Lake Mývatn
Connected
Laxá river flows directly from Iceland's most famous lake
Laxardalur (Laxárdalur): Mývatn Lava Valley & Fishing
Laxárdalur
A shallow valley near Lake Mývatn where lava covers the valley floor and slopes are unusually green. The Laxá river meanders through, with a designated brown-trout fishing area. One of the quietest areas near Mývatn.
Region
Northeast Iceland
Best time: June to August
Quick Answer
Laxárdalur near Lake Mývatn has a lava-covered valley floor, unusually green slopes, and the Laxá river, a river with a distinct Laxárdalur brown-trout fishery.
In Laxárdalur, dark, ancient lava fields cover the valley floor while the slopes are an unusually vivid green. The Laxá river flows from Lake Mývatn through this landscape and holds some of the world's most sought-after brown trout fishing. The valley and surrounding Mývatn-Laxá area form a protected nature conservation area, one of Europe's most important wetland habitats.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Laxárdalur is accessible via Route 1 near Lake Mývatn. Fishing permits are required for the Laxá river and must be arranged in advance. The area is a protected nature reserve; stay on marked paths.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Laxá River
World-class
One of the world's finest brown trout fishing rivers
Lava Floor
Volcanic
Ancient lava fields covering the valley floor from Krafla eruptions
Best Season
Jun–Aug
Peak summer for greenest landscapes and fishing season
Geothermal
Hot Springs
Natural hot springs dot the area around this volcanically active lava valley
Birdlife
Diverse Species
The Mývatn area is one of Europe's top birding destinations with 28 duck species
Key Highlights
World-Class Trout Fishing
The Laxá is consistently rated among the world's best brown trout rivers
Lava & Green Contrast
Dark lava on the valley floor against vivid green slopes
Nature Conservation Area
Protected wetland habitat of European importance for nesting ducks
Lake Mývatn Connection
Directly connected to one of Iceland's most popular natural attractions
Peaceful Scenery
One of the quietest corners of the busy Mývatn region
Harlequin Ducks
Rare harlequin ducks breed along the river
How to Get There
- This page covers Northeast Iceland’s Laxárdalur in the Mývatn river system
- Do not use directions for Dalir or Búðardalur in West Iceland
- The fishery’s directions approach from Aðaldalur toward Laugar and Staðarbraut, road854
- For Rauðhólar lodge, get the full directions and access permission from the fishery
- The operator describes its fishing access as requiring permission and an SUV
Best Time to Visit
- Summer: Check the Laxárdalur brown-trout permit calendar for the actual fishing date
- September: Autumn colors in the valley and fewer visitors
- May: Spring lambing season on surrounding farms, migratory birds returning
- October-April: Valley accessible but quiet; short daylight makes it a brief stop
- Book the named Laxárdalur beat rather than a generic Laxá permit
Book the right Laxá stretch
The Laxá in Laxárdalur listing identifies brown trout, flies-only fishing and catch-and-release, with caught fish entered in the logbook. It places the Rauðhólar lodge in this northeastern valley. Similar river names should not be treated as interchangeable permits or destinations.
The listing currently gives a May 31–August 12 season, but elsewhere includes a generic shift note for after August 15. That internal mismatch is a reason to confirm your exact date with the seller. Do not use the old article’s mid-September end date as permission to fish.
Planning help
Laxardalur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What makes the Laxá river special for fishing?
For this valley, look for the specific Laxá in Laxárdalur brown-trout fishery. Do not substitute the separate Laxá in Aðaldalur salmon listing. Confirm the permitted stretch, access arrangements and terms with the seller.
How close is Laxárdalur to Lake Mývatn?
Laxárdalur is directly connected to Lake Mývatn: the Laxá river flows out of the lake and through the valley. The valley begins at the lake's western outlet, so it is one of the most accessible areas in the Mývatn region.
Why is there lava on the valley floor?
The lava covering Laxárdalur's floor originates from volcanic eruptions in the Mývatn area, part of the Krafla volcanic system. Despite the rough lava terrain, the valley slopes are unusually green with grass, moss, and low vegetation, a sharp contrast.
When is the best time to visit Laxárdalur?
June to August is the best time. The vegetation is green in high summer, and the contrast with the dark lava is at its strongest. Fishing dates are specific to the booked beat; check the current permit terms.
What wildlife can I see in Laxárdalur?
The Mývatn-Laxá area is one of Europe's most important habitats for nesting ducks, with 15 species breeding around the lake. The river and valley also support Arctic terns, golden plovers, and the rare harlequin duck. The area is a protected nature reserve.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.