north-iceland · Iceland
Grjótagjá
Grjótagjá is a remarkable volcanic wonder in North Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
About Grjótagjá
Grjótagjá is a remarkable volcanic wonder in North Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
History & Background
The cave's geothermal pool was used for bathing by locals for decades until the Krafla eruptions of 1975–1984 raised the water temperature to over 50°C — too hot for bathing. The temperature has slowly dropped and is now around 43–46°C but swimming is still officially discouraged. The cave featured in Game of Thrones Season 3 (2013) as Jon Snow and Ygritte's bathing scene, bringing it worldwide attention.
Did You Know?
- ✔Water temperature approximately 43–46°C — too hot for bathing
- ✔Bathing was disrupted when Krafla eruptions raised temperature to 50°C in the 1970s
- ✔Featured in Game of Thrones Season 3 (2013)
- ✔The cave is a tectonic fissure between the North American and Eurasian plates
- ✔Short walk from Lake Mývatn
Tours Near Grjótagjá
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Grjótagjá is a remarkable volcanic in Iceland. Grjótagjá is a remarkable volcanic wonder in North Iceland. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Vi... Grjótagjá is a small but spectacular lava tube cave at Lake Mývatn, famous for its crystalline turquoise geothermal pool inside the cave. The cave became internationally famous after appearing in Game of Thrones (Season 3) as the location where Jon S. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
History & Background
The cave's geothermal pool was used for bathing by locals for decades until the Krafla eruptions of 1975–1984 raised the water temperature to over 50°C — too hot for bathing. The temperature has slowly dropped and is now around 43–46°C but swimming is still officially discouraged. The cave featured in Game of Thrones Season 3 (2013) as Jon Snow and Ygritte's bathing scene, bringing it worldwide attention.
Story & Folklore
Grjótagjá is a small but spectacular lava tube cave at Lake Mývatn, famous for its crystalline turquoise geothermal pool inside the cave. The cave became internationally famous after appearing in Game of Thrones (Season 3) as the location where Jon Snow and Ygritte bathe. What the show didn't mention is that the pool became too hot to bathe in following the Krafla volcanic activity of 1975–1984, which raised water temperatures to 50–60°C. The water has since cooled to around 45°C — still too hot for safe bathing, but perfect for photography. The pale turquoise colour and the cathedral-like quality of the light reflected off cave walls make Grjótagjá one of Iceland's most beautiful small attractions.
Visitor Information
Best Time
Year-round (viewing only — bathing prohibited since the 1970s Krafla eruptions raised water temperature)
Duration
15–20 minutes
Access
Off Route 860 near Mývatn. Short walk from parking.
Why Visit
Featured in Game of Thrones as Jon Snow and Ygritte's cave
Did You Know?
Bathing is prohibited due to dangerously high water temperature
Legends of Grjótagjá
Grjótagjá has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Lava Formations Close-Up
Look carefully at the lava formations near Grjótagjá — each tells a story of how it cooled.
Rope lava, pillow lava, and columnar basalt each formed under different conditions, creating a geological textbook in stone.
Moss & Lichens
The moss and lichen growing on the volcanic rock are some of the first life to colonize new lava fields.
Some of these organisms grow less than 1cm per year, meaning the patches you see may be decades or centuries old.
Sunset Colors
The volcanic rock takes on incredible red and gold hues during sunset.
The iron-rich minerals in the lava glow in warm light, creating a photographer's paradise.
Practical Information
Best Time
Year-round (viewing only — bathing prohibited since the 1970s Krafla eruptions raised water temperature)
Duration
15–20 minutes
Access
Off Route 860 near Mývatn. Short walk from parking.
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to visit volcanic sites in Iceland?▾
Most volcanic sites are safe when you stay on marked trails. Always check SafeTravel.is for current volcanic activity alerts.
Do I need a guide to visit this site?▾
Many volcanic sites can be visited independently, but guided tours offer valuable geological insight and enhanced safety.
Can I visit in winter?▾
Access depends on the specific site and road conditions. Check road.is for current conditions before your visit.