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Grjótagjá

Grjótagjá was a popular bathing place for decades until the 1975-84 volcanic eruptions at Krafla that brought magma streams under the area resulting in a sharp rise in water temperature to nearly 60°C. Today the water temperature ranges from 43°C-46°C. Enter the caves at your own risk, but there possess a danger of rocks falling from the ceiling. The public is prohibited from bathing or use of caves for any other purposes than for inspection and photography. Violation of these rules can result in expulsion from the area. You are on the private land of Vogar. Please be respectful to the nature.

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About Grjótagjá

Grjótagjá is a small cave in the Mývatn area, and was a popular bathing place for the locals some decades ago. However, geological activity in the period 1975-1984, caused the temperature of the water in the cave's pool to rise to such a degree that it has not been possible to bathe there since. But one can always dream ... a peep into the waters and a fertile imagination could conjure up visions of taking a dip in this cosy little cave, as was the custom in the past. 

Fun Facts

Iceland's stunning Grjotagja Cave gained fame in 2013 when Jon Snow and Ygritte visited it in the fifth episode of Game of Thrones' third season, titled "Kissed by Fire." This scene, where the couple shares a romantic moment in the cave, is still cherished by many Game of Thrones fans as one of the most beautiful and romantic sequences in the series.

Due to filming restrictions, the scene was actually shot in a studio. However, the Game of Thrones creative team recreated the cave to enhance authenticity, even adding a waterfall to make the setting more romantic!

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Discover Mývatn

Mývatn offers a unique natural environment characterized by dramatic contrasts and close proximities, allowing visitors to experience the best of Iceland. Vast open spaces with roads and walkways lead travelers to otherworldly locations shaped by volcanic activity. Whether you wish to enjoy the scenery, explore unique natural phenomena, or observe the plant and bird life, Mývatn has it all. Additionally, the area provides a range of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options, all backed by years of expertise. While a large number of travelers visit Mývatn in the summer, many find the lake and its surroundings equally impressive in winter.

As the fourth largest lake in Iceland, Mývatn spans 37 km². Its shores are indented with numerous coves and inlets, and its surface is dotted with around 50 small islets and skerries. The lake gets its name from the swarms of midges (Chironomidae) that are abundant in the area.

The lake is very shallow, allowing sunlight to reach the lake bed across its entire surface. The lake's ecology is highly diverse and fascinating, featuring prolific growth of freshwater seaweed and large quantities of diatoms on the lake bed. Near the surface, Mývatn's famous arctic char swim among aquatic plants and fertile islets.

The area around the lake is home to a rich and varied birdlife, with many species of lake and marsh birds. Mývatn is particularly renowned for hosting the largest variety of duck species in the world during the summer. As a legally protected conservation area, Mývatn and the Laxá river, which flows out of the lake, are listed on the register of internationally important wetlands.

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