Mývatn

Mývatn is a lake near Akureyri in North Iceland. The lake was formed during a massive eruption 2300 years ago. Today the area is best known for the huge numbers of birds that visit in the summer, and for the weird and inspiring volcanic features that surround the lake. The name "Mývatn" is derived from the vast numbers of midges that gather at the lake and are sure to leave an impression on all who visit!

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Cities

There are two small towns on the shores of Mývatn:

• Reykjahlíð GPS 65.642, -16.909 is a town of about 300 on the northeastern shore of the lake.
• Skútustaðir GPS 65.5674, -17.0372 is on the southern shore of the lake. It is smaller than Reykjahlíð but offers most basic services that visitors will need.

Mývatn Halal Explorer

History

Mývatn was formed after a massive eruption 2300 years ago, and it remains geothermally active today. The lake is located along the western side of the volcanic zone which bisects Iceland and is an extension of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The features of the landscape are quite new in geologic times, with most of the land shaped by activity occurring since the last Ice Age.

The inhabitants of the surrounding area, called Mývatnssveit, are approx. 450 but many more live there in the summer to serve tourists. Lately there has been a movement among the local entrepreneurs to increase tourism in the winter so now some hotels are open during the winter and tours are offered, including go-carting on ice, ice-bowling, and jeep rides over snowy terrain.

Landscape

During the last Ice Age much of the Mývatn was covered by glaciers. Eruptions below the ice led to the formation of some of the area's mountains. Major volcanic events since that time have occurred 3800 years ago, 2500 years ago, 2300 years ago, and during a series of eruptions lasting from 1724 until 1729. Eruptions of the Krafla volcano from 1975 until 1984 produced fresh lava flows in the area. This volcanic activity is seen today in the relatively shallow lake and the many pseudocraters that surround it, and the fantastic lava formations and craters in the area.

Flora and fauna

Due to the number of wetlands surrounding the lake there are an exceptional number of waterbirds, and the area is recognized as one of the premier bird-watching sites in the world. Over 115 species of birds have been sighted at the lake, including thirteen species of ducks that nest in the lake area. Most nesting birds arrive in late April or early May. The most abundant species is the tufted duck, followed by the greater scaup and wigeon. Other commonly sighted species include the Barrow's goldeneye, red-breasted merganser, gadwall, mallard, common scoter, long-tailed duck and teal. Harlequin ducks and the Barrow's goldeneye breed nowhere else in Europe. Other birds likely to be seen at the lake include the tufted (Slavonian) grebe, red-necked phalarope, common loon (great northern diver), red-throated diver and whooper swan.

One of the reasons why so many birds congregate in the lake area is due to the massive number of aquatic insects - visitors are advised to bring mosquito netting with them to avoid the often-bloodthirsty hordes of black flies that can be found here.

Climate & Weather

In general the area's weather is less severe than what is found elsewhere in Iceland. The average temperature in January is -0.2°C, and in July the average reaches 10.2°C. The area is also one of the sunniest in Iceland, and annual precipitation is only 0.4m.

Travel to Mývatn

The easiest and most flexible way to visit the lake is by automobile. There are also numerous buses from Akureyri, Husavik or Egilsstadir. For those looking for more of an adventure, visiting by bicycle entails a 90-km pedal from Akureyri.

Get Around

GPS 65.653|-16.905

There is not much of a public transport system. If you came to Myvatn by bus, walking, biking and hitchhiking are you best options but beware as it can get quite chilly in the winter. The road around the lake is roughly 36 kilometers, so biking is an excellent option. There are some local trips available at Skútustaðir, Vogar and Reykjahlíð (ask store clerks or information centers for details).

What to See

Námafjall_Iceland_009 - Bubbling mud pot near Námaskarð Namafjall_-_Schwefelflecken_4 - Námaskarð sulfur deposit

There are a vast number of sights for visitors around the lake. The following listing includes major points along the Ring Road, listed in clockwise order starting from Reykjahlíð, followed by those sites that are located off of the Ring Road.

• Hverfjall (Hverfell) Crater 65.6053, -16.8745 - HverfellInnerCrater - This 2500-year-old, nearly symmetrical tephra crater rises 463 m high and is 1040 m across. It is accessible via a trail that runs from Reykjahlíð to Dimmuborgir.Access to the bottom of the crater is not permitted in order to prevent erosion - please obey signs and remain on the marked paths.

• Dimmuborgir 65.5916, -16.9128 - Dimmuborgir-stígur - Dimmuborgir, which means "dark forts" in Icelandic, is an area of volcanic arches, pillars, caves and bridges along the east shore. The black lava formations are the result of a 2000-year-old lava flow, and numerous trails lead through the area. Cracks in the ground here often hide deep and dangerous crevices; stay on the marked trails.

