What makes the Laxá river special for fishing?

The Laxá í Aðaldal (Laxá in Aðaldalur) is widely regarded as one of the finest brown trout rivers in the world. It flows from Lake Mývatn through Laxárdalur, and the fishing is catch-and-release. The river's rich insect life, fed by the lake, supports an unusually large trout population.

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 season typically runs from mid-June to mid-September.

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.

Laxardalur (Laxárdalur): Mývatn Lava Valley & Fishing

Laxárdalur

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

A shallow valley near Lake Mývatn where lava covers the valley floor and slopes are unusually green. The Laxá river meanders through, with some of Iceland's best salmon and trout fishing. One of the quietest areas near Mývatn.

Region

Northeast Iceland

Best time: June to August

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 last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

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.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Lake Mývatn

Connected

Laxá river flows directly from Iceland's most famous lake

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

Located off Route 1 in the Dalir region of West Iceland, about 200 km north of Reykjavik
Turn onto Route 59 from Route 1 to enter the valley from the south
The nearest town with services is Búðardalur, about 15 km south of the valley entrance
All roads are paved or good gravel, accessible by standard car year-round
Combine with visits to Eiríksstaðir (reconstructed Viking longhouse) nearby

Best Time to Visit

June-August: Salmon fishing season on Laxá river, lush green valley, midnight sun
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
July: Peak fishing season; advance booking is essential for salmon permits

Planning help

Laxardalur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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