Quick FactsOverview
About Earth Lagoon Myvatn
Earth Lagoon Myvatn, Iceland is a geothermal lagoon and steam bath complex at Jardbadsholar on the northeast shore of Lake Myvatn, operated since 2004 and rebranded from Myvatn Nature Baths in 2025 following a major renovation and rebuild. The facility is currently undergoing construction for its new building, which is planned to open in spring 2026; visitors should confirm current opening status directly with the operator at earthlagoon.is before planning a visit. When open, it is one of the most significant geothermal pool destinations in North Iceland and a standard stop on the Diamond Circle route.
The lagoon is filled with naturally alkaline, sulphur-rich water drawn from the Bjarnaflag borehole operated by the National Power Company, which delivers geothermal water at around 130 degrees Celsius before it is cooled to a comfortable bathing temperature of 36 to 40 degrees Celsius. The water contains silica, sulphur, and other minerals and requires no chlorine or added disinfectants. The new facility will add expanded lagoon sections including a fissure passage, a rock steam room accessible by water, a lava cave steam bath, new hot tubs, and an upgraded restaurant and bar. The site is surrounded by volcanic lava fields and overlooks the broader Myvatn landscape.
Location & Access
Getting to Earth Lagoon Myvatn
Earth Lagoon Myvatn is at Jardbadsholar, 660 Myvatn, on the south side of Route 1 (the Ring Road) approximately 3 km east of the village of Reykjahlid and about 105 km east of Akureyri. The entrance is clearly signposted from the Ring Road. By car from Akureyri the drive takes roughly one hour; from Egilsstadir to the east it is approximately two hours. A car park is at the facility and no hike is required from the car park to the entrance. Most visitors arriving by car simply pull in off Route 1 and walk directly to reception.
From Reykjavik, the drive takes approximately five to six hours along the Ring Road heading north and then east. Many visitors fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri, a 45-minute flight, and then drive the remaining 105 km. The lagoon is part of the Diamond Circle, a scenic route in North Iceland that also includes Dettifoss waterfall, Asbyrgi canyon, and Husavik, making it a natural inclusion on any multi-day North Iceland itinerary. For those searching for geothermal pools in Iceland on a North Iceland road trip, this is the primary facility-based option in the Lake Myvatn area. Always confirm opening status at earthlagoon.is before arriving, as the facility closed in January 2026 for construction and is planned to reopen in spring 2026.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Earth Lagoon Myvatn Suits
Earth Lagoon Myvatn suits most visitor types who want a managed geothermal lagoon experience in a dramatic volcanic landscape, without the crowds and travel time associated with the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik. It is well-suited to independent drivers on the Ring Road or Diamond Circle, tour groups on a North Iceland itinerary, families, and couples. The facility has documented wheelchair access, with a wheelchair available from the changing rooms to the lagoon for guests who need it. Children are welcome, with free entry for children aged 5 and under under normal operating pricing.
For those seeking accessible hot springs in Iceland with full facilities including changing rooms, lockers, a restaurant, and steam baths, Earth Lagoon is the best-equipped option in the Myvatn area. The lagoon is shallow enough to stand throughout, with a maximum depth of around 1.3 metres and an average of 1.2 metres. Advance booking is strongly recommended in summer as the facility fills quickly. Remove silver and copper jewellery before entering, as the sulphur content of the water causes rapid tarnishing.
Note that as of January 2026 the facility is closed for construction of its new building, with a planned reopening in spring 2026. Verify current status at earthlagoon.is before booking any connecting travel or planning your North Iceland route around a visit.
Safety & Etiquette
Earth Lagoon Myvatn Safety Tips
Earth Lagoon Myvatn is generally safe as a managed commercial facility, with the main safety considerations being the sulphurous water, hot water temperatures, slippery wet surfaces, and Myvatn's unpredictable weather conditions outside the water. Note that the facility is closed for renovation until spring 2026; check earthlagoon.is for current status before visiting.
The lagoon water is sulphur-rich and naturally alkaline. Remove silver and copper jewellery before entering, as sulphur causes rapid discolouration. The facility recommends not showering for several hours after your session to allow mineral absorption; shower facilities with Icelandic-made toiletries are available on site. All guests are required to shower before entering the lagoon, in keeping with Icelandic bathing etiquette.
Water temperatures are maintained between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius. Extended soaking can cause dehydration and light-headedness; drink water between sessions and take breaks using the on-site bar and restaurant. The steam baths run at around 45 degrees Celsius; limit time in them if you have respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Pool decks and changing room floors are wet and slippery; traction sandals are recommended. The outdoor sections of the facility are exposed to Myvatn weather, which can include strong wind and rapid temperature changes; bring warm layers for between and after sessions. Pregnant visitors and those with heart conditions should consult a doctor before soaking in geothermal water.
