Lake Myvatn
Lake Mývatn is a shallow, geothermal lake surrounded by extraordinary volcanic formations, pseudocraters, lava pillars and geothermal areas — one of Iceland's r…
About
About Lake Myvatn
Lake Mývatn is a shallow, geothermal lake surrounded by extraordinary volcanic formations, pseudocraters, lava pillars and geothermal areas — one of Iceland's richest natural regions for both geology and birdlife.
Rich birdlife and unique volcanic formations
Background
History & Background
The lake was created approximately 2,300 years ago by a massive lava eruption that dammed the river valley. Its name means 'Midge Lake' — referring to the enormous swarms of midges that hatch from the lake each summer and provide the rich food source that makes the lake such a spectacular habitat for birds. The area sits over one of Iceland's most active volcanic zones and experienced a major eruption series in 1724–1729 called the 'Mývatn Fires'.
Lake Myvatn is one of the most interesting natural attractions in north-iceland of Iceland.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Lake Mývatn is Iceland's nature concentration camp — not the most poetic description, but nowhere else packs this much geological drama into such a small area. The shallow, 37 km² lake sits in the middle of Iceland's most active volcanic zone and is surrounded by: Dimmuborgir (twisted lava formations), Skútustaðagígar (pseudocrater fields), Hverir/Námaskarð (sulphur mud pools and fumaroles), the Krafla caldera, Grjótagjá cave with its hot spring, and the Mývatn Nature Baths. The lake itself is one of the most nutrient-rich in Iceland and hosts extraordinary bird life — more duck species than anywhere else in Europe. The name means 'Midge Lake' and the midges live up to their reputation, though they are not biting midges.
💡 Did You Know?
Name means 'Midge Lake' — bring insect repellent in summer
Local Legend
Legends of Lake Myvatn
Lake Myvatn has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
Experiences
Tours Near Lake Myvatn
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Mývatn
Mývatn: A lake of fire, ice, and mythical beings.
Reykjahlíð
Reykjahlíð is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Ljósvetninga saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Sandfell (óviss staðsetning)
Sandfell, a place of uncertain location, is a whispered tale of a hidden valley or perhaps a haunting presence in Iceland's wild landscapes.
Skútustaðir
Skútustaðir is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Reykdæla saga og Víga-Skútu", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Off-Peak Visit
Visit Lake Myvatn during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
✦ Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
✦ Changing Light
Lake Myvatn looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
📍 Location
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