The Myvatn Nature Baths is the ultimate destination for those looking to relax and partake in one of Iceland’s age-old traditions: soaking in the hot springs. But the Myvatn Nature Baths are actually man-made geothermal pools that utilize the natural hot springs from the nearby surroundings, as well as the cold water from Lake Myvatn.
Just 2 kilometers east of the village of Reykjahlid, the Myvatn Nature Baths is a must-visit spot for those traveling through North Iceland, similar to the Blue Lagoon in South Iceland. This article explores what makes the Myvatn Nature Baths so popular and why you need to include it on your Iceland trip itinerary.
What to Expect from Your Visit to the Myvatn Nature Baths
The Myvatn Nature Baths opened their doors in 2004 and use a hot spring 2500 meters below ground. The hot spring water keeps the man-made lagoon between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius. Many who come to take a soak in the warm waters don’t just do it for the sake of relaxation but also for the healing properties the water possesses.
The combination of heat with various minerals has been proven to be beneficial to those with dermatological or respiratory problems. But there’s much more to look forward to at the Myvatn Nature Baths than just the lagoon. Visitors can also use the two steam baths, the temperature of which is roughly 50 degrees Celsius with almost 100% humidity.
There’s also a hot tub and a separate kiddies pool, and when everyone’s worked up an appetite, you can grab something to eat and drink at the on-site restaurant. The lagoon also has a swim-up bar selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, so the entire family can be kept well-hydrated without ever leaving the pool.
Operating hours change with the seasons, so please double-check before you end up at a closed door. But, generally, you’ll be able to use the facilities from 10:00 till past 22:00, 7 days a week. You’ll also need to pay an entrance fee. These ticket prices also vary. They are:
Seniors (those 65 years and older) = 4 560 ISK (+/- $33 or €30)
Adults (anyone over 16 years of age) = 6 900 ISK (+/- $50 or €46)
Students (only those who have a valid student card with them) = 4 560 ISK (+/- $33 or €30)
Teenagers (anyone between the ages of 13 and 15) = 3 390 ISK (+/- $25 or €23)
Children (anyone 12 years and younger) = Free entry
The Disabled = 4 560 ISK (+/- $33 or €30)
For those of us who would forget our own heads if it wasn’t attached to our bodies, the Myvatn Nature Baths also have a few saving grace solutions, and one can also rent the following items:
Towel = 1 000 ISK (+/- $7.30 or €6.70)
Swimwear = 950 ISK (+/- $7 or €6.35)
Bath Robe = 1 800 ISK (+/- $13.10 or €12.05)
Things to Do Near the Myvatn Nature Baths
Myvatn Nature Baths is often a stop along a Diamond Circle road trip. This means you don’t even need to drive 5 minutes away from the Myvatn Nature Baths before you start hitting a few of our other gems here on the island. So, if you want to compile your trip itinerary for the area, don’t forget to include the following:
Mount Namaskard
As pungent as the air may be because of the sulfur, as incredible and beautiful is this colorful geothermal area with its fumaroles and bubbling mud pits.
Dimmuborgir
This dramatic-looking lava field with its strange rock and lava formations has not just captured the Icelander’s imagination (there are many myths and legends surrounding it), but also that of Hollywood. Many of you would’ve already “seen” Dimmuborgir. You would’ve come to know it as Mance Rayder’s Wildling Camp Beyond the Wall in the popular series Game of Thrones.
Grjotagja
This cave is yet another favorite among Game of Thrones fans. Many will recognize this cave with its hot spring as the little hideaway lovenest of Jon Snow and Ygritte. In reality, this hot spring is incredibly volatile, and since you’re constantly playing Russian Roulette whether you’ll end up a piece of Kentucky Fried human or not, the hot spring is no longer open to the public.
In fact, what many don’t know is that the famous Game of Thrones scene was never even shot here. It was shot in a recreated scene in-studio! Nevertheless, the cave and the hot spring are still intriguing spots.
Lake Myvatn
Lake Myvatn doesn’t just dish up breathtaking views and snapshots of the Icelandic landscape. It’s also a favorite amongst avid birdwatchers. You will find more than a dozen duck species alone, so you can only imagine what a catalog of must-sees awaits you. Those who just enjoy being out in nature can also take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful lake and just take in the incredible surroundings.
Two Famous Waterfalls
You will find two of our most famous waterfalls in Iceland along the Diamond Circle route, which are close to the Myvatn Nature Baths. They are:
Godafoss Waterfall
Godafoss Waterfall translates to “Waterfall of the Gods,” and there are different versions as to where it got its name. The legend that’s most popularly believed is that this is the spot that symbolizes Iceland’s official conversion to Christianity and where a chieftain threw all his pagan idols away. The waterfall can be found just 45 minutes from Akureyri (the so-called capital of the north) and is a magnificent 30 meters wide, tumbling down cliffs 12 meters high.
Dettifoss Waterfall
Dettifoss is officially the second most powerful waterfall in Europe, and to say that it is HUGE would be an understatement. This gigantic waterfall stretches over 100 meters wide and stands 45 meters high. Dettifoss Waterfall is definitely an Iceland bucket list must-see.
The Myvatn Nature Baths Make for a Great Rest Stop Along Your Road Trip
Since the Myvatn Nature Baths lie almost in the center of the popular Diamond Circle route with many other attractions nearby, the baths make a great stop to relax and rejuvenate.
Be sure to rent a campervan in Reykjavik upon arrival so you can take advantage of the most affordable accommodation option in the area, and can be closest to the action at the Myvatn Campsite located against Lake Myvatn, just a short distance from the Myvatn Nature Baths. This way, you’ll be camping in comfort with some of the area’s most-loved attractions right on your doorstep (literally!).