Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

The Dark Castles of Lake Myvatn

Dimmuborgir, meaning "Dark Castles" or "Dark Fortresses" in Icelandic, is one of the most striking geological formations in North Iceland. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Myvatn, this sprawling lava field is filled with towering rock pillars, twisted arches, and hollow chambers that resemble the ruins of an ancient fortress. The formations rise up to 20 metres above the surrounding terrain, creating an otherworldly landscape unlike anything else in the country.

How Dimmuborgir Was Formed

The lava field was created approximately 2,300 years ago during a volcanic eruption in the region. When molten lava flowed over a pre-existing lake, the water beneath began to boil violently. Steam forced its way upward through the lava, cooling and solidifying columns of rock as it escaped. As the lava lake eventually drained, it left behind the dramatic pillars, bridges, and caverns that define the landscape today. The result is a formation that geologists describe as a collapsed lava tube system, but which to the untrained eye looks far more like the crumbling walls and towers of a vast stone citadel.

Kirkjan -- The Lava Church

The most famous feature within Dimmuborgir is Kirkjan, or "The Church." This remarkable lava cave has a high, dome-shaped ceiling that bears an uncanny resemblance to Gothic cathedral architecture. The chamber is open at both ends, allowing natural light to filter through and illuminate the interior. Kirkjan is reached via the Kirkjuhringur trail, the longest marked route in the area at 2.4 kilometres, which takes roughly one hour to complete. Standing inside, it is easy to understand why generations of Icelanders attributed the place to supernatural builders.

Walking Trails

Dimmuborgir offers several well-marked trails suited to different timeframes and abilities. The Small Circle covers 550 metres and can be walked in about 15 minutes, offering a quick introduction to the formations. The Big Circle extends to 850 metres and takes around 20 minutes. The Mellond Circle is 1.2 kilometres and provides roughly 30 minutes of walking through varied terrain. For those wanting the full experience, the Kirkjuhringur trail at 2.4 kilometres passes through the heart of the lava field and leads to the Kirkjan cave. All trails begin and end at the same car park, and none require special equipment beyond sturdy walking shoes.

Folklore and the Yule Lads

Dimmuborgir holds a special place in Icelandic Christmas tradition. According to legend, the labyrinthine lava formations are home to Gryla, a fearsome troll, and her 13 sons known as the Jolasveinarnir, or Yule Lads. In the 13 nights leading up to Christmas, one Yule Lad descends from Dimmuborgir each evening to visit the towns and farms below. Each has his own mischievous habit -- Stekkjastaur (Sheep-Cote Clod) harasses sheep, Gluggagaegir (Window Peeper) spies through windows, and Kertasnikir (Candle Stealer) follows children to steal their candles. The folklore adds a layer of cultural richness to an already extraordinary landscape, and Christmas-themed events are sometimes held at the site during the festive season.

Practical Information

Dimmuborgir is located just off Route 848, the road that circles Lake Myvatn, and is well signposted from the village of Reykjahlid. There is a car park at the entrance with toilet facilities and Kaffi Borgir, a small cafe serving coffee, soups, and cakes. The site is open year-round and free to enter. Summer visits offer long daylight hours and mild temperatures ideal for hiking, while winter transforms the lava field into a frost-covered landscape with the possibility of northern lights overhead. The Lake Myvatn area is rich with other attractions including Grjotagja cave, Hverfjall crater, Namafjall geothermal area, and Myvatn Nature Baths, making Dimmuborgir an essential stop on any tour of the region.