Mývatn Nature Baths – Northeast Iceland

The Mývatn Nature Baths, sometimes called the Blue Lagoon of Mývatn, are in the breathtaking Mývatn Geothermal Area. Set in the temperate climate of the northeastern part of Iceland, the weather is quite mild, despite being just 65 miles (105km) south of the Arctic Circle.

With surrounding natural attractions like Hverir and Mt. Namafjall, it’s a wonderful place to spend some time relaxing in the hot water. On June 30, 2004, the Mývatn Nature Baths opened in a designated nature reserve, being careful to protect the wildlife bathers enjoy.

History permeates the area, and some records show these healing waters were used as long ago as the 13th century. In fact, they seep up from 1.5 miles (2500m) below ground to form one of the most well-loved swimming holes in the country.

Mineral Hot Springs Lagoon

Overlooking the Mývatn Nature Baths resort in Iceland — Mývatn Nature Baths, Northeast Iceland. Photo by: Second-Half Travels

This large complex on a hot springs lagoon is isolated in the wonderfully eerie, treeless hills of the Icelandic countryside. Come in the winter, and there’s a good chance you’ll have front-row seats to the Northern Lights.

The pool, complete with a swim-up bar, has an average depth of 3.9ft (1.2m) with the deepest point slightly lower at 4.3 (1.3m). The bottom is covered with sand and gravel. The balmy water is between 97℉ and 104℉ (36-40℃) with a higher sulfur content than other places in the country, so you won’t want to get in with your brass or silver jewelry.

Sunset over Mývatn Nature Baths in Iceland — Early evening at Mývatn Nature Baths, Iceland. Photo by: Pieter Morlion

Bring your towel or rent one from the front desk. Lockers are included and are located in the changing room. The complex and the pool are open every day of the week from noon to 10 pm with slight changes on holidays. Ramps are in place for those with mobility issues.

A steam bath also sits on the property. Vents in the floor allow the heated mineral water to float up, creating 100% humidity and an average temperature of 113℉ (45℃). 2019 saw the addition of large windows in the space to take advantage of the picture-perfect views. The outdoor shower is steps away from the entrance and is perfect for cooling down after a session in the steam.

Dining

Man sipping on a cup of coffee inside Cafe Kvika with a window showing Mývatn Nature Baths behind him — Coffee at Cafe Kvika, Mývatn Nature Baths. Photo by: Michael Labrecque-Jessen

Cafe Kvika is available to enjoy a good meal amidst dips in the pool. Indoor and outdoor seating is set up to take advantage of the surrounding natural beauty.

Multi-story windows also help capture the landscape as diners enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods. They also offer the famous geyser bread baked in a ground oven that uses heat from a geyser and topped with smoked arctic char.

Getting There

Steam rises from the hot springs at Mývatn Nature Baths on a cloudy summer day — The hot springs resort of Mývatn Nature Baths. Photo by: mariejirousek

From Reykjahlíð, the nearest town, follow Route 1 south and then east for 1.7 miles (2.7km). Then, take a right at the sign, continuing until you arrive at the baths.