north-iceland · Iceland
Grjótagjá Cave
Grjótagjá is located near Mývatn in North Iceland, between Route 1 and Dimmuborgir. Key features: - Small lava cave (rift in tectonic plates) - Natural geothermal pool (bright blue water) - Temperature: ~50°C (too hot for bathing) - Game of Thrones filming location (Season 3) History: - Used for bathing for decades - Krafla eruptions (1975-84) raised water temperature - Bathing now prohibited (too hot, fragile environment) - Cave remains accessible for viewing Access: - Gravel road from Route 1 near Mývatn - 5 min walk from parking - FREE - Ladder/stairs into cave - Open year-round Safety: - DO NOT bathe (prohibited, dangerous temperature) - Cave floor uneven - Low ceiling (watch head) - Can be crowded Combine with: Mývatn Nature Baths, Hverir, Dimmuborgir Visit duration: 15-20 minutes. Nearby: Mývatn (5 km), Hverir (3 km).
About Grjótagjá Cave
Grjótagjá is located near Mývatn in North Iceland, between Route 1 and Dimmuborgir. Key features: - Small lava cave (rift in tectonic plates) - Natural geothermal pool (bright blue water) - Temperature: ~50°C (too hot for bathing) - Game of Thrones filming location (Season 3) History: - Used for bathing for decades - Krafla eruptions (1975-84) raised water temperature - Bathing now prohibited (too hot, fragile environment) - Cave remains accessible for viewing Access: - Gravel road from Route 1 near Mývatn - 5 min walk from parking - FREE - Ladder/stairs into cave - Open year-round Safety: - DO NOT bathe (prohibited, dangerous temperature) - Cave floor uneven - Low ceiling (watch head) - Can be crowded Combine with: Mývatn Nature Baths, Hverir, Dimmuborgir Visit duration: 15-20 minutes. Nearby: Mývatn (5 km), Hverir (3 km).
History & Background
This site in North Iceland has captivated visitors and locals alike throughout Iceland's history. The natural formations here were shaped over thousands of years by the forces of volcanism, glaciation, and erosion. Early settlers recognized the unique beauty of this place, and it features in various historical accounts and folklore. Iceland's natural wonders have been described by travelers since the medieval period, with some of the earliest written accounts appearing in the sagas and geographic treatises of the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, This site continues to draw visitors from around the world who come to witness the extraordinary landscapes that make Iceland one of the most geologically diverse places on the planet.
Key Facts
- ✔Lava cave with hot spring
- ✔Electric-blue pool
- ✔Game of Thrones filming spot
- ✔Too hot for bathing (50°C+)
- ✔5 min from Route 1
Tours Near Grjótagjá Cave
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
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Why Visit
Walk into a lava rift cave with electric-blue geothermal pool — Game of Thrones filming location with stunning underground hot spring.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Off-Peak Visit
Visit this attraction during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
this attraction looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.