north iceland
Grjótagjá Cave
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).
🐉 The Lagarfljót Wyrm
The lakes and rivers of North and East Iceland are said to harbor the Lagarfljótsormurinn, a fearsome serpent similar to Scotland's Loch Ness Monster. According to legend, a young girl placed a gold ring on a heath serpent to make it grow, but the creature grew so large and fierce that she threw it into Lagarfljót lake. The serpent continued to grow and has terrorized the area for centuries. Sightings have been reported well into the modern era, with some photographs and videos purporting to show the creature. Whether real or imagined, the legend reflects Iceland's deep connection to its watery landscapes and the mysteries they hold.
📖 History of Grjótagjá Cave
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.
✈️ Why Visit
Walk into a lava rift cave with electric-blue geothermal pool — Game of Thrones filming location with stunning underground hot spring.
💡 Did You Know?
Grjótagjá cave is literally in the Mid-Atlantic Rift — the crack where North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are separating.
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
💎 Hidden Gems
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."
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
🚗 Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
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.
📍 GPS Location
Book a Tour to Grjótagjá Cave
Find guided tours, day trips and activities. Compare prices and book instantly with free cancellation.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.