Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s stunning landscape, Myvatn is a place of otherworldly beauty that beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. On a recent family road trip, we had the immense joy of embarking on this journey, and the most heartwarming part was having my 85-year-old mother-in-law join us in rekindling her love for this remarkable place. Myvatn, with its breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders, provided us with a memorable adventure filled with awe and appreciation.
Location:
Myvatn, located in the North-Eastern part of Iceland, is a geological wonderland. The name “Myvatn” translates to “Midge Lake,” but it is so much more than that. It is a region that boasts a diverse array of geological formations, hot springs, volcanic craters, and abundant wildlife. The area spans around 37 square kilometers, offering a compact yet captivating experience for all who visit.
Landscape:
The landscape of Myvatn is a true testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland. The lake itself, Myvatn, is surrounded by striking lava formations and boasts a multitude of small islands, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Its serene waters reflect the surrounding landscape, creating picturesque views that are nothing short of stunning.
Natural Wonders:
Hverir Geothermal Area. One of the first stops on our journey was the Hverir geothermal area, where we were greeted by a surreal, Mars-like landscape. Bubbling mud pots, hissing steam vents, and vibrant red and orange mineral deposits combine to create a truly unique experience.
Dimmuborgir Lava Fields. These eerie, contorted lava fields are often referred to as “The Dark Castles.” Strolling through the labyrinth of twisted lava formations is like wandering through a magical fairy tale.
Skútustaðagígar Pseudo Craters. These stunning, explosion craters are surrounded by a tranquil walking path, making it a perfect spot for a family stroll. The pseudo craters are a reminder of Myvatn’s volcanic history.
Myvatn Nature Baths. The perfect way to relax after a day of exploration. These geothermal baths offer a soothing soak with a view of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal place to unwind and rejuvenate. It was just our luck that we arrived when it was still closed to the public, with the re-opening scheduled just four days later. What a bummer, isn’t it?
family stroll. The pseudo craters are a reminder of Myvatn’s volcanic history.
Wildlife:
The Myvatn region is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. A wide variety of bird species, including whooper swans, ducks, and the elusive Barrow’s goldeneye can be spotted at certain time of the year. My mother-in-law was particularly delighted by the birdwatching opportunities.
Our family road trip to Myvatn was a true testament to the beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders. The landscape, the geothermal marvels, the volcanic history, and the abundant wildlife combined to create an unforgettable experience that brought joy and wonder to us all. Exploring Myvatn is not just a journey through nature, it’s a journey through time and the heart of a remarkable country that continues to inspire and amaze all who visit. We will forever treasure the memories of our adventure in this Icelandic gem!