First thing’s first, this isn’t a negative post about the Blue Lagoon. I’m a big supporter of people having travel experiences that make them happy and I believe this is different from person to person. If you want to go to the Blue Lagoon, you absolutely should. However, if you think it’s not your scene, then today’s post is for you. Here you’ll find a Blue Lagoon alternative that’s just as blue, just as epic, and half the cost, as well as some other swimming alternatives.
Blue Lagoon Alternative – Mývatn Nature Baths And Other Hot Springs
Disclaimer
There are affiliate links included in this post. This means at no extra cost to you, I earn a commission if you book through the link.
The basics
Location: Mývatn
Cost: Peak season (May – Sep) – $42.50USD, off-peak season – $36USD
Hours: Peak season 9am – midnight, off-peak season 12pm – 10pm
How to book: Book your ticket online
What to bring:
- Swimsuit (you can rent this, towels, and robes if need be)
- Lightweight towel
- GoPro and I also use this compact selfie stick and tripod
- Flip flops (you can leave them on the edge of the pool)
Is the Blue Lagoon worth it?
It’s really a matter of personal preference.
The Blue Lagoon is one of the iconic and most visited tourist attractions in Iceland. It didn’t get to the level of popularity it has by being average. The luxury spa comes with a price tag though.
There are different entrance fees depending on which time of day you visit. The cheapest ticket is $55USD which is usually the last slot before closing, while a visit in the peak time will set you back about $95USD.
I have no issue spending money when I am traveling, but I have to get value for the money I am parting with.
It’s probably a fun place to go, but for me, I can’t bring myself to spend $100 to go for a swim in a country that’s so filled with geothermal pools and hot springs.
Why I preferred Mývatn Nature Baths
During my campervan trip around Iceland, I came across the Mývatn Nature Baths. These were located in north Iceland and were just as beautiful, just as blue, but half the price.
It is away from south Iceland which is the most crowded tourist area, and it’s not as famous, so the crowds are not as intense.
For me, it struck a balance of getting a unique, touristy experience as well as value for money.
When is the Blue Lagoon the better option?
I think it’d be worth visiting the Blue Lagoon if you will be staying in Reykjavik or south Iceland for your trip.
For example, if you only have a short time to visit and will be staying in south Iceland, then it’s your best bet for a touristy blue lagoon experience because Mývatn Nature Baths will be too far away to visit.
I also think the Blue Lagoon would be great to visit before or after your flight because it’s only 20 minutes from the airport. If you have a long travel day and want to relax before the trip, then this would be a great option.
What to expect at Mývatn Nature Baths
Soaking in the thermal pools at Mývatn Nature Baths while watching the sunset with snow falling around me was one of the most magical experiences I had while driving the ring road.
After you check-in, you’ll head to the change room. There are lockers for your belongings, and, as with all pools in Iceland, you will need to shower before you swim.
Once you are ready, you’ll walk outside to the outdoor lagoons and soak in the blue water. It’s a big swimming area with a couple of pools to choose from as well as steam baths.
If you purchase a drinks ticket when you check-in, then you will be able to order drinks from the roaming stewards while you stay in the water.
Other Blue Lagoon alternatives in Iceland
Here are some other Blue Lagoon alternatives.
While these are similar in the sense that they are outdoor swimming areas, they don’t have that mesmerizing blue color that the Blue Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Baths do.
Local geothermal pools in Iceland
There are local geothermal pools located all over Iceland. These are not ‘Instagrammable’ and you won’t be able to take a camera with you, which reminds me of the quote “if you couldn’t take a camera, would you still travel?”
However, if you want to have an authentic, local experience then I highly recommend visiting the local pools.
They only cost around $10USD and you can soak in outdoor pools of different temperatures.
Here is my full guide on the local pools in Iceland and pool etiquette.
Outdoor hot springs
If you prefer wild outdoor swimming, you could visit an outdoor hot spring.
Hrunalaug is an outdoor pool located about 90 minutes from Reykjavik. There is a fee of $10USD cash to swim here because it is on private property.
Reykjadalur Hot Spring is about 30 minutes from Reykjavik and involves a hike to get there. Once there, you can swim in the warm river water.
Landbrotalaug Hot Pot is a small pond about 90 minutes from Reykjavik. It’s only a small spot so try to visit in the morning, evening if you can.
Seljavallalaug
Seljavallalaug is another free outdoor pool with a short hike to get there.
It has mixed reviews and seems to have suffered at the hands of too many visitors and not enough structure in place to deal with them.
Secret Lagoon
If you want to have a touristy experience but the Blue Lagoon is outside your budget, the Secret Lagoon is a good alternative.
It is located about 90 minutes from Reykjavik and costs $24USD to visit.
Camping with a geothermal pool
I wrote about this in my ring road itinerary, but this campground was pure magic because of the outdoor geothermal pools on site.
Soaking in these after the day exploring was pure magic and you cannot beat the serenity of the location.
View this post on Instagram
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, a successful travel experience is doing the things you want to experience during your adventures.
If you love the Blue Lagoon, that’s awesome. If you prefer other places, then visit them.
There’s no wrong answer!
But I do hope this has been able to at least give you some alternative options if you had been thinking the Blue Lagoon isn’t your scene (or in your budget).
For more information:
Visit the Myvatn Nature Baths website
Other guides to help you plan a visit to Iceland
How To Pack For The Ring Road In Iceland With Carry On Luggage Only
A Detailed Guide On Cheap And Free Things To Do In Reykjavik
If you plan to drive the ring road in Iceland, I hope you’ll be able to experience a relaxing visit to this Blue Lagoon alternative.
If you found it useful, return the favor by sharing it or following me on Instagram!
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