Iceland, often called the Land of Fire and Ice, is a country of dramatic landscapes where glaciers and volcanoes coexist. But amidst this raw natural beauty, there is also a treasure trove of geothermal activity that offers visitors a unique opportunity to unwind in hot springs and thermal pools. These natural and man-made geothermal baths are not just places to relax but are deeply embedded in Icelandic culture, providing a perfect way to experience the country’s natural beauty and unwind after exploring its rugged terrain.
In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through some of Iceland’s most iconic and lesser-known hot springs and thermal pools. Whether you’re seeking luxury, solitude, or a rustic experience, Iceland has something for everyone.
1. The Blue Lagoon: Iceland’s Most Iconic Geothermal Spa
Location: Grindavík, Reykjanes Peninsula
How to Get There: The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located about 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport and 50 minutes from Reykjavík. It’s easily accessible by car, and there are also regular shuttle buses from both the airport and Reykjavík.
The Blue Lagoon is perhaps the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland, and for a good reason. This iconic location offers a surreal experience where you can soak in milky-blue, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by a stunning volcanic landscape. The lagoon’s water, rich in silica and algae, is reputed to have healing properties, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and skin treatments.
Booking and Experience:
Advance booking is highly recommended, as the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions and can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. You can book your visit through the official Blue Lagoon website, where you’ll find various packages ranging from basic entry to more luxurious experiences that include access to the Retreat Spa, private changing rooms, and a dining experience at the on-site restaurant, Lava.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with modern facilities that include spacious changing rooms, a swim-up bar, and the iconic silica mud masks that are available at stations around the lagoon. The temperature of the water is a constant and comforting 37-39°C (98-102°F), making it the perfect place to relax year-round.
My Experience:
Soaking in the Blue Lagoon felt like stepping into another world. The contrast between the warm, soothing water and the crisp Icelandic air was invigorating. I indulged in the silica mud mask, which left my skin feeling refreshed and soft. Despite its popularity, the lagoon’s vast size made it easy to find a peaceful spot to relax. The swim-up bar offered a selection of Icelandic beers and smoothies, which were a delightful treat as I floated around the lagoon. Overall, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit, especially if you’re looking for a luxurious and unforgettable geothermal experience.
2. Mývatn Nature Baths: The North’s Tranquil Retreat
Location: Mývatn, North Iceland
How to Get There: Mývatn Nature Baths are located in North Iceland, approximately 6 hours from Reykjavík by car or a short flight to Akureyri followed by a 90-minute drive.
Located in the stunning volcanic landscape of North Iceland, the Mývatn Nature Baths offer a more serene and less commercial experience compared to the Blue Lagoon. The baths are situated near Lake Mývatn, an area known for its otherworldly scenery, including lava fields, pseudocraters, and steaming fumaroles.
Booking and Experience:
While the Mývatn Nature Baths are not as crowded as the Blue Lagoon, it’s still advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months. You can do so on their official website. The entry fee is reasonably priced, and there are options to rent towels, swimsuits, and robes if needed.
The water in the baths is rich in minerals, particularly sulfur, and maintains a temperature of around 36-40°C (97-104°F). The facility also includes steam baths that are housed in natural caves, where you can experience the geothermal steam rising directly from the earth.
What to Expect:
The Mývatn Nature Baths offer a rustic, authentic experience with stunning views over the Mývatn area. The baths are smaller than the Blue Lagoon, which adds to their charm and tranquility. The mineral-rich water has a slightly different texture and scent due to the sulfur content, which gives it a natural, earthy smell that is surprisingly pleasant. The views from the baths are nothing short of spectacular, especially at sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the surrounding volcanic landscape. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during the winter months.
3. Secret Lagoon: Iceland’s Oldest Natural Pool
Location: Flúðir, South Iceland
How to Get There: The Secret Lagoon is located in the small village of Flúðir, about a 90-minute drive from Reykjavík. It’s easily accessible by car, and it’s also a popular stop on Golden Circle tours.
For those looking to experience a hot spring with a more authentic and historical vibe, the Secret Lagoon, or Gamla Laugin, is the place to be. Established in 1891, it is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool and has retained much of its original charm. Unlike the more developed spas, the Secret Lagoon offers a more natural setting where you can soak in warm waters surrounded by lush vegetation and bubbling geothermal features.
Booking and Experience:
The Secret Lagoon is smaller and less commercial than some of Iceland’s other geothermal pools, but it’s still advisable to book in advance, particularly if you’re visiting as part of a tour. Tickets can be purchased on their official website, and the entry fee is quite affordable.
The pool itself is fed by natural hot springs, and the water temperature remains a comfortable 38-40°C (100-104°F) throughout the year. The surrounding area is dotted with geothermal features, including small geysers that erupt every few minutes, adding to the ambiance.
What to Expect:
The Secret Lagoon offers a more down-to-earth, rustic experience compared to some of Iceland’s more polished spas. The facilities are simple but sufficient, with clean changing rooms and showers. The lagoon itself is surrounded by natural rocks and vegetation, which gives it a more secluded and intimate feel. The small geysers that bubble up around the pool add a touch of magic to the experience, reminding you that you’re soaking in a truly geothermal environment. I particularly enjoyed the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, which made it easy to relax and connect with nature. It’s a fantastic option for those who prefer a more authentic and less commercial hot spring experience.
