Iceland Hot Springs: 21 Best Spots For A Blissful Adventure
Iceland hot springs venting steam as purple sky reflects light into stream.
Iceland hot springs are an essential part of the travel experience for many visitors to the land of ice and fire. Indeed, a dip in an outdoor hot spring is a favorite activity for many Icelanders, regardless of the weather.
Iceland hot springs provide a memorable travel experience. Whether you want to explore the healing benefits of the mineral-rich waters, revel in the beauty of nature or relax and rejuvenate mind and body, immersion into warm and therapeutic Iceland hot springs is not to be missed.
Can you imagine what an amazing experience it must be to immerse yourself into a steamy hot springs surrounded by the beauty of the spectacular Icelandic landscape?
Doing so under the awesome beauty of the midnight sun must be like living in a dream.
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With an average water temperature of between 36°C-40°C (97°F-104°F) you can enjoy the benefits to mind, body and soul of a lovely soak as you travel around this incredible country.
I photographed the lovely stream and nearby fumaroles at the top of this post while driving around Iceland, the land of ice and fire. The photo was made, in the early hours of the morning, as geysers expelled steam from beneath the earth.
The steam was colored by the light, reflecting from the clouds above, back down onto the surface of the stream. The tiny yellow flowers add extra color and a sense of positivity to what might otherwise be quite an eerie scene.
As I say, the photo was made in the early hours of the morning. However, it was summer in Iceland, so the color of the light is mostly due to the setting sun and some rain clouds beginning to form.
The photo, which contains a lovely combination of color, light and texture, was made on a full frame Canon camera with a Canon 24-105mm f/4 L series lens.
The lens’s focal length was set to 24 mm and the exposure time was 2 seconds at f/11, with the camera’s sensitivity set to ISO 100.
The slow shutter speed allowed the water and clouds to render relatively smooth, which adds to the dreamy appearance of the image.
What Are Hot Springs?
Hot springs are bodies of water, heated by geothermal energy, that are hotter than the earth surrounding it.
The temperature of the water in most hot springs will be a minimum of 38°C / 100°F. However, some hot springs are significantly hotter and, for your own safety, it’s important to be aware of this fact prior to taking a dip.
The factors determining the actual heat of any one particular hot spring can be summarized as follows:
The depth of the magna chamber, which is the actual underground depth from which the heat is supplied.
The rate at which the water flows into and around a hot spring.
The degree to which any above ground water is able to cool the temperature of the incoming hot water.
Why Does Iceland Have So Many Hot Springs?
With over 30 active volcanoes, Iceland has an almost endless supply of geothermal energy.
While natural hot springs are located all around Iceland, most are located in the west and south west of the country. That’s primarily due to very active geothermal activity in those regions.
Nonetheless, with around 250 geothermal areas producing hot springs, there’s quite possibly a niche guide book just calling out to be written.
Mind you, such a project would requite a laser focus, an extreme level of determination and a sizeable budget. And you wouldn’t be undertaking such a project as a way to make money.
After all, the population of Iceland is only around 398,000 people. Yes, there’s lots of international tourists that you could pitch your project to. All I’m saying is that, given the cost of travel and accomodation in Iceland, such a project would best be considered a labor of love.
Still, if you’ve looking to add an abundance of bliss into your life this might be just the project for you. If I was fortunate enough to live in Iceland for a year, I’d probably do it.
But why are there so many hot springs in Iceland?
Iceland just happens to be the nation where two tectonic plates, the North American plate and the Eurasian plate, separate from each other.
The ridge where these two plates butt up against each other is called the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The divergence of the plates is what causes molten rock, called magma, to rise up and erupt as lava.
It’s common for volcanic activity to occur along tectonic rifts. As a consequence of this volcanic activity, water is heated underground and referred to as geothermal activity.
Hot springs are a result of pressure from geothermal activity pushing hot water, in the form of steam, up through the surface of the earth and into the air above.
What Are the Health Benefits of Soaking in Hot Springs?
The mineral-rich waters of a hot spring offer relaxation, rejuvenation and provide benefits for a variety of ailments and conditions.
