Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Southern Mývatn
Eastern Mývatn may be the ultimate treasure trove of geological anomalies, but the south
side of the lake lures with its epic cache of pseudocraters, called
Skútustaðagígar
.
Pseudocraters were formed when molten lava flowed into the lake, triggering a series of
gas explosions. These dramatic dimples then came into being when trapped subsurface wa-
ter boiled and popped, forming small scoria cones and craters. The most accessible
pseudocrater swarm is located along a short path just across from Skútustaðir, which also
takes in the nearby pond,
Stakhólstjörn
, a haven for nesting waterfowl.
The hamlet of
Skútustaðir
is the only settlement around the lake apart from Reykjahlíð.
There's a cluster of tourist activity here, including a couple of hotels and a guesthouse.
Sleeping & Eating
Skútustaðir Farmhouse
GUESTHOUSE
( 464 4212;
www.skutustadir.com
;d with/without bathroom incl breakfast Ikr28,350/21,250; )
Sensible prices, friendly owners and spotless facilities can be found at this recommended,
expanding year-round option. Rooms in the homey farmhouse share bathroom, but there's
also an annexe of five en-suite rooms, plus a two-bedroom cottage, and a new block of
rooms and large guest kitchen.
Hótel Laxá
HOTEL
( 464 1900;
www.hotellaxa.is
;
s/d incl breakfast Ikr31,000/37,000; )
Bringing a breath of fresh air to Mývatn is this architecturally arresting, sustainably de-
signed hotel, which opened in mid-2014 about 2km east of Skútustaðir. There are 80 mod-
ern, simple rooms - pricey but comfy, with colour schemes complementing the surrounds.
The big windows and green sofas of the bar-lounge area invite contemplation; there's also
a stylish on-site restaurant (mains mains Ikr2500 to Ikr5500).
Sel-Hótel Mývatn
HOTEL
( 464 4164;
www.myvatn.is
;s/d incl breakfast Ikr28,100/33,800;
)
