Mývatn
"Midge Lake"

"Mývatn is among the largest lakes in Iceland, 36,5 km², altitude 277 m, with a very indented shoreline, almost cut into two halves by a long peninsula and islands. Rather shallow, the average depth being 2,5 m, 4,5 m at its deepest, with lots of diatomite in the lakebed. Many islands, islets and pseudocraters, rich plant life in the lake and around it. A greater variety of birds, especially ducks, than anywhere else in Iceland, or even a large part of the world. The lake abounds in trout and there is very good trout fishing. Lots of midges and hence the name. The surrounding area is extremely beautiful with many interesting lavafields, geothermal heat in caves and canyons and steep mountains in the background."

"Höfði, a public park on Hafurshöfði point. Beautiful trees and garden and magnificent views."

"Dimmuborgir, ("Dark crags") a magnificent lava landscape with strange formations, columns, caves, arches, etc. It seems this was formed from a lava-lake, out of which molten lave flowed, causing much upheaval. One of the strangest spots is Kirkjan (The Church), an enormous arch. Some rich vegetation, including birch-bushes, now protected and spreading."

Mývatn in the winter:
February 2001

Mývatn in the summer:
Höfði by Mývatn in July 2001
Dimmuborgir by Mývatn in July 2001

Texts from The Visitor's Key to Iceland