What Are the Different Minerals Found in Hot Springs?
It’s the mineral-rich content of most hot springs that makes them so beneficial to mind and body.
Some of those minerals, commonly found in Iceland hot springs, include the following:
Sulphur, which is beneficial to respiratory problems and dermatitis.
Magnesium, which is good for the skin and clearing acne.
Potassium, which is beneficial in removing toxins from the body.
Calcium, known to increase oxygen flow and improve blood circulation.
Sodium, which can reduce joint pain and inflammation and help to regulate the lymphatic system.
Benefits to Blood Circulation
Immersion in warm water is known to promote a more relaxed state of mind. In doing so, a reduction in blood pressure can be achieved.
While soaking in hot water is great for lowering blood pressure and relieving stress, the minerals in hot springs, such as calcium and sodium bicarbonate, are great for improving blood circulation.
Eczema
I’ve suffered from eczema since my teenage years. Over the years I’ve tried all manner of lotions and potions that, while keeping the condition relatively in check, have been completely unsuccessful at curing this nasty ailment.
Most recently I’ve made a number of pretty dramatic changes to my daily diet to reduce inflammation, improve sleep patterns and reduce stress.
It’s very early days, but I can tell you that, in just a few weeks, I’ve lost 10 kg and really hope that, over time, my eczema and a range of allergies will no longer be a part of my life.
While hot springs aren’t credited with curing eczema, there’s a lot of anecdotal evidence that the mineral-rich waters of a hot spring will bring soothing relief to folks suffering from this very debilitation condition.
Body Aches and Pains
Folks with arthritis, swollen joints, muscle pain and a range of other muscle or bone complaints may well find relief in the waters of a natural hot spring.
I know I did.
Iceland Hot Springs Admission Price
You can expect to pay 4700 ISK (Icelandic Krona), around USD $40, for adult admission to one of the commercial geothermal baths around the country.
Fortunately, as well as commercial enterprises, there are also plenty of natural hot springs around Iceland where entry is free.
Iceland Hot Springs Beauty Tip
I’m reliably informed that, if you want to make the most of your dip in an Icelandic hot spring, it's best to remove any makeup you might otherwise be wearing.
That goes for you to guys.
This will allow your skin to better benefit from the silica and algae within the steaming waters of the hot springs.
It’s good to be aware that, while not harmful to hair, silica can make your hair stiff and difficult to manage.
With that in mind, the folks at the Blue Lagoon recommend that bathers apply conditioner to their hair before entering a sea-water hot spring.
It’s also recommended to leave conditioner in your hair throughout your stay at the Blue Lagoon.
Hot Springs Near Reykjavík
The good news is that, if your time is limited, you won’t have to travel far from the capital, Reykjavík, for a therapeutic and relaxing soak in one of Iceland’s numerous hot springs.
Hot springs in and around the Reykjavík area include the following:
Kvika Hot Spring Footbath
Blue Lagoon Spa
The Secret Lagoon
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
Laugardalslaug Swimming Pool
Sky Lagoon
1. Kvika Hot Spring Footbath
The Kvika Hot Spring Footbath is located near the Grótta Lighthouse, only about 5 km out of Reykjavík. It’s a great place to soak your feet while watching the sunset.
For someone who’s never tried out a hot spring before, this is a very simple and easy introduction. Indeed, all you need to do is to remove your shoes and socks, prior to dipping your feet into the warm waters of this tiny little hot spring.
2. Iceland’s Famous Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon Spa is Iceland's most famous hot springs and arguably the country’s most popular tourist destination.
This large, commercial operation is known around the world and is a popular place on the itinerary for most visitors to Iceland.
The Blue Lagoon Spa is easy to find, located just off the highway between Keflavík International Airport and the nations capital, Reykjavík.
So what is it that makes the Blue Lagoon special?
The Blue Lagoon is a man-made structure, consisting of a series of geothermal pools set amongst a surreal black lava rubble landscape.
The waters of the vividly colored Blue Lagoon are actually waste water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant.
The Blue Lagoon contains waters that are rich in salts and algae. What’s more, the fine white silt is said to be a cure for all manner of skin conditions.
