Grímsfjall Hot Spring

Basic Information

GPS: 64.40688, -17.26599
Grímsfjall is located in 1732 meters above sea level.
You should only travel to the glacier and hot spring if you are experienced or are accompanied by a highly skilled mountain guide.

As per Greek cosmology, the universe comprises four elements: Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. Well, the three of them can be found in Iceland. The country is popularly known as the land of ice, fire, and water. The geothermal activities have resulted in the formation of a lot of waterfalls, lakes, and hot springs over the island. Grímsfjall hot spring is one of the many hot springs of Iceland. It is located at the Grímsfjall mountain that resides in the western part of the Vatnajökull Glacier within the Vatnajökull National Park. The hot springs in Iceland promote the bathing culture of the country and are thus popular amongst the tourists and locals.

The temperature of the thermal spring is significantly higher than the air temperature of the surrounding region. As it is located in a volcanic-prone area, it discharges groundwater that gets heated by the intrusion of magma. Although the ideal time to take a dip in the hot spring will be on a cold, snowy day. However, in Iceland, swimming in hot springs is what the tourists and locals look forward to and enjoy during all the seasons. Further, the three factors that contribute to the heat of spring are the magma chamber, rate of spring flow, and the amount of cool water that the thermal spring water source falls into.

Grímsfjall

Located on the east side of the volcano Grímsvötn, the mountain has been a victim of quite a few eruptions. The origin of the name of this mountain is still a mystery. Eystri and Vestari Svíahnúkur are the two peaks of it. Grímsfjall is located out of the beaten path and it takes time and effort to get there. Three cabins are further operated here by the Icelandic Glaciological Society. In 1957, the first hut was built following which the second one was built in 1987. These huts are further built as a base for the research expeditions and tourists.

How to get permission for staying at the Grímsfjall?

The Icelandic Glacier Research Society has built a cabin on the mountain, however, the access is limited. If a tourist wishes to stay there, then a prior agreement has to be sent. Further, one should only travel the glacier if they are experienced or are accompanied by a highly skilled mountain guide. The travelers should also check that all things will be required during the trip and should pack accordingly for this adventure.

What are the benefits of soaking in a Thermal Spring?

Before western civilization, hot spring baths were very common. The hot springs are believed to have rejuvenating power, which naturally detoxes the skin. Due to the high amount of silica, a dip in the spring shall soften the dry skin. Soaking in thermal springs also boosts the hydrostatic pressure, which further improves metabolism and increases cardiac output. Furthermore, it also mitigates ailments such as arthritis, joint pain, and fibromyalgia.

Hence, when in Iceland, soaking in the hot spring shall be on your to-do list. Some of the top hot springs of Iceland are the Blue Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths, and Secret Lagoon. The steamy and sulfur-smelling tradition is also a staple for spas, resorts, and campgrounds across the globe.