Lava Field
100 km²
Aðaldalshraun — one of Northeast Iceland's largest lava fields
Adaldalur (Aðaldalur): Main Valley of Northeast Iceland
Aðaldalur
Updated February 5, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
'Main Valley' — a broad lowland between the Skjálfandafljót river and Hvammsheiði moor. Includes the 100 km² Aðaldalshraun lava field with unusually dense vegetation of heather, birch, and oak. Connected to Lake Mývatn area.
Region
Northeast Iceland
Best time: June to September
Aðaldalur — the 'Main Valley' — is a broad, open lowland in Northeast Iceland, defined by the powerful Skjálfandafljót river to the west and the Hvammsheiði moor to the east. Its most remarkable feature is the Aðaldalshraun lava field, covering 100 km² with an unusually rich carpet of heather, birch, and even rare oak. This vegetation density on lava is exceptional in Iceland, creating a landscape that feels surprisingly lush for a volcanic terrain.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-05
Aðaldalur is accessible year-round via Route 1. The lava field terrain can be uneven — wear sturdy footwear when exploring off-road. The area is between Húsavík and Mývatn.
Sources to check
Vegetation
Unusually Dense
Heather, birch, and rare oak colonizing the lava field
Skjálfandafljót
Western Border
One of Iceland's most powerful glacial rivers
Best Season
Jun–Sep
Summer for lush vegetation and easy access
Birdlife
Waders & Geese
Wetlands attract pink-footed geese, snipe, and other migratory birds in summer
Nearby
Húsavík & Mývatn
Excellent base for whale watching in Húsavík and geothermal wonders at Mývatn
Key Highlights
Aðaldalshraun Lava Field
100 km² of ancient lava with uniquely dense vegetation cover
Rare Oak Growth
Unusual presence of oak trees in a landscape normally dominated by birch
Heather & Birch Woodland
Lush heather moors and birch groves across the lava terrain
Skjálfandafljót River
Powerful glacial river forming the valley's western boundary
Mývatn Connection
Part of the broader Mývatn-Húsavík geological region
Ring Road Access
Easily accessible via Route 1 between Húsavík and Mývatn
How to Get There
- Located on Route 1 (Ring Road) between Húsavík and Lake Mývatn in Northeast Iceland
- Approximately 50 km east of Akureyri via the Ring Road, about 40 minutes by car
- Akureyri Airport is the closest domestic flight hub with daily connections from Reykjavik
- Húsavík is 20 minutes north and Mývatn is 30 minutes east, making combined day trips easy
- The valley is crossed by local roads branching off Route 1, all accessible by standard car
Best Time to Visit
- June-August: Lush vegetation at peak, midnight sun, comfortable 10-15°C, ideal for lava field exploration
- May: Spring arrival of migratory birds including pink-footed geese in the wetlands
- September: Autumn colors in the birch and heather, northern lights season begins
- October-April: Accessible year-round via Route 1, but short daylight and cold (-5 to 3°C)
- Late June to mid-July: Best for wildflower displays across the lava field vegetation
Planning help
Adaldalur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.