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From venturing out to the remote Hot Springs Iceland has to offer or spending a day in lavish luxury at a geothermal spa, the hot springs in Iceland are a must-do while visiting the land of fire and ice.
There’s nothing quite like soaking in a geothermally heated hot spring while watching the northern lights dance across the sky after a long day of hiking in Iceland.
Whether you’re headed deep into the Westernfjords or staying close to Reykjavik, there’s a hot spring for every level of adventure and every budget. These are the best hot springs Iceland has to offer:
Once a sheep farm, Hrunalaung has transformed into a privately owned geothermal hot spring, not far off from the famed ring road in Southern Iceland. The cozy springs consist of 3 small stone-walled pools plus a tiny stone-walled changing shed where the sheep once stayed.
Thanks to the size and location of the hot springs, this offers a very intimate interaction with nature, Icelandic culture, and fellow bathers. The largest pool can fit around 8 people comfortably.
In the warmer months, you’ll be gazing out at the green rolling hills of the Iceland countryside. In the winter, the hills will be covered in snow; however, the water stays at a perfect temperature year-round.
Given its proximity to the ring road, the pools fill up quickly with tourists. For more privacy, I’d recommend going in the early morning or later in the evening.
If you plan to visit this hot spring, be sure to bring cash for a donation to support the farmer who owns the property. They have a wooden box accepting donations on the honor system.
Remember, there isn’t anyone coming at the end of the day to clean up after you, so whatever you leave will stay there. While it’s a great place for a picnic and a dip, make sure to practice the leave no trace principle.
Where is it?
In Southern Iceland, Nearest Town is Flúðir, 8 minutes from the springs (1 hour and 30 minutes from Reykjavik)
Entrance Price:
Honor System Donation Recommended 1000 ISK ($8) in cash only
Where to Stay:
No Onsite Camping Allowed
** The Secret Lagoon is 10 minute’s drive from Hrunalaug
Thanks to its Instagram-worthy milky blue waters and proximity to the capital city, The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous hot springs in Iceland.
While the prices are steep and the experience is definitely on the commercial side, It couldn’t be left off the list of the best hot springs in Iceland because it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do.
Additionally, the black lava stone surrounding the pool you’ll feel like you’re on a different planet. The entrance fee includes a free mud mask from their skincare line, so you’ll be able to fully relax and revitalize yourself inside and out while soaking in the mineral-rich waters and mud.
Where is it?
Grindavík (45 minutes from Reykjavik)
Entrance Price:
Comfort From EUR 57
Premium From EUR 72
Where to Stay:
Silica Hotel (Onsite)
No Onsite Camping Allowed
This newcomer to Iceland’s geothermal spas definitely doesn’t disappoint. Deemed the “Sky Lagoon” the springs were crafted with a 230-foot infinity edge that boasts a dramatic overlooking view of the Atlantic ocean. While you’re gazing at where the sky meets water you’ll also be able to immerse yourself in the history and heritage of the Icelandic bathing rituals.
The sky lagoon was inspired by the 7-step wellness rituals that have been honed and crafted over centuries in Icelandic culture. It uses the healing powers of combining time spent in warm and cold water, steam and dry heat, and fresh air. At the lagoon, you can find everything you need to try out the ritual for yourself.
While the lagoon itself is stunning, with its soothing warm geothermal waters, and the black stones surrounding the unbeatable view, The sauna (dry heat step in the ritual) is equally as enticing. It features the largest single window in Iceland overlooking the ocean.
While it’s definitely one of Iceland’s more commercial hot spring experiences, the way it ties in the heritage of the Icelandic bathing ritual makes it every bit worth it’s cost. Plus if you’re looking for a kid-free experience the minimum age of entrance is 12 years old.
Where is it?
Kópavogur (10 minutes south of Reykjavik)
Entrance Price:
Pure pass lite ISK 7,990 ($60) which includes admission, access to changing rooms, and a towel
Pure Pass ISK 9,990 ($85) admission, access to changing rooms, one journey through the 7-step ritual and a towel
Sky Pass ISK 13,900 ($100) ****admission, private changing rooms, one journey through the 7-step ritual and a towel
Where to Stay:
No Onsite Camping Allowed
Hvammsvik Hot Springs is another newcomer to the geothermal spas in icealnd— although it is a resort, it feels much less commercial than the likes of the blue lagoon or the sky lagoon.
