7 Best Lakes in Iceland: A Guide to Glacier Lagoons and Volcanic Wonders

Iceland Lakes are shaped by the island’s powerful mix of fire and ice, creating some of the most surreal water landscapes in the world. From glacier-fed lagoons dotted with floating icebergs to volcanic craters filled with electric-blue water, each lake showcases a different chapter of Iceland’s geological story. This guide brings you the most iconic and hidden Icelandic lakes, helping you understand what makes them special and why they’re must-visit highlights on any itinerary.

Whether you’re after dramatic photography spots, peaceful nature escapes, or a deeper look into Iceland’s volcanic origins, these lakes offer some of the country’s most unforgettable experiences. Dive into the glacier lagoons, volcanic wonders, and serene freshwater basins that define Iceland’s wilderness.

Read more: Iceland travel guide

Top Lakes in Iceland

Some lakes are so fundamental to the Icelandic experience that they have become destinations in their own right. These are the places that command your attention and reward you with sights found nowhere else on Earth.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

This is the most famous lake in Iceland, and for good reason. Jökulsárlón is not a static pool but a slow-motion procession of giants. Icebergs, some the size of small buildings, break from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift silently toward the ocean.

The sound here is part of the experience. You will hear the distant groan of the glacier, the sharp crack of ice splitting, and the gentle lapping of water against frozen monoliths. Walk across the road to the “Diamond Beach,” where smaller ice chunks wash up on the black sand, glittering like crystals.

Visiting the shore is completely free. For a closer look, boat tours are available, taking you weaving between the majestic blue and white ice formations.

Kerið Crater

Located along the famous Golden Circle route, Kerið is a geological marvel. This is a volcanic crater lake, and its appearance is stunningly dramatic. The caldera is formed of deep red volcanic rock, which contrasts sharply with the opaque, milky blue water that fills its basin.

A path allows you to walk the entire rim of the crater for breathtaking views, or you can descend the steps to the water’s edge. Because Kerið is on private land, there is a small entrance fee of about 5 USD, or approximately 415 INR, which helps with the site’s preservation.

Major Iceland Lakes Rich in Nature & History

Beyond the most famous sights lie the great lakes that anchor Iceland’s major regions. These vast bodies of water are hubs for history, geology, and wildlife.

Þingvallavatn

This is not just a lake; it is the heart of the Icelandic nation. Þingvallavatn is the largest natural lake in Iceland, but its true significance is historical and geological. It sits within Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is where the Alþingi, the world’s first parliament, was established in 930 AD. The lake itself fills a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. You can literally see the continental divide.

For the adventurous, the Silfra fissure here offers a unique chance to snorkel or dive in crystal clear glacial water, floating between two continents.

Mývatn

In North Iceland, Mývatn is the centre of a volatile and beautiful geothermal region. Its name translates to “Midge Lake,” and in summer, you will understand why. But these harmless midges are a vital food source for the incredible birdlife, making this one of Europe’s premier birdwatching destinations.

The entire area is a showcase of volcanic activity. You can explore the strange lava formations of Dimmuborgir, hike the Hverfjall crater rim, and see the bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles of the Námaskarð geothermal area nearby.

Remote & Mythical Iceland Lakes Worth the Journey

For those willing to venture further, Iceland’s highlands and remote fjords protect lakes of profound, quiet beauty. These are the places you may have all to yourself.

Lagarfljót

Located in East Iceland, this long, narrow lake is steeped in folklore. It is said to be the home of the Lagarfljótsormurinn, Iceland’s version of the Loch Ness Monster, with sightings recorded since the 14th century.

Monster or not, the lake is a place of serene beauty. It is surrounded by the Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest, one of the largest forests in Iceland, offering a rare and peaceful hiking experience.

Öskjuvatn and Viti

Getting to these lakes requires a journey deep into the remote central Highlands. Öskjuvatn is a massive caldera lake formed during a powerful eruption in 1875. It is one of the deepest lakes in the country, and its sheer scale is humbling.

Beside it is Viti, a smaller, geothermal crater lake. Its name means “Hell,” but its appearance is heavenly. The water is a striking, warm, milky blue, and it is sometimes possible to bathe in its geothermally heated waters, a truly surreal experience in the middle of a volcanic desert.

Langisjór

Hidden in the western Highlands, Langisjór is a long, narrow, and breathtakingly beautiful lake. Its name means “Long Sea,” and it stretches for 20 kilometres, flanked by high, moss-covered mountains.

This is a place for hikers and those seeking true wilderness. The views from the nearby mountain Sveinstindur are considered some of the best in Iceland, offering a panorama of the lake, the Vatnajökull glacier, and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Conclusion – Discover the Magic of Iceland’s Lakes

The lakes of Iceland are as varied as the land itself. They are glacial and volcanic, steeped in history and myth, silent and still, or dynamic and ever changing. From the icy parade of Jökulsárlón to the historic depths of Þingvallavatn, each one offers more than just a photograph. They offer a connection to the raw, creative, and powerful forces that continue to shape this incredible island.

When planning your journey, look beyond the waterfalls and glaciers and seek out the water that lies still. You will find the true, quiet magic of Iceland reflected on its surface.

Ready to see the icebergs drift across Jökulsárlón or walk the continental divide at Þingvellir? Explore our customisable Iceland tour packages and start planning your journey to the land of fire and ice. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most famous lake in Iceland? 

Jökulsárlón, the glacier lagoon, is arguably the most famous and photographed lake in Iceland. It is renowned for its large icebergs that break off a glacier and float out to sea. It is often confused with the Blue Lagoon, which is a popular man-made geothermal spa.

Can you swim in the lakes in Iceland? 

Most natural lakes in Iceland are glacier-fed or snow-melted, making them far too cold for swimming (often 2°C to 4°C). The main exception is diving or snorkelling in the Silfra fissure in Þingvallavatn, which requires a special drysuit. Some smaller volcanic crater lakes, like Viti, can be geothermally warm enough for a brief dip.

What is the largest natural lake in Iceland? 

Þingvallavatn (Thingvallavatn) is the largest natural lake in Iceland. While Þórisvatn is technically larger in surface area, it is a reservoir that was heavily modified by a hydroelectric power plant.

Do you have to pay to visit the lakes in Iceland? 

Most lakes and natural attractions in Iceland are free to visit, including accessing the shores of Jökulsárlón and Mývatn, or entering Þingvellir National Park. A few, like Kerið Crater, are on private land and charge a small entrance fee (about 5 USD) for maintenance and access.

Which lakes are on the Golden Circle? 

Kerið Crater is a popular stop on the Golden Circle route. The route also takes you directly through Þingvellir National Park, which is located on the shores of Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake.