Enchanting Grjótagjá: A Hidden Gem of Iceland
Discover the magical Grjótagjá cave in Iceland, featuring stunning geothermal hot springs and breathtaking rock formations in a serene setting.
Nestled near Reykjahlíð, Grjótagjá is a captivating lava cave known for its geothermal hot spring. This natural wonder invites tourists to explore its stunning blue waters and unique rock formations, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
A brief summary to Grjótagjá
- J4G8+FQW, Reykjahlíð, IS
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Bring a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the hot spring, but be mindful of the weather and water temperature.
- Respect the natural environment; avoid littering and follow local guidelines to preserve this stunning location.
- Consider combining your visit with a trip to nearby Lake Mývatn for a full day of exploring Iceland's natural beauty.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Reykjahlíð, which is located near Lake Mývatn. From Akureyri, take Route 1 (Þjóðvegur) heading southeast for about 90 km. Once you reach Reykjahlíð, follow the signs to Grjótagjá, which is approximately 3 km from the center of the village. The final approach is on a gravel road; make sure your vehicle is suitable for this type of terrain. Parking is available near the entrance.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Akureyri to Reykjahlíð. Check the schedules on the Strætó website for the latest timings. The bus ride takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Reykjahlíð, you will need to walk approximately 3 km to Grjótagjá. It is advisable to use a map application on your smartphone to navigate the short walk to the site.
-
Walking from Reykjahlíð
Once you arrive in Reykjahlíð, whether by car or bus, you can easily walk to Grjótagjá. From the village center, head east on the main road (Route 1) until you see the sign for Grjótagjá. The walk is scenic and will take about 30-40 minutes. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, as there are limited services along the way.
Discover more about Grjótagjá
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vogafjós Farm Resort - guesthouse location
1.5 km
Discover authentic Icelandic farmstay at Vogafjós Farm Resort near Lake Mývatn, where nature meets tradition and comfort in stunning surroundings.
Mývatn Tours
1.8 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife with Mývatn Tours, your gateway to Iceland's stunning Mývatn region.
Vogafjós Farm Resort
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Vogafjós Farm Resort, where authentic Icelandic cuisine meets stunning views of Lake Myvatn.
Visit Mývatn
2.1 km
Explore the captivating landscapes and geothermal wonders of Lake Mývatn, a must-see destination in Iceland for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Geysir bread tasting from Kaffi Borgir
2.2 km
Experience the authentic taste of Iceland with traditional geysir bread at Kaffi Borgir, where nature meets culinary artistry.
Myvatn Lookout
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and unique geological wonders of Myvatn Lookout, your gateway to Iceland's natural beauty and adventure.
Hlid Hostel
3.0 km
Experience the warmth of Hlid Hostel in Reykjahlíð, your gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders and adventure-filled landscapes.
Hlíð ferðaþjónusta
3.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hlíð ferðaþjónusta in Myvatn, Iceland—a perfect campground for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Dimmuborgir Guesthouse
3.3 km
Discover the natural beauty and unique geological wonders of Mývatn while enjoying a cozy stay at Dimmuborgir Guesthouse in Iceland.
Fosshotel Mývatn
5.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fosshotel Mývatn, your gateway to nature's wonders in Iceland.
Mývatn Research Station
9.5 km
Explore the unique ecosystems and geological wonders at Mývatn Research Station, a key hub for scientific research in Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.
Kaffi Sel and Mývatn öl brewery
9.6 km
Discover the flavors of Iceland at Kaffi Sel, a charming café and brewery in the breathtaking Mývatn region offering craft beers and local delicacies.
Breidamyri Farm Apartments
26.7 km
Discover the charm of Breidamyri Farm Apartments, an authentic Icelandic stay nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Þingeyjarsveit.
Eyjardalsá
29.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Iceland on horseback at Eyjardalsá, where adventure meets tranquility in nature's embrace.
Grenjaðarstaður
30.4 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Iceland at Grenjaðarstaður Museum, featuring traditional turf houses and captivating artifacts in Húsavík.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hverfjall Volcano Trail
1.5 km
Discover the stunning Hverfjall Volcano Trail, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Iceland's volcanic terrain.
Mývatn Nature Baths
1.7 km
Relax in the soothing geothermal waters of Mývatn Nature Baths while enjoying breathtaking views of Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Stóragjá
1.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Stóragjá, a hidden cave with crystal clear blue waters nestled in the stunning Icelandic landscape.
Viewpoint from Hverfjall volcano
2.0 km
Experience the breathtaking views and unique geology of Hverfjall Volcano, a must-visit scenic spot in Iceland for nature lovers and adventurers.
Hverfjall
2.0 km
Discover Hverfjall, a stunning volcanic crater in Iceland offering breathtaking views and unique hiking experiences amidst nature's raw beauty.
Myvatn Geothermal Area
2.5 km
Explore the Myvatn Geothermal Area in Iceland, a unique destination boasting bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and stunning volcanic landscapes.
Mývatn Activity - Hike and Bike
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Mývatn with thrilling hikes and bike tours, uncovering Iceland's unique geology and vibrant wildlife.
Námafjall
3.2 km
Explore Námafjall, a stunning mountain peak in Iceland, where geothermal wonders meet breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Namaskardh
3.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Namaskardh, a geothermal mountain pass in Iceland, where nature's wonders meet serene landscapes.
Mt. Namafjall (Namaskard)
3.5 km
Explore the breathtaking geothermal landscapes of Mt. Namafjall, a must-see scenic spot in Iceland filled with vibrant colors and unique natural features.
Sulfuric smoker
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sulfuric Smoker, a stunning geothermal attraction in Reykjahlíð, Iceland, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Hverir
3.8 km
Explore Hverir, Iceland’s geothermal gem filled with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and stunning natural landscapes.
Námafjall Hverir Viewpoint
3.8 km
Discover the stunning geothermal wonders of Námaskarð Hverir Viewpoint, where vibrant colors and bubbling mud pots showcase Iceland's natural beauty.
The Fly Lands
3.9 km
Discover The Fly Lands, a breathtaking tourist attraction near Lake Mývatn, showcasing unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes in Iceland.
Lava field Dimmuborgir
4.1 km
Explore the enchanting Dimmuborgir Lava Field in Iceland, a stunning hiking area showcasing unique volcanic formations and rich folklore.
Essential places to dine
Daddi's Pizza
1.6 km
Experience the best pizza in Mývatn at Daddi's Pizza – where flavor meets comfort in every slice.
Kvika Kaffi
1.7 km
Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Kvika Kaffi in Reykjahlíð, where comfort meets tradition in every bite.
Fish and Chips Lake Mývatn
2.1 km
Discover delicious fish and chips at Lake Mývatn – a delightful culinary stop amidst stunning Icelandic scenery.
Gamli Bærinn
2.5 km
Savor traditional Icelandic cuisine at Gamli Bærinn in Reykjahlíð with stunning views of Lake Mývatn.
Mylla Restaurant
2.6 km
Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Mylla Restaurant in beautiful Myvatn – where culinary tradition meets stunning scenery.
Kaffi Borgir
4.0 km
Discover delightful Icelandic cuisine at Kaffi Borgir amidst stunning landscapes near Lake Mývatn.
Bistro Sel & Pizza
9.7 km
Discover Bistro Sel & Pizza in Mývatn - where delicious flavors meet stunning landscapes.
Eldey Restaurant
11.2 km
Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Eldey Restaurant in Mývatn, where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Dalakofinn Útibú
24.8 km
Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Dalakofinn Útibú in Laugar - where tradition meets taste.
Veggur restaurant
46.1 km
Discover the flavors of Iceland at Veggur Restaurant in Kópasker – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Beitarhúsið
49.4 km
Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Beitarhúsið – where every meal tells a story.
Grill 66
50.5 km
Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Grill 66 in Húsavík – a culinary destination renowned for its delicious sandwiches and warm hospitality.
Guesthouse Sigtún
50.8 km
Experience the charm of Húsavík with comfortable lodging at Guesthouse Sigtún, your gateway to unforgettable whale watching adventures.