There are 8 natural pools that spill into the ocean, some of the pools disappear and reappear throughout the day dependent on the low and high tides. These pools are unique because of their mix of mineral-rich geothermal water and salty ocean water.
Surrounding the hot springs there’s Icelandic countryside that is free for exploring. Since theirs no time limit on your entrance to Hvammsvik, you can spend the day bouncing between the springs, taking a dip in the ocean, hiking, lounging on the black sand beaches, and enjoying a steam bath.
The facilities are top-of-the-line and were constructed to play off the natural surroundings and crafted with local materials. The resort has 4 private houses for groups looking for a stay surrounded by the dramatic Icelandic landscape.
Where is it?
Hvalfjörður, 45 minutes drive from Reykjavík
Entrance Price:
Weekdays 6.900 ISK
Weekends 7.900 ISK
Where to Stay:
Onsite (groups of 4+),
No Onsite Camping Allowed
This isn’t exactly a hot spring with water around 80 degrees pare but as Iceland’s oldest geothermal pool, it couldn’t be left off the list. Built in the 1920s by a local Icelander who thought everyone should know how to swim— now students can’t graduate without learning how to swim.
To reach the pool you’ll have to hike 20 minutes along a dried-up river bed, it’s worth every bit of the effort to come across this seemingly abandoned pool and changing room at the foot of a mountain.
Don’t expect the luxury of the likes of the sky lagoon or Hvammsvik, this is a no-frills type of place. The pool is cleaned once a year, algae can accumulate on the surface of the pool, and thanks to messy tourists, wet clothes and litter pile up in the changing facilities.
You’ll want to wear your bathing suit under your clothes unless you are comfortable towel changing— you’ll need to bring your own towel and a waterproof bag is ideal for keeping your belongings dry while you’re swimming.
Where is it?
Vik and Myrdalsjokull (2 hours southeast of Reykjavik)
Entrance fee:
None
Where to stay nearby:
Þakgil (camping and cottages)
No Onsite Camping Allowed
If you’ve ever wanted to experience taking a dip in a river running through a fairytale-esque mossy green valley, Reykjadalur should be the hot spring in Iceland that’s on the top of your list.
You won’t have to bare the usual glacier-cold water that’s typically found in mountain streams because this water is naturally warmed with geothermal energy.
It’s about a two-mile hike and you’ll have to avoid the mud pools as well as hot springs that are too hot for swimming along the way (always check before getting in, natural hot springs in Iceland can get EXTREMELY hot). While some of the springs are unswimmably hot, it’s thanks to them that this area has its nickname, steam valley.
The area you’re looking for is a swimmable river that stays around 104 degrees Fahrenheit that you’ll be able easily to find due thanks to the boardwalk for easy access into the spring. There are multiple pools to swim in, and you can move closer and farther from the hot or cold water sources to find the temperature that you feel the most comfortable in.
This is a truly natural hot spring, so there are no changing facilities. Make sure you bring a waterproof bag for your belongings and a big towel for changing.
With its milky blue water, Lake Mývatn Nature Baths are the blue lagoon of northern Iceland. While you’ll only be 65 miles south of the article circle, you’ll be nice and warm in the hot springs. Iceland’s iconic mars-like lava fields surround this remote spa, and in the distance, you won’t be disappointed with the view of the snowcapped mountains.
While this is another commercial lagoon that you’ll need to pay entrance fees at, it’s a perfect place to enjoy R&R before hitting the harsh terrain for more adventures or hikes in Iceland.
Unlike the hot springs Iceland offers in nature, this place has everything you need for a more luxurious experience. Changing rooms, steam baths, a swim-up bar (with both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks) as well as a sit-down cafe. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to watch as the mystical aurora Borealis dance across the sky while sipping something refreshing in the alkaline blue water.
Where is it?
Mývatn (5 hours and 50 minutes northeast of Reykjavik)
Entrance Fee:
5,900 ISK ($45) for the basic entrance fee and a locker
6,900 ISK ($50) entrance and a drink
8,900 ISK ($65 USD) entrance, bathrobe, towel, and drink
Where to stay nearby:
Known as the Secret Lagoon, Gamla Laugin is said to be Iceland’s oldest natural pool, opening in 1891. The lagoon was “forgotten” for around 60 years during which the springs laid dormant until the early 2000s when they reopened with new facilities, including changing rooms, a cafe, and steam rooms.
