10 Best Lakes In Iceland: Marvel At Beauty & Mythology!

Iceland as a destination will throw you lots of images related to glaciers, ice caves, geothermal baths and northern lights. Apart from these, Iceland’s natural beauty enriches itself with numerous lakes. You can see that most of them have a stunning backdrop like you’ve never seen before. This Nordic island and its enchanting lakes have lots to offer for your senses and the landscape photography portfolio. Here we got you the “10 Best Lakes in Iceland” that will brighten up your vacation with unforgettable memories.

10 Best Lakes In Iceland

Iceland’s water bodies are always known for their unique reflections and pleasant colours that blend with the natural aura of the volcanic fields and icy trails. Naturally, these lakes need to be on your bucket list. If you like fishing, photography or want to get an absolute dose of relaxation, note down these ten distinctive lakes in Iceland so that you don’t forget to see them on your vacay!

1. Thingvallavatn
2. Kerið
3. Mývatn
4. Thórisvatn
5. Jökulsárlón
6. Lagarfljót
7. Öskjuvatn
8. Selvallavatn
9. Hraunsvatn
10. Langisjór

1. Thingvallavatn

Thingvallavatn lake is the most legendary lake in Iceland. Keep it as a priority not just for its distinct geography but also for its historical eminence. The uncoveted beauty of this largest natural lake in Iceland comes from its presence amidst the tectonic valley and lava formation. Its historical significance comes from being a site of the first parliament, where the democratic election took place in the 10th century. Also, this is the first place where the people of Iceland declared independence from Denmark. Apart from being your perfect fishing spot, you can also witness geothermal activities here. You could go scuba diving in the Silfra Fissure beneath this lake.

2. Kerið

This impressive carter-lake is a must-visit while you are touring around the Golden Circle. This lake is the most attractive out of all the lakes you will see in Iceland. This almost-perfectly-round crater is filled with glistening turquoise water and surrounded by the lush green terrain. This lake is born out of the volcanic eruption that happened some 6000 years ago. The Kerið lake also has extraordinary acoustics because of the volcanic rocks surrounding it to form a wall. If you are lucky, you could encounter a musician performing in the lake. You need to pay an entrance fee of 400 ISK to visit this lake.

3. Mývatn

Mývatn lake, which translates to “Midge Lake”, is also formed 2300 years ago because of the volcanic activity in the northern part of Iceland. It is a significant lake close to an active volcano that you shouldn’t miss. Look around the lava pillars and craters surrounding this lake’s landscape. Being a wetland, it is also the best spot for birdwatching. If you are visiting between April and June, you can see different species of migratory birds.

4. Thórisvatn

Thórisvatn lake tops its purpose as a fishing zone. This tranquil lake in the highland is the second largest lake in Iceland before it became a part of the reservoir. You can see the dam at its southern corner. The milky water in this lake is in the purest form of all, as it is directly from the melted glacier. This lake and other nearby lakes in the reservoir are well known for a bounty of huge brown trout. You can also catch a lot more species of fish here while fishing.

5. Jökulsárlón

This world-renowned lake is a treasure of Iceland. Even from afar, Jökulsárlón makes you feel like you slipped into another planet because of the newly formed pieces of glaciers that scatter around the black soil of the lake like chiselled diamonds. Being on the southern coast of Iceland in Vatnajökull, it shimmers at it is the best during sunset. Now, you can understand why it is also called ‘The Diamond Beach’. Gather with other travellers like you to watch the icebergs of unpredictable sizes floating along the lagoons to reach the sea. The blue tone of this lagoon is very enchanting. Get the best experience out of this lake by taking a boat tour.

6. Lagarfljót

Lagarfljót is a lake that has so many peculiar things that make you visit. This third largest lake of Iceland present in the eastern part is admired for its serene and picturesque atmosphere. Not just that, there is also another reason which automatically intrigues you to visit this lake. Lagarfljót lake is also known as home to the legendary serpent Lagarfljótsormurinn. This mythical creature, just like its cousin Loch Ness, believes to be living under the lake since the 14th-century. Stay in the Egilsstaðir town and watch out if you could glance at this serpent.

7. Öskjuvatn

Öskjuvatn is a small yet deep lake formed on the caldera similar to Kerið lake. Being in the centre of Iceland, this lake has a more appealing appearance that will charm you with its milky yet translucent water. This lake is also known as Viti (or) Hell because of its quintessential presence. You can see geothermal activity happening here often which is also the reason for its unfamiliar smell. As Öskjuvatn is close to the Dyngjufjöll mountain range, it presents a mystic backdrop that creates a spotlight for your photographic pursuits.

8. Selvallavatn

Selvallavatn! A calm lake in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that is surrounded by mossy hills and a saintly atmosphere. This incredible lake and the cheerfully flowing waterfall comest together to revitalise your spirit. This lake’s formation had taken place 4000 years ago from a volcanic eruption. As it surrounds itself with a volcano, lava field, beaches, black sand, waterfalls and glaciers, this miniature of Iceland is colourful and vibrant than other lakes. 

9. Hraunsvatn

Hraunsvatn is one of the most scenic lakes close to the Öxnadalur valley. It is not only beautiful but also rumoured to have numerous mythical creatures beneath its surface. One prominent creature is Hrökkáll that looks like a monstrous eel. The rugged peaks and rock slides on the north and south-east is the reason for this lake formation. This lake also has adoration among the Icelandic people as it is home to their beloved poet Jonas Hallgrimsson. 

10. Langisjór

Langisjór is a lake with an artistic aura, surrounded by the vast wilderness, Tungnárfjöll, and Fögrufjöll mountains. This isolated lake, located in the roots of the Vatnajökull glacier, was found only in the 19th century. This hidden treasure is popular among hikers and mountaineers who remain awestruck by witnessing its beauty from the peak of Sveinstindur. There are numerous islands in this lake. Carry a rubber boat along with you so that you can sail to explore them.

Iceland’s natural beauty is a combo of mysterious landscapes that always feel like a jigsaw puzzle when you first visit. And these lakes are like the connectors that will fulfil your experience up to your expectations. Now that you know the best lakes in Iceland, it’s time for you to start booking for your Iceland vacation. Visit Pickyourtrail to select a suitable Iceland holiday package. If you don’t find a suitable package, you can customise an Iceland itinerary by yourself.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Reykjavik | 21 Places to See Northern Lights | Best Places to See Northern Lights in Iceland | Iceland’s Most Instagrammable Spots | Top 10 Icelandic Hot Springs | 10 Best Museums in Iceland | Ice Caves in Iceland | Travel to the Blue Lagoon | Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon | Elephant Rock Iceland | Explore Vatnajokull National Park