Iceland is famous for our natural hot springs (courtesy of the volcanic activity here on the island). But in recent years a new breed of geothermal hot spots have emerged and is becoming more and more popular by the day. These geothermal pools come in modern and sleek venues, offering all sorts of additional facilities and amenities. One of the most popular in the northern parts of the island is the Myvatn Natural Baths, better known as the Myvatn Nature Baths.
If you’ve ever wanted to treat yourself and have a geothermal experience here in Iceland, but didn’t know which places to add to your trip itinerary – the Myvatn Baths is definitely it. Continue reading to find out exactly what makes the Myvatn Hot Springs so special.
The Myvatn Nature Baths: An Overview
The Myvatn Nature Baths officially opened in June 2004 and is probably the (newer) equivalent of the Blue Lagoon for the northern part of Iceland with its lagoons of bright blue geothermal water. As is the case with the Blue Lagoon, the color is due to the mineral-rich water that is credited with bringing relief to a variety of aches, pains, and dermatological issues.
The hot spring used in the pools here at Myvatn comes from 2500 meters underground, and the pools range between 36 to 40 degrees Celsius. But as we already mentioned, the Myvatn Nature Baths boast a whole lot of added value.
You will find two steam baths (up to about 50 degrees Celsius with 100% humidity), top-notched changing rooms, a hot tub, a kiddie’s pool, a restaurant, as well as a swim-up bar (for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments).
Where are the Myvatn Nature Baths in Iceland?
The Myvatn Nature Baths can be found by Lake Myvatn (providing the baths with incredible views) in the Myvatn region of North Iceland. It is roughly an hour’s drive away from Akureyri (the so-called capital city of the north) and about a 2-hour drive away from Egilsstadir (the so-called capital city of the east).
What’s more is that the Myvatn Nature Baths are literally on the Ring Road route, making it a pretty convenient (and relaxing) stop for those doing a Ring Road road trip around the island.
Operating Hours at the Myvatn Baths
Operating hours vary throughout the year at the Myvatn Nature Baths due to the changing weather (and number of visitors) between the seasons. For this reason, you will need to inquire before heading out to just double-check. But in general, operating hours vary between 10:00 to 23:00 and 12:00 to 22:00, 7 days a week. Just keep in mind that visitors will be required to leave the pools 15 minutes before the official closing time.
How Much is a Visit to the Myvatn Hot Springs?
How much you spend at the Myvatn Hot Springs will depend on your age and how forgetful you are. No, we’re not kidding. Your age will pretty much dictate how much you’re charged for admission, and there are a few rentals available for those who find themselves missing an essential. Pricing looks as follows:
- Seniors (those 65+ years of age) = 4 560 ISK (+/- $33 or €30)
- Adults (those 16+ years of age) = 6 900 ISK (+/- $50 or €46)
- Students (those with a valid student card) = 4 560 ISK (+/- $33 or €30)
- Teenagers (those between the ages of 13 and 15) = 3 390 ISK (+/- $25 or €23)
- Children (those 12 years of age and under) = Free entry
- Those with Disabilities = 4 560 ISK (+/- $33 or €30)
- Towel Rental = 1 000 ISK (+/- $7.30 or €6.70)
- Swimwear Rental = 950 ISK (+/- $7 or €6.35)
- Bath Robe Rental = 1 800 ISK (+/- $13.10 or €12.05)
When is the Best Time to Visit the Myvatn Nature Baths?
As you can see from the operating hours, the Myvatn Nature Baths can be visited all year round, even if it is at slightly varied times. But these hot springs still count as outdoor activities, which means that they will be impacted by the weather, and, ultimately, your own preferences.
If you’re looking for stereotypical “swim weather” with higher temperatures and overall milder weather conditions, the summer and its shoulder months (late April to early September) are your best bet here in Iceland.
That being said, any local will tell you that there’s something thrilling and rejuvenating about sitting in our hot springs with a blanket of snow around you and the cold air hitting your face. So, if that’s not a scenario that immediately scares you away, it’s well worth the try.
Other Things to Do Near the Myvatn Natural Baths
If you would like to extend your exploration of the surrounding area, you can consider adding the following to your trip itinerary:
- Mount Namaskard – a geothermal area full of bubbling mud pits and fumaroles.
- Dimmuborgir – a lava field with all sorts of strange rock and lava formations.
- Grjotagja – the cave with a hot spring where an infamous Game of Thrones scene was shot.
- Lake Myvatn – the big draw of the Myvatn area and a birder’s paradise.
- Godafoss Waterfall – one of our biggest waterfalls where Iceland symbolically converted to Christianity.
- Dettifoss Waterfall – another large waterfall in Iceland that holds the impressive title of the most powerful waterfall in Europe.
Places to Stay Near the Myvatn Nature Baths
If you’re thinking of exploring the area further or just want to make this one of your overnight stops along a road trip, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from The below are highly recommended. See if any of the following suits your needs and requirements:
- Myvatn Berjaya Iceland Hotel
- Vogafjos Farm Resort
- Oli’s Homestay
- Birkilauf Nature Lodge
- Elda Guesthouse
Myvatn Natural Baths: Embracing the Views and Relaxing Those Muscles
The best way to explore the island is via a road trip, but long stretches on the road definitely impact the body. That’s why we always recommend using our hot springs and geothermal pools as relaxing and rejuvenating pitstops along the way.
With the Myvatn Nature Baths conveniently sitting right next to the Ring Road, it’s the perfect place to take a little break. To road trip in the most convenient and affordable way, we highly recommend you rent an RV in Iceland.
That way you can also take advantage of the camping spots at Elda Guesthouse, irrespective of season. But however you choose to travel, you cannot explore the north of Iceland without embracing the views and relaxing those weary traveler muscles at the Myvatn Natural Baths.
