Swim in a pool in winter, surrounded by snow-clad mountains at -5 degree! Awesome! A must on every travellers to-do list

How does taking a dip in a pool of water sound like? That too in winter! An act of bravery, surely. And, how does taking a swim surrounded by volcanoes and snow-clad mountains at -5 degrees sound like? Divine? For the adventurous type, this will rank as being amongst the top extreme experiences of them all! 

However, for the rest of us, it should not act as a deterrent, it is not a mission impossible or an act of a daredevilry. Why? Because it is all set in a phenomenal country, Iceland and it offers a surreal way to spend a cold winter's day and no, you will not freeze to death as the dip and the swim is in a geothermal pool called Myvatn Nature Baths. 

Iceland is a magical land of ice and fire. The bounty of geothermal energy with glaciers dotted all over this volcanic island enriches the country with numerous hot spring pools. While some of the small pools have free access, the big ones are commercialized for the tourists. These are vast, well-maintained with amenities like sauna, spa, bar, and restaurants.

The most popular geothermal pools are the Blue Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths. 

However, most of the tourists find the Blue Lagoon much hyped. Because it's closer to the airport at Keflavik as well as the capital Reykjavik, hence more popular, crowded, expensive, commercial and touristy. One has to book this tour well in advance. Last minute plans generally don’t work at the Lagoon. 

Whereas Myvatn Nature Baths in the North of Iceland is a 7-10 hour drive from the airport depending on the weather conditions. But this pool feels more personal and is much more picturesque and serene. Situated in an area where volcanoes are active, a visit to this pool will add another tourist spot to your list, Krafla lava fields. The famous Hverfjall Crater is just 5 minute drive from the baths. If you plan to drive around the scenic Iceland's ring road, then Nature Baths is a good option and the Blue Lagoon can be easily skipped.

Also, comparatively the blue water at this geothermal pool has aplenty of minerals, which can do wonders to for the skin and also helps with respiratory issues.

WATCH Zee Business TV LIVE Streaming Online -

And if you are lucky enough, you might experience the famous Northern lights on a dark winter's day which will further make your swim a lifetime memory. 

How expensive is this experience? 

An adult single ticket is close to Rs 2500 and can go up to Rs 3000 depending on the season. It’s cheaper in the winters and goes up in summers. Entry of children accompanied by parents up to the age of 12 is free. It's advisable to carry your own towel, swim suit and bathrobe, otherwise you can rent the same.

Towel- 500 approx

Swim Suit- 500 approx

Bathrobe- 1000 approx

(All prices are in INR)