6 Best Sights in Mývatn Region, North Iceland

Southwest of Hverfjall is this mesmerizing lava field known as Dimmuborgir, or \"Dark Castles,\" a labyrinth of tall and twisted formations where you can choose between short and longer signposted routes through the eerie yet enchanting landscape. The best views are available in September when the fiery reds and oranges of the dwarf birch trees contrast brilliantly with the jagged black peaks, crags, and crevices within. It's also fun to visit during the holiday season when the Icelandic Yule Lads take up residence in Dimmuborgir's many hiding spots.

Among the mysterious arches, gates, and caves of Dimmuborgir, the best known is the Kirkja (church), resembling a Gothic chapel (it's marked by a sign, lest you miss it). Don't wander off the paths, as Dimmuborgir is a highly fragile environment.

A surreal mix of still-smoldering lava fields, bubbling solfataras (volcanic craters emitting sulfurous gas), and steam vents can be seen at Leirhnjúkur, which sits on top of a vast magma chamber, with some parts as close as 3 km (2 miles) to the surface. From the car park, a circular footpath leads around the area with sensational views over the impressive volcanic landscapes. The terrain outside of the marked trail is hazardous, especially in the high-temperature regions, so don't be tempted to wander off. Good walking boots are essential.

On the south side of Lake Mývatn (easily accessible on foot), there is a cluster of beautifully formed pseudocraters situated close to Skútustaðir. Not real volcanic craters, they are the result of violent steam explosions created when hot lava flows into a body of water, a rare phenomenon outside of Iceland.

Its name means “hell” in Icelandic, but this crater lake with its brilliant turquoise pool looks more like heaven. The ancient belief that volcanoes were the gateways to the netherworld of eternal damnation inspired the name of this beauty and, confusingly, another crater lake of the same name in Askja. A path from the car park leads around the rim.