Hike up Vindbelgjarfjall

Vindbelgjarfjall is a 529-meter mountain located in Lake Mývatn area, North Iceland, whose formation dates back to the Ice Age. It is part of Krafla volcanic system and is one of the most iconic mountains of the region.

The ascent up Vindbelgjarfjall is ideal for those wishing to have a bird-eye view over Lake Mývatn and its surroundings.  

The peak is accessible from a trailhead east of the sideway leading to the farm Vagnbrekka, on the southern side of Vindbelgjarfjall.

The first half of the trail takes 30 minutes and goes through flat lava fields where hot streams of lava have formed a variety of tunnels and caves. There are also vents on each side of the trail that are worth a stop.

It takes another 30 minutes to reach the summit as you follow the track which winds on the slope of hill. The trail is steep at times and rocks can be loose but it suits most beginner hikers and the view from the summit is breathtaking.

We went in May which was a bit in between seasons. On one side we could see the lake partly frozen and icebergs, while on the other side, Nature was coming back to life with rich wildlife and birdlife.  

On a clear day you will have an amazing view over the most mythical spots of Lake Mývatn, including Hverfjall crater, Dimmuborgir lava formations, Skútustaðir pseudo craters, Herðubreið tuya (1682m).