A beautiful lake, half buried in the landscape with wall of cliffs surrounding most of it. The lake is long, lagoon-like and covers 0.5 square kilometres. The unusual thing about Fljótsbotnar is that the water level can vary up to 5 meters depending on the flow from the glacier many kilometres away. There are no rivers or springs that run through this lake, it is all freshwater flowing from underneath Vatnajökull glacier. The lake also changes colours when glacier flood occurs, becomes murky and milky. As the lake is nestled between two lava fields, you can see where lava flowed into the lake, giving the lake’s edge a unique look. This location is popular fishing ground for the locals.
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Accessibility
The lake is located 4.6 kilometers from the main road, down a good gravel road that reaches it. There are a few dirt paths that lead to the base of the lake but are only suitable for 4-wheelers. A permit is needed to scout this area and drive the old paths.
Services nearby
There are lots of hotel options around this area. The village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur is 26 kilometres away with a store, swimming pool, campsite, gas station and restaurants. The nearest hospital is in Selfoss, 186 kilometres away.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
6.5 kilometers from the main road lies a farm with fields that could be used as basecamp. There are a few old dirt paths that lead to the lake that could be used as offloading with 4-wheelers or suitable vehicles. Phone coverage is good at this location. A small fishing hut by the lake could be rented but other than that there are no facilities at this location.
Risk factors
The lava is jagged scoria stones with big boulders and sharp edges.
The wall of cliffs is steep, and the edge should be approached with care.
The lake is cold, 5-10 °C.
Visitors
The area is a popular fishing spot with the locals and anglers. The farm close to the lake manages the lake regarding fishing permits and a permit for filming.
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