It’s true the experience is quite expensive. However, given the extensive bathing and swimming areas, variety of grottoes, steam rooms and a restaurant it's easy to spend an entire day at the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon Water Temperature
The water temperature of the Blue Lagoon averages a very pleasant 37°-39°C / 99°-102°F.
It’s an amazing, and very restful experience, soaking for hours in the warm water while taking in the surreal views surrounding Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.
3. Gamla Laugin (The Secret Lagoon), Iceland
If you're looking for a less highly touristed alternative to the Blue Lagoon, Gamla Laugin, or the Secret Lagoon, is a great option worth considering.
Located at Flúdir in South Iceland, the stunning Secret Lagoon is only 98 km or 60 miles from Reykjavik.
Created in 1891, and one of the oldest swimming spots in Iceland, the Secret Lagoon is a geothermal pool with a spouting geyser that erupts every few minutes.
The complex includes showers and a bar, with plenty of dinning options available nearby.
Be aware that, for reasons of hygiene, everyone is required to completely disrobe and shower prior to entering Gamla Laugin.
The Secret Lagoon is a popular place so, to avoid missing out on experiencing this wonderful site, book your tickets in advance.
As an alternate to the famous Blue Lagoon, some folks add a visit to the Secret Lagoon into their day touring the famous Golden Circle.
4. Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach, Reykjavík
You’ll find Nauthólsvík located on a small, white sandy beach in Reykjavík.
Featuring two hot tubs, that operate at a temperature of 38°C / 100°F, Nauthólsvik also offers a long, shallow pool that’s heated with seawater.
5. Laugardalslaug, Reykjavík
Iceland's largest and best equipped swimming complex, Laugardalslaug is a lovely place with loads of fun options for the entire family.
Here’s what you can expect to discover at Laugardalslaug.
50-metre outdoor pool
Accessible pool
Children’s pool
Steam Bath
Hot tubs
Cold tub
Whirlpool bath
Waterslide
Saltwater tub
Beach volleyball
Wading pool
Cost of Swimming at Laugardalslaug
Children, from 0-15 years, free admission
Youth, ages 16 and 17, cost Icelandic Króna 210 / USD $1:60 approx.
Adults, 18 years and older, cost Icelandic Króna 1,380 / USD $10:30 approx.
6. Sky Lagoon
The Sky Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in the town of Kópavogur, about a 15 km drive from Reykjavík’s city centre.
Offering dramatic views across the North Atlantic Ocean, and a range of experiences including Ritual, a seven-step experience guiding participants through the history of Icelandic bathing culture.
The Sky Lagoon hot spring is known for its high iron content, which is not a mineral that most hot springs have in abundance. It’s said to be particularly helpful for folks who suffer from anemia, which is a condition described as a lack of red blood cells that results in an unhealthy, pale appearance and weariness.
You’ll find the Sky Lagoon at the following address:
Vesturvör 44-48
Kópavogur
Iceland
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South Iceland Hot Springs
Hot springs in the south of Iceland include the following:
Reykjadalur Steam Valley
Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
Fontana Geothermal Baths
Leirubakki Hot Spring
7. Reykjadalur Steam Valley
A river of mud pits and hot springs awaits you at Reykjadalur Steam Valley.
Located just 45 km from Reykjavík, the stunning natural setting has elevated Reykjadalur onto my bucket list for my next Iceland travel adventure.
Local Iceland blogger, Regina Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir, has created an excellent post with lots of descriptive photos on Reykjadalur Steam Valley which I’d recommend for anyone considering a visit.
8. Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
Located on the south coast of Iceland, between Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Seljavallalaug is an artificially created swimming pool heated by a natural hot spring.
Be aware that the temperature in this particular hot spring is usually between 20°C / 68°F and 30°C / 86°F. That’s not all that hot, which is why a number of people refer to the experience of soaking at Seljavallalaug to be more like a heated pool than an actual hot spring.
I haven’t visited the site, but I’ve read that it’s only cleaned once a year. As a result the pool builds up green algae and the changing rooms soon become very dirty.
