Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s northern Highlands, Lake Myvatn is one of the country’s most spectacular natural destinations. Volcanic landscapes, pseudocraters, geothermal springs and northern lights in winter. It’s worth a night’s stay
The hotel offer remains modest, but a few establishments are well worth a visit. In this article, you’ll find: our tips on the best areas to choose where to sleep in Lake Myvatn, our list of the best hotels and accommodation.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Is it worth spending a night at Lake Myvatn?
Yes, we highly recommend planning at least one night here: visitors who are just passing through often regret not having taken the time to linger. In summer, there’s a lot to see, and just 1 day means frustrating choices. And in winter, it’s a great place to see the aurora.
Lake Myvatn is right in the middle of Route 1. Spending at least one night here gives you time to explore the lava fields of Dimmuborgir at sunset, bask in the Myvatn Nature Baths after a long day’s hiking, or watch the northern lights reflected in the calm waters of the lake (except in midsummer when the nights are too short).
The best accommodation on Lake Myvatn
These are mainly medium-sized hotels, guesthouses and farmhouses, all within easy reach of the region’s main natural attractions. We advise you to book several weeks in advance, as accommodation is scarce and fills up quickly.
Before we introduce you to the establishments we’ve selected, here are our top 3:
Hotel Fosshotel Myvatn
Best modern hotel with large panoramic windows
See photos, prices and availability.
Hotel Sel – Hotel Myvatn
Best hotel near the fascinating pseudocrateria formations
See photos, prices and availability.
Hotel Laxá
More secluded, seductive by its intimate atmosphere and secluded position close to the river. Ideal for watching the northern lights.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to sleep on Lake Myvatn: best areas
Map and distances
To start with, here’s a map of Lake Myvatn.
The area is not large, for example between Hverir and Skutustadagigar, it’s less than a 25-minute drive!
So there’s no more strategic place to visit.
Sleeping in Reykjahlíd and on the north coast
Reykjahlíd is the main village on the northeastern shore of Lake Myvatn. This is where the services are concentrated: mini-market, gas station, a few restaurants and most of the accommodation.
Sleeping on the East Coast
The eastern shore of the lake offers a quieter, less crowded setting than the Reykjahlíð area. There are few accommodations here, but they’re right on the lake! This area is particularly suited to travelers looking for peace and quiet and a chance to immerse themselves in lake life.
Sleeping on the South Coast
The southern shore of the lake is dominated by the Skutustadagir pseudocraters, one of the most photographed sites in the region. To stay here is to have these unique geological formations as your immediate neighbors. Hotel Sel – Hotel Myvatn is the benchmark establishment in this area, ideally positioned for a visit to the pseudocraters at dawn.
Sleeping on local farms
A 30-minute to 1-hour drive around the lake, several farms offer quality accommodation in a wild and authentic setting. It’s the ideal option for travelers wishing to get away from the busiest tourist circuits and enjoy a fully-fledged Icelandic experience, as close to nature as possible. These farms are also a good base from which to explore other sites in the region, such as the Goðafoss waterfalls to the west or the fjords to the northeast.
RENTING A CAR IN Iceland
Discover the best offers on Discovercars, our preferred platform!
On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
1. Hotel Fosshotel Myvatn (our next choice)
Why stay there?
Hotel Fosshotel Myvatn is the most modern address on the shores of the lake. Its contemporary architecture contrasts with the surrounding volcanic landscape, while its large windows offer direct views of the lake and surrounding geological formations.
You’ll appreciate the care taken to integrate the establishment into its exceptional natural surroundings. The interior design is pure Scandinavian, with natural materials and hues reminiscent of the colors of the Icelandic moors.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: North shore, Reykjahlíd area
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, on-site restaurant
- Family rooms: extra bed available
- Features: large panoramic windows, contemporary design, lake view
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
RENTING A CAR IN Iceland
Discover the best offers on Discovercars, our preferred platform!
On Route 1, no 4WD required, off Route 1, it depends on your plans.
2. Hotel Sel – Hotel Myvatn (where we went in winter)
Why stay there?
Just a stone’s throw from the Skutustadagir pseudocraters on the southern shore of the lake, Hotel Sel – Hotel Myvatn boasts a location that few other establishments can boast. These exceptional geological formations, created by the interaction of lava and groundwater, are within walking distance of the hotel. Since we love them, it’s a big advantage for us.
