Mineral rich waters
The Mývatn Nature Baths are known for the mineral composition of its waters. Full of sulfur, silica, and other natural substances, and with an alkaline pH, the pools are thought to have a positive effect on asthma (and other respiratory diseases) and skin conditions.
Hot water here is manually pumped up from a depth of 2,500 meters (8,202 feet), usually around 130 °C (266 °F), and mixed with cooler temperatures from the lake to create an ideal bathing experience. In addition to the extensive pools, the facility has one restaurant and a few saunas—though no onsite hotels or extra spa treatments—making this a simpler place to relax than it’s “big sister”, the Blue Lagoon (Iceland’s most popular hot spring), which I cover below.
Northern exposure
Located just a few miles off the famous Ring Road, Mývatn sits amid the rugged and volcanic hills of northern Iceland. The region is one of the most geographically diverse areas in the country. Mount Námaskarð, a geothermal pass between two mountains with boiling sulfuric mud springs and fumaroles lies a few miles from the hot springs. In addition, there is Lake Mývatn, which is located just down the road from the pools, and is a popular place for bird watchers in Iceland.
The best way to see the beauty of Northern Iceland is via the Diamond Circle, a 306km (190 mile) paved loop that brings tourists and cyclists from around the world and takes you to Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss Waterfall, Ásbyrgi Canyon and the fishing town of Húsavík in a four hour car drive or a two day bike trip. Another reason to come? If you visit in the winter you will have the chance to see Iceland’s Northern Lights (in fact, Mývatn is considered the “northern lights capital” of the country).
A word on the Blue Lagoon
Mývatn Nature Baths is often compared to the world famous Blue Lagoon due to the fact that both have vibrant blue waters. Though both are great, Mývatn is a more naturally beautiful area surrounded by mountains and volcanoes where the Blue Lagoon has more of an industrial feel as it’s quite developed. The Blue Lagoon is closer to Reykjavík, which makes it more convenient to get to, but also means you’re likely to encounter crowds.