The scenic driving loop around the Mývatn area is one of the most convenient
ways to explore the region’s volcanic landscapes, lakeside viewpoints, and
natural attractions. This circular route connects major sites including lava
fields, geothermal areas, craters, caves, and birdwatching locations. The road
is easy to follow and offers open views throughout the journey.
Travelers enjoy the flexibility of stopping at multiple points of interest along the
lake. The loop is ideal for photography, sightseeing, and experiencing the
diversity of the region’s geological features in a single trip
- 🌋 Hike the rim of Hverfjall for a panoramic view of the frozen volcanic basin 🏔️
- 📸 Photograph the ethereal blue water of Grjótagjá Cave (no bathing allowed!) 🕯️
- 👹 Hunt for the “Yule Lads” in the frozen lava arches of Dimmuborgir ❄️
- 🌫️ Witness the raw power of the earth at Hverir, with hissing fumaroles and mud pots 🧪
- 🦆 Spot winter waterfowl at the ice-free Laxá River or the Bird Museum 🔭
- 🚙 4×4 mandatory; the 36km loop is mostly paved but can have heavy snow drifts ❄️
- ⛽ Refuel in Reykjahlíð; it is the last major service station before heading east ⛽
- 🅿️ Most attractions have designated parking; fees are often managed via the EasyPark app 📱
- 🛑 Check umferdin.is daily—January weather is highly unpredictable 🗺️
- 🕒 Plan your entire loop to be completed between 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM for daylight 🌅
- ⛸️ Wear ice cleats or spikes; the paths at Dimmuborgir and Hverfjall are pure ice ⛸️
- 🧥 Dress in three layers: wool base, insulating mid, and windproof outer shell 🌬️
- 🍫 Carry extra food and water; many smaller guesthouses and cafes close in January 🥪
- 📍 10:00 AM – Depart Akureyri; enjoy the sunrise over the snowy peaks 🚗
- 🌋 11:30 AM – Walk the Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters on the south shore 🥾
- 🏰 12:45 PM – Explore the Dimmuborgir lava maze while the sun is at its peak 📸
- 🌫️ 02:00 PM – Visit the steaming Hverir mud pots and Grjótagjá Cave 🧪
- 🍲 03:30 PM – Late lunch/early dinner at Vogafjós Farm Resort (Cowshed Cafe) 🐄
- 🌌 05:00 PM – Park in a dark spot near the lake to wait for the Northern Lights 🌠