Árból Guesthouse
50.9 km
Experience Icelandic hospitality at Árból Guesthouse in Húsavík - your cozy retreat amidst stunning natural beauty.
Post Plaza Guesthouse
51.0 km
Discover comfort at Post Plaza Guesthouse in Húsavík, your gateway to Iceland's breathtaking nature and unforgettable whale-watching experiences.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Handicrafts Market
2.1 km
Discover authentic Icelandic craftsmanship at the Handicrafts Market in Reykjahlíð, featuring unique handmade goods and a vibrant local culture.
Vínbúðin
2.1 km
Explore local flavors at Vínbúðin, a charming grocery store in Mývatn, offering unique Icelandic products and warm hospitality.
Vinbudin
2.1 km
Explore the unique flavors of Icelandic beverages at Vinbudin, a charming liquor store in Reykjahlíð, perfect for local spirits and gifts.
VERSLUM Supermarket
2.1 km
Discover Icelandic flavors at VERSLUM Supermarket in Reykjahlíð, the perfect place for tourists to stock up on local and international groceries.
Krambúðin Reykjahlíð
2.2 km
Explore the best of local flavors and essentials at Krambúðin Reykjahlíð, your go-to grocery store in the heart of Iceland.
Skútaís - Farm Ice Cream
9.7 km
Experience the delightful taste of Skútaís - Farm Ice Cream, where artisanal flavors meet breathtaking Icelandic landscapes.
Icewear Goðafoss
30.8 km
Discover outdoor gear and local treasures at Icewear Goðafoss, your gateway to Iceland's natural wonders.
Frumherji Húsavík
50.1 km
Discover Frumherji Húsavík: Your trusted partner for vehicle inspections in the heart of Iceland's whale watching capital.
Norðlenska
50.2 km
Discover the heart of Icelandic cuisine at Norðlenska, Húsavík's premier butcher shop offering fresh, locally-sourced meats and traditional specialties.
MTB Húsavík
50.4 km
Discover the thrill of mountain biking in Húsavík, Iceland's stunning landscapes await your adventure.
Olís Húsavík
50.5 km
Discover Olís Húsavík: Your one-stop destination for fuel, food, and convenience while exploring Iceland's enchanting landscapes.
Olís
50.5 km
Discover Olís in Húsavík: A versatile gas station, coffee shop, and restaurant, perfect for travelers exploring Iceland's beauty.
Nettó
50.5 km
Discover a wide range of grocery essentials at Nettó in Húsavík, where local flavors meet convenience for every traveler.
Grímur ehf
50.7 km
Discover reliable automotive services at Grímur ehf in Húsavík, where quality meets exceptional customer care amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Naustið
50.9 km
Experience the best of Icelandic seafood at Naustið in Húsavík, where fresh flavors meet stunning harbor views.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
2.6 km
Experience the best of Iceland at Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels, your gateway to stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures.
Laxá Hótel
11.2 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Mývatn at Laxá Hótel, where comfort meets adventure in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Árnes Lodge
36.4 km
Experience the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Árnes Lodge, where breathtaking views meet delicious local flavors.
Sushi Corner
55.6 km
Discover fresh, authentic sushi at Sushi Corner in Akureyri, where tradition meets flavor in a casual dining setting.
Eyja
55.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Eyja in Akureyri, where exquisite small plates meet an extensive wine selection for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bautinn Restaurant
55.6 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Bautinn Restaurant in Akureyri, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
North Restaurant
55.6 km
Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at North Restaurant in Akureyri, where local flavors and fresh ingredients come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Götubarinn
55.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Akureyri at Götubarinn, Iceland's favorite bar with local brews and a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
Strikið
55.6 km
Discover Strikið in Akureyri: A premier gastropub offering innovative Icelandic cuisine and breathtaking views in a stylish setting.
Mulaberg Bistro & Bar
55.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Icelandic cuisine at Mulaberg Bistro & Bar in Akureyri, where every meal is a celebration of local ingredients and hospitality.
