Grjótagjá Cave, A Hidden Gem in North Iceland

What's Grjótagjá Cave?

Grjótagjá is a small lava cave near Lake Mývatn in North Iceland. It was formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago and contains a beautiful geothermal hot spring.

The cave gained international fame after its appearance in the third season of Game of Thrones. A memorable scene between Jon Snow and Ygritte—if you’re a fan, you know which scene we’re talking about—was filmed inside this cave. Since then, many more visitors have come to this corner of Iceland to see the cave. In previous years, many tourists missed this amazing geological feature because they didn't know it existed.

Can You Swim in Grjótagjá Cave?

While the crystal-clear blue waters of Grjótagjá's hot spring might look inviting, swimming is not recommended. The water temperature can be unpredictable due to ongoing geothermal activity, and it often goes over comfortable levels.

Historically, it served as a popular bathing spot for locals. However, several volcanic eruptions in the 1970s caused the water temperature to frequently exceed 50°C (122°F), making it unsuitable for bathing. The temperature does not always stay the same; it oscillates, which is often dangerous for humans. Over time, the temperatures have stabilized, but bathing is still discouraged because geothermal activity is unpredictable.

Additionally, the number of visitors has grown significantly in recent years, which can impact the cave's delicate ecosystem. To protect this natural wonder, the authorities have also promoted other nearby hot springs that are more suitable for bathing.

Where's Grjótagjá Cave and How to Get There

To reach Grjótagjá Cave, you’ll need to drive, as public transportation in this region is limited. Most travelers begin their journey from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, or Akureyri, the largest city in North Iceland.

If you’re starting from Reykjavik, the journey takes approximately 6 hours, with a total distance of 470 kilometers (292 miles). Although it’s a long journey, it’s quite easy. Take Route 1 (or ) northbound. Once you’ve passed the town of Reykjahlíð, you just have to turn right into Route 860. There’s a small parking area nearby.

If you’re coming from Akureyri, the drive is only 1 hour and 15 minutes; it’s 80 kilometers (50 miles). You have to take Route 1 eastward and then Route 860 after Reykjahlíð.

The roads are generally in good condition and well-maintained, but in winter, icy conditions can make driving tricky, so checking road conditions before setting off is essential. Renting a 4x4 vehicle could be a good idea, especially in winter, as the cave is located in a remote natural area. It’s also important to know that there are no public facilities like restrooms or restaurants around Grjótagjá, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks, water, and anything else you might need for the visit.

What to Wear When Visiting Grjótagjá Cave

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable and is constantly changing, and even though Grjótagjá Cave is located underground, you’ll still need to dress appropriately for the conditions on the surface. If you’re visiting in summer, temperatures are mild but strong winds and sudden rain showers are common, so wearing waterproof clothes and shoes is recommended. A good fleece or thermal layer will help keep you warm if temperatures drop.

In winter, North Iceland can be very cold, often going well below freezing. You’ll need a heavy winter jacket, gloves, a hat, and warm layers underneath. The paths around the cave can be icy, so if it could be a good idea to add grip to your soles.

Regardless of the season, always wear proper footwear with a good grip. The area around the cave is made of uneven lava rocks that can be slippery, especially after rain.

What to See and Do Near Grjótagjá Cave

Grjótagjá Cave is a magnificent place that deserves a visit on its own. However, the area is full of some of Iceland's most amazing natural monuments. Many of them can be visited on scenic routes like the Diamond Circle, an itinerary that takes you to the best in this region.

Lake Mývatn

This volcanic lake is just a few meters away from Grjótagjá. It is surrounded by lava formations, bubbling mud pools, and wetlands that attract many bird species, including rare ducks found only here. The area also has a great geothermal bathing area, the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Goðafoss

About a 40-minute drive west of Grjótagjá, Goðafoss is one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls. Although not huge in size, it’s the color of the water, of an intense turquoise, that sets this place apart. This waterfall gets its name, meaning “waterfall of the gods,” because here, local chieftain Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan idols into the water when the nation converted to Christianity in the year 1000.

Dettifoss

There’s another waterfall in the Diamond Circle, and it’s nothing like you’ve seen before. Dettifoss is the second most powerful waterfall in Europe, and it falls 44 meters (144 feet) with a thunderous roar that can be heard from a good distance. One of the best things about Dettifoss is that it’s accessible from both the east and west sides, each one offering different views.

Ásbyrgi Canyon

A little further north is Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped canyon with high walls and a beautiful forest at the bottom. According to Norse mythology, it was created when Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, struck the land here with its hoof. There are several hiking trails to explore the area.

Húsavík

The final stop of the Diamond Circle is the charming town of Húsavík. This place is known for its whale-watching tours, which allow visitors to see humpback whales, blue whales, and even orcas in their natural habitat. Different companies operate these guided tours from the town’s harbor. It’s also a great place to taste Icelandic food, and the seafood is extremely fresh.

Travel Tips

• Check the Road Conditions: Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, and roads in the north can become icy or impassable, especially in winter. Always check the conditions before setting off.
• Respect the Environment: Grjótagjá is a delicate natural site, so avoid touching the rock formations or leaving trash behind.
• Bring a Flashlight: Although natural light filters in through the cracks, a flashlight can help you inside the cave.
• Pack Snacks and Water: There are no shops or restaurants at Grjótagjá, so bring supplies if you plan to stay around for a while.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Grjótagjá has become a popular attraction since its appearance in Game of Thrones. Visiting early in the morning or late in the evening can help you be more alone.

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Conclusion

Grjótagjá Cave is one of Iceland’s most fascinating hidden gems. Its popularity has grown in recent years, thanks to its appearance in Game of Thrones, but it’s still relatively unknown. The inside of the cave is absolutely astonishing, with fantastic rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

While you can’t swim in the cave’s hot spring, there are great options for a geothermal bath in the area. This region is also packed with natural wonders and some of the best natural monuments in Iceland. This way, you can add Grjótagjá to a larger and amazing itinerary throughout the country. So, pack your hiking boots, rent a car, and get ready to explore one of the most magical corners of Iceland!