• Lofthellir, Lava Cave 65.55945, -16.74535 - Lofthellir Lava Cave is a 45-min drive away from Lake Myvatn. It is about 370-m long and boasts the greatest natural ice sculptures known in an Icelandic lava cave. You must book a day tour as this is located on private land and off limits to the public.

• Skútustaðagígar 65.5712, -17.0334 North_Iceland_Skútustaðagígar - The shores along the south side of the lake are home to many pseudocraters, formed during volcanic eruptions when lava flowed over wetlands, eventually resulting in steam eruptions and forming these medium-sized craters. There are a series of trails in the town of Skútustaðir that lead through these craters and provide further information about the geology behind these formations.

• Vindbelgjarfjall 65.6240507, -17.0690702 =2005-05-28_12_08_34_Iceland-Skútustaðir - This 529-m tall peak is accessible from a trailhead along the road, just south of the mountain. The trail runs along generally flat land to the back of the mountain, after which it takes a decidedly vertical turn and leads straight to the summit. The trail is tiring and footing (on loose rock) can be tough - plan about 45 minutes to an hour for the ascent. Views from the top are tremendous, making this a very worthwhile trek.

• Neslönd 65.6298, -16.9857 - The area north of Vindbelgjarfjall is a protected nesting area, and access during nesting season is forbidden; do not hike or drive off road to avoid disturbing the many birds present.

• Námaskarð 65.6413600, -16.8080533 Námaskarð_(3795454377) - A low mountain range about 6 kilometers from Reykjahlið on the way to Egillsstaðir. Next to it - mainly at the bottom of the hill on the further side from Reykjahlið are interesting hot mud pools, solfataras, fumaroles, etc.

• Krafla 65.738, -16.8281 Krafla_usgs - The site of a major volcanic eruption known as the Krafla Fires of 1975-1984. The various overlying lavafields give an interesting striped appearance to the area on a larger scale. Some areas of lavafields that are still steaming, and there are solfataras and various lava formations. Nearby (about 500 m) is a large explosion crater called Víti (which is the same name as the similar explosion crater at Askja). It is a fairly large site and worth about half a day to walk around. To find it, set out from Reykjahlið, in the direction of Egillsstaðir and turn left at the signed turn after about 8 km. It is a further 7 kilometers, a little way beyond the geothermal power station. Viti Krafla - Víti crater and lake at Krafla

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Mývatn

Myvatn Nature Baths by Bruce McAdam - Mývatn Nature Baths

• Mývatn Nature Baths | 65.63066, -16.84895 ☎ +354-464-4411 +354-464-4422 Opening Hours: Summertime: 09:00 – 00:00, wintertime: 12:00 – 22:00 3800 kr Myvatn_Nature_Baths_by_Bruce_McAdam - Something of a "Blue Lagoon lite" and the Mývatn Nature Baths was opened in June 2004 and offers mineral-rich geothermal waters drawn from depths of up to 2500 meters. Facilities include a reception area and cafeteria, changing rooms and showers, three natural steam baths accommodating up to 50 bathers at a time, and a 5000-m² geothermal bathing swimmingpool maintained at a constant temperature of 38-40ºC.

• Grjótagjá Fissure - 65.62633, -16.88303 located apx. 5 min to the right of the primary street on the way Egilsstadir - Grjotagja_cave_Iceland_1.JPG - Free Take a bath at the Grjótagjá fissure. The water is extremely hot (completely at own risk). The roof has become unstable and visitors are now warned not to enter.

• Sigurgeir's Birdmuseum - Fuglasafn Sigurgeirs - Neslönd 65.62883, -16.99499Just off the primary street northwest of the lake ☎ +354-464-4477 Opening Hours: 11:00 - 19:00 A collection of birds collected by a local, Sigurgeir Stefánsson, who died in an accident on the lake in 1999. The museum has been build to honor his memory. It houses 300 birds of 180 species as well as some eggs. From the dining hall there is a nice view of the lake.

• Observe northern lights: the area round lake Mývatn is a great place for observing aurorae between September and March. Local hotels (e.g., Sel - Hótel Mývatn in Skútustaðir) and tour operators offer guided tours and aurora hunts. A very special experience is observing aurora while having a soak in a geothermal bath.
• Play golf at Reykjahlið's 9-hole course.
• In the summer the local residents in Reykjahlið often play football in the evening and usually welcome more people. Alcohol is often involved.
• Aerial tour over the lake: by Myflug at Reykjahlið airport.
• Take the hour long walk along the pseudo-craters. It offers a nice view of Mývatn as well as the surrounding mountains.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Mývatn

Gas, groceries, souvenirs and other supplies can be purchased in the towns of Reykjahlíð (next to the N1 station) and Skútustaðir (at Sel - Hótel Mývatn).

