Region
North Iceland
480 km from Reykjavik
Reykjahlid — Gateway to Lake Myvatn's Volcanic Wonders
The main village on the shores of Lake Myvatn, surrounded by lava fields, steaming vents, and some of North Iceland's most extraordinary landscapes.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~300
North Iceland • Lake Myvatn
Reykjahlid is a small village on the northeastern shore of Lake Myvatn, one of Iceland's most geologically active and ecologically diverse areas. The village serves as the main service hub for the Myvatn region, offering accommodation, dining, and a base for exploring the surrounding volcanic landscapes. Within a short drive, visitors can soak in the Myvatn Nature Baths, wander through the eerie lava pillars of Dimmuborgir, peer into the bubbling mud pots of Hverir, and hike around the Krafla volcanic crater. The area's combination of fire and water, barren lava fields and lush birdlife, makes it one of Iceland's most compelling destinations.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Population and geographic data based on Statistics Iceland and local tourism resources.
Sources to check
Population
~300
Main village at Lake Myvatn
Known for
Myvatn & Volcanoes
Geothermal areas and lava formations
Top Attractions near Reykjahlid
Myvatn Nature Baths
Geothermal lagoon with milky-blue mineral water set against a stunning volcanic backdrop, often called the Blue Lagoon of the north.
Dimmuborgir Lava Formations
A sprawling field of dramatic lava pillars, arches, and caves formed by an ancient collapsed lava lake, with well-marked walking trails.
Hverir (Namafjall) Geothermal Area
A vivid, otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and sulphur-stained earth at the foot of Namafjall ridge.
Krafla Volcano & Viti Crater
An active volcanic system featuring the turquoise Viti explosion crater and the steaming Leirhnjukur lava field from the 1975-1984 eruptions.
Grjotagja Cave
A small lava cave with a thermal spring inside, once used for bathing and made famous by the TV series Game of Thrones.
Skutustadagigar Pseudocraters
Unusual crater-like formations on the southern shore of Lake Myvatn, created by steam explosions when lava flowed over wetland, not by volcanic eruptions.
How to Get to Reykjahlid
From Reykjavik: Drive the Ring Road (Route 1) east or north for approximately 480 km, a journey of 5.5 to 6 hours. The northern route via Akureyri is more scenic and slightly shorter.
Flights: Fly from Reykjavik domestic airport to Akureyri (about 45 minutes), then drive 100 km east on Route 1 to Myvatn. SBA-Nordurleio runs a seasonal bus between Akureyri and Myvatn.
Best Time to Visit Reykjahlid
Summer (Jun–Aug): The peak season for birdwatching, midnight sun, and access to all hiking trails. Be prepared for midges near the lake — bring a head net. All services and tours operate at full capacity.
Winter (Nov–Mar): The Myvatn area is one of Iceland's top northern lights destinations thanks to dark skies and low light pollution. The Nature Baths and geothermal areas are accessible year-round, though some roads may require extra caution.
Planning help
Reykjahlid FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.