4. Landmannalaugar: A Hiker’s Hot Spring Paradise
Location: Highlands of Iceland
How to Get There: Landmannalaugar is located in the remote highlands of Iceland, and reaching it requires a 4×4 vehicle. It’s about a 3-4 hour drive from Reykjavík, with the last stretch of the journey taking you across rugged, unpaved roads.
Landmannalaugar is not just a hot spring; it’s an entire geothermal area set amidst one of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains, this natural hot spring offers a rewarding soak after a day of hiking through some of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery.
What Makes It Special:
Unlike the more accessible hot springs, Landmannalaugar is truly off the beaten path. The journey to get there is an adventure in itself, involving crossing rivers and navigating rough terrain. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by a surreal landscape of multicolored mountains, lava fields, and steaming geothermal vents. The hot spring is natural and unmanicured, with no modern facilities, which adds to its rugged charm.
The Hiking Experience:
Landmannalaugar is a popular base for hiking, particularly the Laugavegur Trail, which is considered one of the best treks in the world. The trail offers a variety of routes, ranging from short hikes to multi-day treks, all of which showcase the area’s stunning geology. After a day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like sinking into the warm waters of the natural hot spring, surrounded by the beauty of Iceland’s highlands.
What to Expect:
Because of its remote location, Landmannalaugar offers a more primitive experience compared to the other hot springs on this list. The changing facilities are basic, and there’s no option to rent towels or swimsuits, so come prepared. However, the rustic setting is part of what makes it so special. The water temperature varies depending on where you sit in the spring, with some spots being much hotter than others. The atmosphere is peaceful and communal, as you’re likely to share the spring with fellow hikers and adventurers. If you’re looking for a hot spring experience that’s truly off the beaten path, Landmannalaugar is the place to go.
5. Hrunalaug: A Secluded Gem
Location: Near Flúðir, South Iceland
How to Get There: Hrunalaug is located just outside the village of Flúðir, about a 90-minute drive from Reykjavík. The hot spring is situated on private land, and while the road is accessible by most vehicles, it’s still recommended to drive carefully, especially in winter conditions.
Hrunalaug is a small, secluded hot spring that offers an intimate and peaceful experience. It’s a hidden gem, known only to those who seek out the less crowded and more authentic geothermal spots in Iceland. The spring is located on private land, but the owners have graciously allowed visitors to use it, asking only that they respect the area and leave it as they found it.
What Makes It Special:
Hrunalaug is a tiny, natural hot spring
with a rustic feel. The spring is fed by a small stream of hot water that fills a stone-walled pool, providing a warm and soothing soak. The surrounding area is peaceful and picturesque, with grassy fields and views of the mountains in the distance. The spring is small, accommodating only a few people at a time, which adds to its charm and tranquility.
What to Expect:
Due to its size and secluded location, Hrunalaug offers a very personal and quiet experience. There are no facilities here, so you’ll need to come prepared with your own towel and swimsuit. The water temperature is comfortably warm, and the setting is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more intimate connection with Iceland’s natural beauty. The atmosphere is one of simplicity and serenity, making it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.
Nearby Attractions:
Hrunalaug is located close to the Secret Lagoon, so you can easily visit both in one day. The village of Flúðir is also nearby, offering a few restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat after your soak. If you’re exploring the Golden Circle, Hrunalaug is a convenient stop on your way to or from the other attractions in the area.
6. Reykjadalur: The Hot River Valley
Location: Hveragerði, South Iceland
How to Get There: Reykjadalur is located near the town of Hveragerði, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík by car. From Hveragerði, it’s a 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) hike to reach the hot springs in the valley.
Reykjadalur, meaning “Steam Valley,” is a unique geothermal area where a warm river flows through a picturesque valley, offering visitors the chance to soak in natural hot water surrounded by stunning scenery. The hike to the hot river is a highlight in itself, taking you through a landscape of steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and rolling hills.
The Hike:
The trail to Reykjadalur is well-marked and relatively easy, with a gradual incline that makes it accessible to most visitors. The hike takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on your pace, and the views along the way are breathtaking. As you approach the valley, you’ll see steam rising from the ground, signaling that you’re getting close to the hot river.
The Soak:
Once you reach the hot river, you can choose your spot to soak, as the temperature of the water varies depending on where you sit. The closer you are to the source, the hotter the water, so it’s easy to find a spot that’s just right for you. The river is surrounded by grassy hills and dotted with rocks, creating a natural and peaceful setting.
What to Expect:
Reykjadalur is one of the most popular hot springs in Iceland, so it can get busy, especially on weekends and during the summer months. However, the valley is large enough that you can usually find a spot to yourself if you’re willing to walk a bit further upstream. There are no changing facilities, so be prepared to change in the open, and remember to bring a towel and swimsuit.
Nearby Attractions:
Hveragerði, the town closest to Reykjadalur, is known for its geothermal activity and is home to several greenhouses and hot springs. You can explore the town’s geothermal park, where you can see geysers, hot springs, and even bake bread using geothermal heat. The town also offers several cafes and restaurants where you can relax after your hike.
Iceland is a country where nature takes center stage, and there’s no better way to experience its raw beauty than by soaking in one of its many hot springs and thermal pools. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a quiet spot to relax, Iceland’s geothermal baths offer something for everyone. From the iconic Blue Lagoon to the secluded Hrunalaug, each hot spring provides a unique experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and connected to the earth.
