The inhabitants of  the Mývatn region have been enjoying healthy bathing in the hot geothermal springs ever since Iceland was settled by the Vikings. There is heat in the earth, hot springs sizzle in the fissures all around and nowhere else in Iceland does such pure steam rise from the earth, free from sulphur vapours or any other pollution.

Many historic remains and folk tales tell us about shelters built to use the steam in this area for bathing. In 1940, a new shelter was built above a steam hole already blessed by the good bishop Gudmundur as early as the 13th century which has been used for steam bathing (also called dry bathing) for centuries. 

Around 1950 a bathing hut was built at Jardbadsholar, which was used until around 1970 and always greatly enjoyed by travellers.

In the year 1996, Pétur Snæbjörnsson and Jóhann Fridrik Kristjánsson decided to revive this bathing tradition by building a steam bath in the spirit of former times, thus preserving both the culture and history of the Myvatn region. South of Jardbadsholar, a steam bathing hut was built, which became immediately popular among health seekers and as a meeting point for locals. Thus, the idea of creating perfect bathing facilities, which would revolutionize tourist services in this area continued to grow.

Creating harmony between man-made constructions and the unique nature of the area, protecting the environment and using environmentally-friendly products have always been the priorities.