Today as you might be able to guess, the hot spring isn’t much of a secret. Although it is off the tourist path beyond the golden circle, it still gets pretty crowded. If you’re traveling during the peak seasons, you’ll want to book your tickets to the hot springs in advance.
The water is warmed to a cozy 100-104 degrees by the surrounding geysers— which are extremely active erupting every few minutes. Thanks to the walking paths built around the pool you can safely see the bubbling and boiling of the geothermal area in all its glory.
In the winter months, it’s a great place to warm yourself after a day of exploration. Due to its remote location there’s very little light pollution in the area so if you’re lucky the northern lights will give you a show.
Where is it?
Flúðir (1hr 30minutes from Reykjavík, Iceland)
Entrance Fee:
3300 ISK ($23)
Where to Stay:
No onsite camping
Located on a nature reserve that’s nestled between two mountains in the Icelandic highlands, Hveravellir is one of the most picturesque Hot Springs Iceland has to offer. The area around the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range is famed worldwide and is considered to be one of Europe’s “last great wilderness areas.”
Surrounding the lagoon you get the true fire and ice experience with a mix of glaciers and lava fields— it’s a breathtaking view that’s enjoyed best from the warmth of the geothermal hot spring.
The best part about this hot spring is that you can stay directly on-site. Waking up to the postcard-worthy views, and taking a dip first thing in the morning is a great way to start your day in Iceland.
Where is it?
Hveravellir Nature Reserve, Hveravellir Nature Reserve from Reykjavík
Entrance Fee:
500 ISK ($3.50) for use of the facilities
Where to Stay:
Onsite
Hidden deep in-between the rhyolite mountains in the southern highlands, which are a sight to see on their own with hues of red, pink, green, blue, and yellow. The hot springs are nestled between lava fields of dried magma.
These historic pools served as a resting place for travelers for years— it’s no surprise why they would decide to rest here— it’s nothing short of stunning. While back in the day the travelers were settlers looking for where to set up shop, today it’s tourists looking for a place to rest between excursions.
It’s definitely worth making the trip, with the snow-capped mountains and wildflower-filled meadows it’s a breathtaking stop, to say the least.
Getting to the springs isn’t a cakewalk. The terrain is rough so hiking it, taking a 4×4 vehicle, or one of the local buses are your best bets— if you’re in a rental car or camper van you’re not going to want to risk traversing the mountain roads.
Where is it?
Friðland að Fjallabaki Nature Reserve, 3 hours from Reykjavík
Entrance Fee:
Free
Where to Stay:
Onsite Camping available at Landmannalaugar Camping
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths are a popular stop along the golden circle route in Iceland. They formally opened their facilities in 2011, but the locals have been relishing in their wellness benefits since 1929.
You can enjoy all three of their outdoor mineral springs or jump in lake Laugarvatn for a refreshing dip. If you’d rather just bask in the lake’s beauty rather than dive in, you get the best view of it from the hottest pool that’s built a little higher up than the rest to get a great view of the lake and the mountains in the distance.
On location, they also offer other excursions like snorkeling in the lake as well and tours of their geothermal-powered bakery— which you should stop at either way to sample some of Iceland’s delicious baked goods.
Where is it?
Laugarvatn (one hour east of Reykjavik)
Entrance Fee:
4,500 ISK ($34 USD) includes entry and access to changing rooms and lockers.
Where to Stay:
No Onsite Camping
Nestled deep in the Westfjords, there’s a hidden gem where there are no lines and no entrance fees. This hot spring is a must-visit for anyone who wants a more natural and remote experience. While it’s not the easiest to get to— a four-wheel drive definitely recommended this hot pool has some of the best views, overlooking both the ocean and the Vatnsfjörður fjord.
Since this hot spring is a truly natural experience facility for visitors. meaning that you’ll need to change under a towel or wear it under your clothes. Plus you’ll want to bring a waterproof bag to keep your items dry while you’re enjoying the warmth of the natural pools.
Where is it?
Flókalundur (4 hours and 10 minutes north of Reykjavik)
Entrance Fee:
Free
Where to Stay:
No Onsite Camping
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