If you’re lucky you’ll get to visit just after the yearly clean. If not, then you might well be disappointed, which is a pity given Seljavallalaug’s stunning location.
9. Fontana Geothermal Baths
You’ll find the Fontana Geothermal Baths in the town of Laugarvatn, between Þingvellir and the Golden Circle Geysirs.
The site makes use of the natural waters from the areas’s hot springs and features the following:
Natural steam baths, providing a high humidity environment with temperatures between 40°C / 104°F and 50°C / 122°F, depending upon the weather and the actual temperature of the hot spring at the time.
Mineral pools of different depth, size and temperature named Lauga and Saela.
A hot tub called Viska that offers visitors a panoramic view of the natural surroundings.
Traditional Finnish sauna called Ylur, offering a lower humidity alternative to the steam room and an operating temperature of between 80°C / 176°F and 90°C / 194°F.
Shallow bathing pools that seem ideal for children.
You’ll find the Fontana Geothermal Baths at the following address:
Hverabraut 1
840 Laugarvatn
Iceland
Tel: +354 486 1400
10. Leirubakki Hot Spring, Hekla
You'll find the tiny, circular and sunken Leirubakki geothermal pool on a farm of the same name, in the foothills of the 1500 m high Hekla volcano.
In Icelandic mythology, the steaming and eerie Hekla crater was once believed to be the gateway to Hell.
These days you can enjoy a soak in the tepid waters of Leirubakki, while enjoying the view of the active, steaming Hekla volcano.
West Iceland Hot Springs
Hot springs in the south of Iceland include the following:
Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Landrotalaug Hot Spring
Snorralaug Hot Pool
11. Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Situated on route 47, right by the North Atlantic Ocean, in Hvalfjördur or Whale Fjord, in west Iceland. You’ll be able to reach Hvammsvik Hot Springs after about a 45 minute drive from Reykjavík.
Set between sea and land, Hvammsvik offers eight natural hot springs within a wonderful natural environment. There’s also a steam bath, bistro and bar on site.
12. Landrotalaug Hot Spring
If you find yourself exploring the fantastic Snaefellsnes Peninsula then a visit to the Landrotalaug Hot Spring would be an interesting addition to your tour.
This tiny and secluded hot spring, set in beautiful surroundings on private land, looks like a great place for a peaceful dip.
Actually there’s only room for a few people, so if you’re looking for a more private, intimate hot spring experience, Landrotalaug Hot Spring might be just the place.
It’s an easy 70 mile (115 km) drive from Reykjavik to the Landbrotalaug hot spring, and a good point from which to embark or conclude your exploration of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
13. Snorralaug Hot Pool, Reykholt
Located about one and a half hours drive northwest of Reykjavík, the Snorralaug Hot Pool is situated on the site where Icelandic politican and literary giant, Snorri Sturluson, was murdered in the 13th Century.
Sturluson is believed to have authored the Eddas, containing much of what is known of Nordic mythology, and several Icelandic sagas.
Not only is Snorralaug an historically important site, it may also be Iceland’s oldest hot springs.
North Iceland Hot Springs
Hot springs in north Iceland include the following:
Myvatn Nature Baths
Hverir Hot Springs
Jarðböðinn Nature Baths
Grjótagjá Cave
Grettislaug Geothermal Pool
14. Myvatn Nature Baths
Referred to as the Blue Lagoon of the North, the Myvatn Nature Baths is a man made lagoon with mineral-rich, milky blue waters that are similar in appearance to the famous Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík.
The Mývatn Nature Baths is one of Iceland’s most commercial natural hot springs. It’s really more like a spa, offering a relaxing lagoon and steam baths, as well as an onsite cafe and bar.
Although it’s not required, the folks at Mývatn Nature Baths suggests you pre-book your tickets, especially if you are visiting with a group of ten or more people.
Although the price of admission includes a locker and an entire day of admission to the lagoon, I’m told most people only spend about 90 minutes bathing in the waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths.
15. Hverir Hot Springs
If you have the time, making a visit to Hverir, located a short distance from the Myvatn Nature Baths, is well worth the effort.
