Myvatn Nature Baths

## Overview Myvatn Nature Baths (Jarðböðin við Mývatn) is a geothermal bathing complex situated on the eastern shore of Lake Myvatn in northeast Iceland, at an elevation of roughly 290 meters above sea level. Often called the "Blue Lagoon of the North," the baths draw their water from a geothermal borehole that taps into the same volcanic system responsible for the dramatic landscape of the Myvatn region — an area shaped by thousands of years of volcanic eruptions, lava flows, and geothermal activity along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The main bathing lagoon holds approximately 3.5 million liters of geothermally heated water, maintained at a comfortable 36–40 °C (97–104 °F). The water is rich in dissolved minerals — particularly silica and sulfur — which give it a distinctive milky-blue appearance. These mineral-rich waters have long been valued for their reported skin-soothing and relaxing properties; many visitors say the water leaves their skin noticeably softer and that a soak promotes deeper, more restful sleep. Unlike the more famous Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik, Myvatn Nature Baths offers a quieter, less crowded experience set against a striking volcanic backdrop of pseudocraters, lava pillars, and steaming fumaroles. The facility also includes natural steam baths carved into the landscape, where visitors can enjoy the geothermal steam in a more intimate setting. ## Directions 1. **From Akureyri (the capital of North Iceland):** Head east on Route 1 (the Ring Road) for approximately 90 km (about 1 hour of driving). Follow signs toward Reykjahlíð and Lake Myvatn. 2. **From Reykjahlíð village:** Continue east on Route 1 for roughly 3 km. The entrance to Myvatn Nature Baths is signposted on the right-hand (south) side of the road. 3. **From Reykjavik:** The drive is approximately 480 km via Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading north and then east — roughly 5.5 to 6 hours of driving without stops. Many visitors combine the trip with stops at Goðafoss waterfall and the town of Akureyri. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 65.630899, -16.8501567 — these will bring you directly to the facility's parking area. The baths have a large, well-maintained parking lot. The facility is open year-round, though hours vary by season, so checking current opening times before your visit is recommended. ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll find a modern reception area where admission tickets are purchased. The facility is a paid hot spring with an entrance fee that includes access to both the main bathing lagoon and the steam baths. The main lagoon is set into the landscape with views stretching across the surrounding lava fields and, on clear days, toward the mountains beyond Lake Myvatn. The milky-blue water is continuously refreshed from the geothermal source, so it stays clean and warm even in winter. In fact, winter visits are particularly popular — soaking in the warm water while snow blankets the surrounding lava fields (and, with luck, the Northern Lights dance overhead) is a truly memorable experience. The on-site café serves refreshments, light meals, and drinks, making it easy to spend a leisurely half-day here. Changing rooms with showers and lockers are provided. The surrounding Myvatn area is one of Iceland's most geologically active and scenically diverse regions. Nearby attractions include the Námaskarð geothermal pass (with its boiling mud pots and fumaroles), the Grjótagjá cave and hot spring, the Dimmuborgir lava formations, and Hverfjall crater — all within a short drive. The area is also one of Europe's most important habitats for nesting waterfowl, particularly during summer months. The baths are family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages. The facility is accessible year-round, though the summer "midnight sun" season (June–July) and the winter Northern Lights season (September–March) are especially popular times to visit.