Dimmuborgir

Dimmuborgir showing wild flowers
Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
Make your way around this strange world of bubbles and hollow castles formed millennia ago by lava beside a lake.

The lava fields of Dimmuborgir are known for their otherworldly shapes and formations. Since its volcanic caves resemble collapsed human ruins, the site was given the Icelandic name for “Dark Forts.” It is a unique structure in the world, as the only known site with this type of landmass.

Capture photos of twisted rock formations that rise from the ground like tall, mangled columns and chimneys. Hike through the intriguing terrain and imagine yourself on a distant planet.

A volcanic lava lake formed the bizarrely shaped terrain 2,300 years ago. A Norwegian black metal band is named after the site, which also plays a role in Nordic Christian folklore. Listen to legends suggesting a murderous troll inhabits the field.

The area has a number of hiking paths. Stroll along the relatively easy route to the rock formation known as “The Church,” and walk through its hollow interior. Try the more challenging White Path for excellent views of the lava rocks. Several tour operators visit the lava field in the afternoon. If you want to miss the crowds, go in the evening.

Watch your kids clamber over the rocks. Compare the various shapes to animals and buildings. Enjoy the excellent views of the surrounding region, including the large crater of the Hverfjall Volcano in the distance. It is a 1-hour hike east from the lava field. Climb to the peak to look into its crater and capture photos of Mývatn Lake.

Visit the guesthouse complex of cottages and rooms between the lake and the lava field. Savour a meal of fresh trout while viewing the fascinating surrounding terrain. Dine at the Dimmuborgir Café for bread baked in the geothermal vents.

Dimmuborgir is on the eastern shore of the vast lake of Mývatn. See nearby natural landmarks such as the Hverfjall Volcano and the hot springs of Hverarönd. Part of the road from the north of the lake is gravel, but it is suitable for a two-wheel drive. The café has a parking lot.

Plan a trip to see Dimmuborgir

ODDSSON Hotel
Tower Suites Reykjavik
Reykjavik Residence Hotel
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Dimmuborgir Guesthouse
Dimmuborgir Guesthouse
3 out of 5
Geiteyjarströnd 1, Myvatn, WATERFRONTBEACH
Dimmuborgir Guesthouse
Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
3.5 out of 5
Reynihlid, Myvatn, Northeast Region
Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Fosshotel Myvatn
Fosshotel Myvatn
3 out of 5
Grímsstaoir, Skutustaoahreppur, Myvatn
Fosshotel Myvatn
Vogafjós Guesthouse
Vogafjós Guesthouse
2 out of 5
Vogafjósi, Myvatn
Vogafjós Guesthouse
Vogahraun 4
Vogahraun 4
3 out of 5
Vogar, Myvatn
Vogahraun 4
Sel Hotel Mývatn
Sel Hotel Mývatn
3.5 out of 5
Skútustaðir 2C, Myvatn, Mývatn
Sel Hotel Mývatn
Vogar Travel Service
Vogar Travel Service
3 out of 5
Vogar, Myvatn
Vogar Travel Service
Birkilauf
Birkilauf
3 out of 5
Grjótagjárvegur, Myvatn, Northeast Region
Birkilauf
Eldá Guesthouse
Eldá Guesthouse
3 out of 5
Helluhraun 9, Myvatn
Eldá Guesthouse
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.