Hverir is a hot springs area with boiling mud pots and fumaroles near Námafjall mountain.
What’s A Fumarole?
A fumarole is a vent from which steam and volcanic gases, such as carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen chloride escape into the atmosphere.
The steam escaping from a fumarole results from superheated water condensing, due to a drop in pressure, as it emerges from the ground.
16. Jarðböðinn Nature Baths, Myvatn
Are you planning to visit Iceland in winter?
The Jarðböðinn Nature Baths are a great place for a dip for anyone visiting the Myvatn area.
Located in the hills, above the northern town of Myvatn, the isolated location of the Jarðböðinn Nature Baths should make it a great place from which to view and photograph the northern lights.
What’s more, from the edge of the pool, there are views down onto the lovely Myvatn volcanic lake.
If you do manage to visit the Jarðböðinn Nature Baths, you can expect to find the following:
Mud pits
Volcanic cones
Steaming lava
An underground bakery that's heated by natural jets of steam
It's no wonder the Jarðböðinn Nature Baths are considered by many to be one the best hot springs in all of Iceland.
17. Grjótagjá Cave, Myvatn
The small, but gorgeous Grjótagjá Cave is located near the town of Myvatn in the north of Iceland. Famous for the beauty of the thermal spring inside, the cave functioned as a home for local outlaw Jón Markússon who sheltered in the cave and bathed in the waters of the thermal spring.
Grjótagjá Cave became a popular bathing site for local Icelanders up until the 1970’s, when a nearby eruption caused the waters to heat to a temperature unsafe for bathing.
It’s now prohibited to bath here.
Please understand that, while I’ve included Grjótagjá Cave on my list of Iceland’s best hot springs, I’ve done so for the purposes of sightseeing and photography.
Most recently, Grjótagjá Cave became known to millions of people around the world through its appearance in the epic TV show, Game Of Thrones.
During episode 5, Kissed by Fire, in Season 3 of GOT show favorites, Jon Snow and Ygritte, made love by the waters of Grjótagjá Cave.
Apparently, filming restrictions meant that much of the scene had to be filmed in a studio. Nonetheless, this beautiful site did appear in this much loved episode of Game Of Thrones.
I remember the first time I saw the episode I was stunned by the beauty of the cave.
Sadly, Grjótagjá Cave, which is privately owned, has been closed to visitors several times over recent years. Closure of the site resulted from rubbish, bodily waste and toilet paper being found inside the cave.
The waters of the pool have also been unnecessarily fouled by soap, shampoo and other substances.
It would be a terrible shame if the landowners decided to close this site to the general public. Please respect the natural beauty of the location and discourage any suspicious activity you see occurring at Grjótagjá Cave.
You might find it important to know that, with light only entering the site through a narrow entrance, this steamy site may prove to be claustrophobic for some people.
However, if you're not prone to claustrophobia, you'll most likely find Grjótagjá to be a visually interesting location.
Needless to say, many Game Of Thrones fans will want to add Grjótagjá Cave near the town of Myvatn onto their Iceland travel itinerary.
18. Grettislaug Geothermal Pool
The Grettislaug Geothermal Pool is set on a remote stretch of land, close to the shoreline, on the North coast of Iceland.
According to Icelandic sagas, the viking outlaw, Grettir, is said to have revived himself in these hot springs after swimming to the mainland from the island of Drangey, where he’d been exiled.
The escape from Drangey, back to the mainland, involved a four mile, icy cold swim.
Central Highlands Hot Springs
Hot springs in the Iceland Central Highlands include the following:
Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring Valley
Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
Viti crater at Askja
19. Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring Valley
Located in the Kerlingarfjöll mountains, the hot spring valley of Hveradalir is a wild and remote location, once considered to be a hiding place where only trolls and outlaws would dare to venture.
The hot spring at Kerlingarfjöll is hidden, but not far from the excellent and recently refurbished resort.
Situated between beautiful mountains, amidst glaciers and lava fields, it’s a truly incredible location and an amazing place for a hot soak.
20. Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
The Landmannalaugar hot spring is a very special place with a strange, haunting beauty. Set in Iceland’s southern Highlands, on gravel plains amongst orange rhyolite mountains, it really is a sight to behold.
Referred to as the Farmer's Hot Bathing Pool and also as The People’s Pools, the hot springs of Landmannalaugar are formed with water from a cold spring mixing with hot water seeping out from a 15th century lava flow.
Originally serving as a kind of rest area for travelers, modern day tourists will be rewarded with spectacular views of flowers and snow capped mountains.
To experience the joy of this site simply wade upstream, through the cold water, to where the two flows meet and find a spot where the temperature's right for you.
All that's required is to relax in the warm waters and admire the rugged and dramatic landscape that surrounds you.
As the road to Landmannalaugar makes its way through mountains and lava fields, a 4WD vehicle is required to make the trip.
The good news is that local buses, specially equiped to manage this terrain, provide an alternate option for getting you safely to and from Landmannalaugar.
21. Viti Crater at Askja
Accessible only for a few weeks during the summer months, Askja is a remote and isolated location set in a stunning and dramatic landscape.
The Viti crater at Askja is a broad, flooded volcanic caldera surrounded by the jagged wreckage of countless eruptions.
Created in a colossal explosion in 1875, the pale blue water at the bottom of the volcano can be suitable for a brief swim. However, it's advisable to keep an eye on the smoking, sulphurous vents around the shoreline.
Sometimes the Viti Crater is just too hot for swimming.
In fact, there are times when the local authorities ban swimming in the crater. It’s important to understand that they do so for safety reasons.
Unfortunately, my own attempts to reach this remote location failed. I was defeated by tough terrain and a four wheel drive camper van that, quite frankly, wasn’t up to the trip.
I would love to visit and photograph the Viti Crater at Askja, and hope to do so on my next trip to Iceland.
Geothermal activity along the road near Myvatn in North Iceland.
Conclusion: Why Include Hot Sprints and Geothermal Pools in Your Iceland Itinerary?
An exploration of Iceland is not complete without visiting and immersing yourself into a variety of hot springs and geothermal pools.
In addition to the beauty of the locations in question, the warm, relaxing and therapeutic waters of an Icelandic hot spring make sense for adventure bound hikers, landscape photographers and nature lovers.
“Choose your music and your travel companions wisely. The thought of doing otherwise is too dreadful to contemplate.”
I think it’s fair to say that getting up and about is the way to set yourself up for success, whether it be photography or any other worthwhile travel based pursuit.
It’s true to say that an iconic location is certainly helpful when it comes to creating beautiful landscape photos. And Iceland has iconic locations in abundance.
But even more important than an iconic location is great light, and you simply have to do all you can to be on location, ready to go, when the light is right.
These images were made on my first visit to Iceland, during the long days of summer. For me, the best part about making the photos in this post was that I was ready to make them, long before I arrived at these gorgeous locations.
You see, after spending many hours driving in the late evening light, I had well and truly tapped into the rhythms of the landscapes I was passing through.
“You can’t be there without truly being there.”
I really believe that, you can't actually be there without first being there, in the moment. And you’ll best achieve that state of mind through immersion in the landscape.
The drive, just like a nice long walk, doesn't just get you to where you need to go. The drive gets you to who you need to be. And it’s in that state that you’ll be best prepared to make the kind of photos you’re supposed to be making.
During the long days of the Icelandic summer, when sunset is followed soon after by sunrise, that means being out and about, either side of midnight, making photos into the early hours of the morning.
Yes, it’s certainly a commitment, and one most folks probably aren’t prepared to make. But it’s commitment, and not the camera you use, that separates the very best photographers from the rest of the pack.
Just like everything else in life, it’s not what you can do, but what you actually do that matters.
When it comes to making photos while driving around Iceland, under the midnight sun, I can think of few other things I’d rather do.
In fact I’d call the experience bliss and, having done it on numerous occasions, I know what it’s like to be living in the moment.
All that remains, after a long night driving and photographing into the wee hours, is a soak in a remote hot spring in the Icelandic countryside to finish a truly memorable evening’s adventure.
