Geothermal
Active
Steam vents, hot springs, and heated ground throughout the valley
Reykjadalur North (Þingeyjarsýslu): Geothermal Valley at Mývatn
Reykjadalur Þingeyjarsýslu
Updated February 5, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
A geothermal valley in the Mývatn area (distinct from the southern Reykjadalur). Home to the village of Laugar, which serves as the administrative center for Þingeyjarsveit district. Named for its steam and hot spring activity.
Region
Northeast Iceland
Best time: Year-round
Reykjadalur — 'Steam Valley' — is a geothermal valley in the Mývatn area of Northeast Iceland, not to be confused with the more tourist-famous Reykjadalur near Hveragerði in the south. This northern Reykjadalur is home to the village of Laugar, which serves as the administrative center for the Þingeyjarsveit district. The valley is characterized by rising steam, hot springs, and geothermally heated ground, with the natural heat harnessed for local heating and the village swimming pool.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-05
Reykjadalur North is accessible year-round via Route 1 in the Mývatn area. Exercise caution near geothermal areas — hot ground and boiling water can cause serious burns. Stay on marked paths near geothermal features.
Sources to check
Village of Laugar
Services
Administrative center with pool, school, and accommodation
Mývatn Area
Connected
Part of Northeast Iceland's premier natural attraction zone
Best Season
Year-round
Geothermal features impressive in every season
Volcanic
Active Zone
Part of the Krafla volcanic system — fumaroles and steam vents dot the landscape
Photography
Surreal Colors
Mineral deposits create vivid yellows, oranges, and blues in the geothermal terrain
Key Highlights
Geothermal Activity
Steam vents and hot springs rising from the valley floor
Village of Laugar
Small community with geothermally heated swimming pool and services
Þingeyjarsveit Center
Administrative hub for one of Northeast Iceland's largest municipalities
Mývatn Proximity
Close to Lake Mývatn, Krafla, Dimmuborgir, and Mývatn Nature Baths
Distinct from Southern Reykjadalur
A different geothermal valley from the famous hot river near Hveragerði
Year-Round Access
Accessible via Route 1 in all seasons with local services available
How to Get There
- Located near Laugar village in the Mývatn area of Northeast Iceland
- Access via Route 845 from Route 1, about 15 km south of Lake Mývatn
- Laugar has a swimming pool, school, and basic services
- About 100 km (1.5 hours) east of Akureyri via Route 1
- Combine with Lake Mývatn, Krafla, and Dettifoss visits for a complete Northeast Iceland trip
Best Time to Visit
- June-August: Geothermal areas most comfortable to explore, midnight sun, 8-15°C
- July: Peak summer — best weather, all facilities in Laugar fully operational
- September: Northern lights season begins, dramatic steam from geothermal fields
- Year-round: The valley and village are accessible via Route 1 in all seasons
- Winter: Geothermal steam creates surreal landscapes against snow-covered terrain
Planning help
Reykjadalur North FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.