Myvatn Nature Baths
Myvatn Nature Bath, otherwise known as Jarðböðin, is a magnificent hot spring located in, you guessed it, the Myvatn region of northern Iceland...
Iceland is full of hot springs and Icelanders really know how to take full advantage of these places, whether it's natural hot rivers, geothermally-heated pools, or spa resorts like the Blue Lagoon.
Therefore, since 2004, there has also been another geothermal resort in the north of the island, very close to Lake Myvatn: Jarðböðin - Myvatn Nature Bath.
Myvatn Nature Baths: swimming
Myvatn Nature Baths
To see the midnight sun while soaking in mineral water at 38 °C (36 to 40°) in the middle of the lunar landscape of the Myvatn region is quite the experience. After 08:00PM, the spa is generally less crowded and whenever possible try to go there in the evening or in early morning for some quiet.
The lagoon itself is an artificial construction, the bottom layered with sand and gravel. This is spring water however, and its healing properties are unique in many ways. It is perfectly suited for swimming, because due to its chemical composition, unwanted bacteria and vegetation do not thrive in the lagoon thanks to these healing minerals.
Sulfur for example is considered to have a positive effect on asthma and other respiratory diseases, and countless mineral compounds in the water are known to provide relief for various skin problems.
Myvatn nature baths: rates and opening hours
Sauna - Myvatn nature baths
In terms of amenities and access, it's just like any traditional pool. You go in first through the changing rooms, which are very clean and modern, and take your mandatory shower on the way to the pool.
As is the case at the Blue Lagoon, there's a bar and a coffee shop for food and drink. The Kvika Cafe is quite large and can accommodate up to 120 people with a charming outdoor section and a menu of classic sandwiches, soups, salads and various desserts.
There are also two saunas for the real spa-enthusiasts, with a temperature of 50°. They were freshly renovated in 2019 and now have a view of the misty lagoon itself!
Myvatn nature baths in September
Despite its relatively high price, Myvatn Nature Baths is still highly recommended to really get a feel for this country's character, so if you don't do another top shelf spa like the Blue Lagoon, this is a great option.
See our guide for an overview of the best hot springs in Iceland: Learn more about the best hot springs in Iceland.
This spa also has the advantage of being open every day of the year. Bigger and better equipped than the Secret Lagoon in Fluðdir, and often less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths has like its competitor a sauna, a restaurant, and a café and is a great alternative.
2022 prices
- Adult: 5900 ISK
- Teenager (13 to 15 years old): 2900 ISK
- Seniors, disabled people, students: 3900 ISK
- Free for accompanied children under 12
Opening times
The opening hours are also based on the season:
- Winter: From 03:00PM to 09:00PM
- Summer (05/01 to 09/30): From 12:00 to 10:00PM.
In summer, in particular, the place is very popular, which is why it is preferable to book entry to the Myvatn Nature Baths in advance.
How to get there
One of the main assets of Jarðböðin is its location. Indeed, visitors particularly appreciate this place to relax after a long day of walks around Lake Myvatn with its countless hiking trails.
The Myvatn region is a real gem in the country, with so many amazing sites of interest concentrated around the lake.
Jarðböðin is very well indicated on the road, and is located just 5 km from Reykjahlíð. Take Road number 1 and just after the exit for Road 860 that leads east to Grotagja, keep an eye out for a small road on the right allows you to reach the nature bath.
Top picture credit :Myvatn nature bath - banepetkovic@AdobeStock