Halal Food

The Mývatn area is known for hverabrauð, a delicious, one-of-a-kind molasses bread that is slow-baked for 24 hours underground by natural geothermal heat. This bread is sold around the lake area. In addition and the local smoked trout, which is famous in Iceland for its taste, can be purchased in most of the shops. Restaurants and grocery stores can be found in the two main towns.

• Cafe Borgir Dimmuborgir 65.591733 , -16.913434 Opening Hours: Closed late December - Mar A cafe and a restaurant with indoor and outdoor places and a very scenic view over Mývatn area.

Bars, cafes, and other options can be found in the area's two main towns.

• Vogafjós Cowshed Café - Reykjahlíð - Just south of town, this unique cafe is in the same building as a working dairy farm - a glass wall separates visitors from the cows.Arrive around 16:00 if you're interested is watching the daily milking.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Mývatn

Mývatn - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Mývatn, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Mývatn. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Mývatn and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Mývatn. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Mývatn. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inMývatn: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Mývatn.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Mývatn: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Mývatn, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Mývatn.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Mývatn, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Mývatn, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Mývatn and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Mývatn, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Mývatn, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Mývatn without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Mývatn is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Mývatn.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Mývatn is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Mývatn, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Mývatn Media: info@ehalal.io

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Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are numerous accommodation options around Lake Mývatn, most of which can be found in the towns of Reykjahlíð and Skútustaðir. They range from good quality hotels to small accommodations.

• Dimmuborgir Guesthouse - Geiteyjarströnd 1 ☎ +354 464 4210 Dimmuborgir Guesthouse is on the eastern shore of Mývatn. It offers cozy cottages and rooms all year round with a great view over the lake.

• Hlíð Travel Service - Hlíð ☎ +354 464 4103 and +354 899 6203 Hlíð Travel Service offers nine double rooms, each equipped with bathrooms. There is also a dormitory building, and a campsite, all in the same complex.

• Stöng Guesthouse - Gistiheimilið Stöng ☎ +354 464 4252 A few kilometers south of Lake Mývatn, this guesthouse has houses and is well situated for sight-seeing trips in the surrounding area.

• Vogafjós Guesthouse - Vogar 1 ☎ +354 464 4303 Vogafjós offers cozy accommodation in newly built cottages. Breakfast is eaten at a special cowshed café, where you can watch the cows getting milked and eat local food.

• Vogahraun Guesthouse - Vogahraun ☎ +354 464 4399 Vogahraun Guesthouse is on the northern shore of Lake Mývatn. It offers Bed & Breakfast, sleeping bag accommodation and a camping site.

• Eldá Guesthouse - Helluhraun 15 ☎ +354 464 4220
• Helluhraun 13 Guesthouse - Helluhraun 13 ☎ +354 464 4132 Helluhraun 13 guesthouse offers three double rooms with breakfast in a very personal atmosphere.

• Hotel Reykjahlíð - Reykjahlíð ☎ +354 464 4142 +354 464 4336 | lastedit= A family-run hotel just outside of town that includes a restaurant and tour operations. All rooms include private bath, breakfast, and free internet access.

- Icelandair Hotel Myvatn | Reykjahlíð ☎ +354 444 4000high season/low season: Twin/Queen room from 23,800/13,600 kr; single from 22,000/10,000 kr . This four-star hotel has 41 rooms with private bath. The hotel also offers a restaurant, conference facilities, and includes buffet breakfast.

• KEA Hotel Gígur | Skútustaðir ☎ +354 460 2050 +354 464 4279 This hotel has 37 rooms with private baths, a restaurant and a café. The northern view over the lake from their common area is incredible during the midnight sun.

• Sel - Hotel Mývatn - Skútustaðir ☎ +354-464-4164 Single room from 14,500 kr, double from 19,500 kr . Offers 35 rooms, each of which includes private bath, television, and internet access. The restaurant is also highly regarded.

• Skútustaðir Farmhouse - Skútustaðir ☎ +354 464 4212 +354 464 4322 This farmhouse has eleven rooms available.

Camping Places

• Hlíð Camp Site - ☎ +354 464 4103 and +354 899 6203 Uphill from the church. Camping, dormitory accommodation and private cabins.

Stay Safe

Like most places in Iceland visitors should always watch the weather and exercise caution around thermal areas. Weather changes quickly, and the onset of fog, high wind, or a severe storm can turn the best day into a survival situation. Similarly and thermal pools are often boiling hot and should be approached with caution, and the areas around thermal features are often unstable so all warnings and barriers should be observed.

Crime is not an issue in the Mývatn area, but sensible precautions should still be taken.

Travel Next

• Bus trips from Akureyri and Egilsstaðir go by Myvatn. There are also bus trips to/from Húsavík from Reykjahlíð.

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