Myvatn Vacations, Myvatn Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

Myvatn Vacation Guide

Lake Myvatn is located in the North East of Iceland, near to one of the country's most active volcanic areas, Krafla. A series of eruptions occurred in the late 70s and early 80s. It is the country's fourth largest natural lake with an area of 36.5 square kilometres, and 270m above sea level. The lake is relatively shallow about 5m deep at its deepest point, and is drained by the Laxa, one of Icelands best salmon fishing rivers.

The lake is home to a large collection of birdlife, and is particularly well known the variety of duck species, around 15 that breed here. The lake also has an abundance of lake char and fishing permits can be purchased locally.

It is easily reached by bus from Akuyeyri, and from other towns in the area. There are two small villages located on the lake shore, Reykjahlid and Skutustadir both have accommodation, campsites, a restaurant/cafe, petrol station, grocery store and information centre; everything the traveller needs! There are also facilities for car, horse and bike rental.

As well as walks in the local area, including to the impressive explosion crater Hverfjall, Lake Myvatn is a good base for organising bus and jeep tours into the Icelandic interior.

Popular attractions include; Mt. Hverfjall, Dimmuborgir lava formations and Krafla.

Be aware of the swarms of midges though, from which the lake gets its name, there are usually two main hatchings, and they are a real nuisance, especially along the river where they do bite.