The interior design is simple and functional, in typical Icelandic style. We found the welcome warm and we liked the atmosphere. If you’re looking to wake up to one of Iceland’s most unique landscapes, stay here: you won’t be disappointed.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: South shore, Skutustadagir (south shore of the lake)
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: yes, on-site restaurant
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: sauna, billiards
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. Hotel Myvatn – Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Why stay there?
The Berjaya Hotel (formerly Icelandair) is a safe bet for those looking for a less isolated stay. Conveniently located in Reykjahlíd, it provides access to the village’s few stores.
This classic hotel boasts large panoramic windows with views of the water and the surrounding volcanic landscape. The decor is classic and comfortable.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Reykjahlíd
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: yes, on-site restaurant
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: board games, Jacuzzi
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
OUR GUIDES TO PLAN YOUR Dream trip
4. Hotel Laxá
Why stay there?
Hotel Laxá occupies a secluded position away from the lake. This gives it a unique advantage in winter: the absence of light pollution makes it particularly suitable for observing the northern lights. What’s more, its proximity to the Laxá River, renowned for its fly-fishing, also makes it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
The interior design features a cosy, intimate atmosphere, ideal for relaxing after the day’s explorations.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: a little further south
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: table tennis,
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
5. Dimmuborgir Guesthouse (where we stayed in summer)
Why stay there?
Dimmuborgir Guesthouse takes its name from the famous lava field nearby, whose basalt columns seem to have stepped straight out of a Nordic fairytale. The guesthouse offers a simple, welcoming setting in the Icelandic tradition of rural hospitality.
The decor is functional, in light tones that reflect the spirit of northern accommodations. We loved its lava-surrounded, lakeside location with distant views of the pseudo-craters. Almost in the water, but we’ll avoid it because the water is cold!
Practical information
- Neighborhood: northeast shore of the lake
- Price range: guesthouse to mid-range
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: yes, and even cottages for large families
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
6. Hlíd Bed and Breakfast
Why stay there?
Hlíð Bed and Breakfast offers a human-scale accommodation experience, in the tradition of Icelandic hospitality. It’s a family-run establishment whose simple, warm decor creates a convivial atmosphere. The rooms are functional and well-maintained, ideal for one or two nights in the lake region.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Côte Nord
- Price range: mid-range
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: no
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
7. Vogafjós Farm Resort (for a unique experience)
Why stay there?
Vogafjós Farm Resort is a working dairy farm, whose restaurant serves fresh produce directly from the farm. Among the specialties not to be missed, homemade skyr and fresh cheese made on site are true Icelandic gastronomic curiosities.
The rooms and restaurant are decorated with a blend of natural materials and untreated wood, in an authentically Nordic spirit. The establishment is positioned on the eastern shore of the lake, with beautiful water views from the various common areas. What’s more, you’ll be amazed at how well integrated the accommodation and farm are!
Practical information
- Neighborhood: East coast of Lake Myvatn
- Price range: farm-resort, mid-range
- Restaurant: yes, farm restaurant serving home-made dairy products
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: working dairy farm, restaurant with local produce, lake views
- Parking: on-site parking available
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
VISIT Myvatn
- Attractions around Lake Myvatn
- Where to sleep: hotels and accommodation
- Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days
- How to get there
- Hverfjall
- Hverir
- Dimmuborgir
Other options and cheap hotels in Lake Myvatn
In this section, you’ll find a few accommodations we’d also like to mention.
Other accommodation on Lake Myvatn
- Birkilauf – See prices, photos and availability
- Elda Guesthouse – See prices, photos and availability
- Guesthouse Stöng and Cottages a little further on – See prices, photos and availability
Private homes and homestays on Lake Myvatn
The Lake Myvatn region also offers a number of private home rentals, ideal for families or groups looking for more space and autonomy. These accommodations are generally available on private rental platforms and offer an immersion in Icelandic daily life.
PLAN YOUR SUMMER TRIP TO iceland
- Best of
What to do in Iceland
The most beautiful waterfalls
The most beautiful black sand beaches
Volcanic craters to climb
Lava caves to visit
Best excursions from Reykjavik
- Practical advice
Summer travel tips
How to rent a car in Iceland
Driving tips
Where to stay in Iceland
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
What to do in Reykjavik
Best attractions in the Golden Circle
South Coast attractions
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Silver Circle
Lake Myvatn attractions
