Kaffi Sel is a charming café and souvenir shop that also houses the Mývatn öl brewery. We sampled some of their unique beers, brewed on-site, and enjoyed the cozy atmosphere. I particularly enjoyed the light pale ale, while Jean-Pierre preferred the dark lager. The brewery uses local ingredients to create unique flavors that reflect the natural surroundings. It was a delightful experience, and we even picked up a few souvenirs to take back home.


Experience the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi Sel and Mývatn Öl Brewery, where local brews and homemade delights meet stunning natural beauty.
Experience the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi Sel and Mývatn Öl Brewery, where local brews and homemade delights meet stunning natural beauty.

For dinner, we chose Eldey Restaurant, located in Hótel Laxá. This restaurant is known for its Icelandic cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients. The ambiance was elegant, and the service was impeccable. I ordered the Arctic char, which was cooked to perfection, while Jean-Pierre savored the lamb. We also tried some of their specialty cocktails, made with Icelandic liquors. Eldey Restaurant was a culinary highlight of our trip, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Myvatn region.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Eldey Restaurant in Mývatn, where local flavors meet breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable dining adventure.
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, we reflected on our adventures over a glass of wine. We talked about the amazing landscapes we had seen, the delicious food we had tasted, and the friendly people we had met. Myvatn had truly captured our hearts, and we were grateful for the opportunity to experience its unique charm.


Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kalfastrond and explore more of Mývatn. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing Kalfastrond, known for its lava formations and birdlife. We'll also be stopping by Visit Mývatn to gather more information about the area and plan our future adventures. For dinner, we're thinking of trying Mylla Restaurant, known for its traditional Icelandic dishes. And perhaps, we'll end the day with a drink at Vogafjós Farm Resort, reminiscing about our incredible journey through the Myvatn region.


It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel. Discovering new places, experiencing different cultures, and creating lasting memories with Jean-Pierre – it's what makes life so rich and fulfilling. And I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!


As I sit here, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what tomorrow holds. I'm also reminded of something my grandmother used to say:


Travel far, travel wide, but always remember to appreciate the small wonders along the way.



And that's exactly what we're doing here in Myvatn. From the pseudocraters of Skútustaðir to the local brews of Kaffi Sel, we're savoring every moment and appreciating the unique beauty of this incredible region. Good night from Iceland!


Go to day 5 Chasing Waterfalls and Geothermal Wonders: A Day of Icelandic Immersion
Go to day 7 Farewell, Myvatn: A Final Day of Icelandic Wonders
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Exploring the Volcanic Wonders of Iceland's Myvatn Region

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland's Myvatn Region, from volcanic craters to soothing geothermal baths, on a 7-day adventure with Jean-Pierre.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Mary Sullivan
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Translator
  • Country icon Country: France
  • Age icon Age: 33

Bonjour, world! I'm Mary, a freelance translator and travel enthusiast originally from the USA, now living in beautiful Lyon, France, with my husband, Jean-Pierre. I've always had a passion for languages and exploring new cultures. Through this blog, I share my travel experiences, tips for budget-friendly adventures, and insights into culturally immersive travel. Join me as I uncover hidden gems, savor delicious food, and connect with amazing people around the globe!

Interests:
  • Linguistics
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • Sustainable Living
  • Foreign Films
  • History
More about Mary Sullivan

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  • Skútustaðir

    Explore the breathtaking beauty of Skútustaðir, where unique geological formations meet serene wetlands in Iceland's stunning landscapes.

  • The Fly Lands

    Explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of The Fly Lands, a premier tourist attraction near Lake Mývatn in Iceland.

  • Mývatn Research Station

    Explore the unique ecosystems and geological wonders at Mývatn Research Station, a key hub for scientific research in Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

  • Vogafjós Farm Resort

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

  • Daddi's Pizza

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

  • Eldey Restaurant

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

  • Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery

    Experience the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi Sel and Mývatn Öl Brewery, where local brews and homemade delights meet stunning natural beauty.

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