A small hot spring with a cozy feel, this beautiful pool is on private property and feels secluded. It’s an excellent option for those short on time or who want to avoid the crowds of the Blue Lagoon.
Located on a lava field in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, this Lagoon-esque spa offers incredible views and a relaxing soak.
Seljavallalaug
This hidden hot spring is one of Iceland’s most famous natural pools. Located near Fludir, it is a small, cozy pool with stone walls where you can soak in a serene natural setting. It is also known for its healing properties, and many people who visit here can improve their skin condition from this therapeutic bath.
This secluded pool is found in the Fjallabak nature reserve, which is a hiker’s dream. Visitors can drive close to the hidden valley containing Seljavallalaug but eventually will have to park and hike to the pool. This is a challenging trek, especially in the winter, when it will be covered in snow and ice.
The water in this secluded spring is delightful and was around 37 degrees Celsius when we visited. However, it is not SPA-clean, and there are sometimes algae and even some ash floating on the water’s surface. Luckily, the water naturally cleans itself; volunteers help clean it once a year.
The water here is quite warm but surprisingly calm, perfect for relaxing after hiking. It is also a great spot to admire the rocky rhyolite peaks surrounding this secluded natural pool. If you want to take a dip, bring a towel and wear your swimsuit.
Nauteyri
While the Blue Lagoon may be one of the most famous hot springs in Iceland, there are plenty of other natural pools to discover. Look at the map below to find one that’s perfect for you. Once you’ve found the ideal spot, leave it as you found it. This is part of being a responsible traveler and will allow future visitors to enjoy it, too.
Landmannalaug, which means “the people’s pools,” is a stunning geothermal pool in the Southern Highlands near Strandir. Its vivid blue waters have the feel of an infinity pool and are surrounded by the pristine landscape of this wild region. The pool was initially used as a rest area for travelers traveling in the area, and it remains a popular place to relax and refresh after a long day of exploring Iceland’s fantastic nature.
Iceland’s thermal pools are open year-round so that you can enjoy them regardless of season. Swimming in a natural hot spring is incredibly invigorating if you visit during the winter. It’s a great way to counteract the cold air and warm your body from the inside out.
Breathtaking landscapes surround the best hot springs in Iceland. Whether relaxing in a lava field or taking a dip in the water of a volcanic river, these naturally heated pools are a must-visit during any trip to Iceland.
Snorralaug
One of Iceland’s most famous hot springs in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon, but there are many others to discover on the Golden Circle and around the country’s Ring Road. Some are even suitable for a day trip, while others provide accommodations for staying overnight.
Located near Varmahlid, the Fosslaug hot spring is the perfect place to relax after a long drive on Iceland’s highway. It’s free to enter, but there is a donation box to help with maintenance. The shallow and warm water makes it easy to wade in and cool off. There are also some changing stalls for those who need to change into bathing suits before entering the hot spring.
Another natural thermal pool in the northern region of Iceland is Grjotagja, made famous by the Jon Snow character in multiple episodes of Game of Thrones. Located in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, it is a hidden gem amongst the mountains and volcanoes. It is a must-visit for anyone who wants to soak in a pristine natural setting while staring at the incredible landscape of the volcanic Highlands.
The best time to visit Iceland’s hot springs is during the summer when it’s warmer and more accessible. But they’re also open year-round, and swimming under the midnight sun or during a winter blizzard can be just as relaxing. Just remember to abide by the general rules of etiquette in hot springs out of respect for locals and other visitors.
Hrunalaug
Hrunalaug is one of the best hot springs in Iceland, as it’s less well-known and, therefore, more peaceful than other pools. It’s located east of the Golden Circle, in a stunning landscape where you can soak amongst lava fields and glaciers.
The hot spring is a natural pool with various temperatures and perfectly integrated into the landscape. The water comes from underneath, melted by the magma, and flows to the surface. As it rises, it dissolves minerals such as silica, which gives the water its silky smooth texture and may help with skin problems, and sulfur, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can ease respiratory conditions.
While this is a beautiful and relaxing experience, the spring is also on private land, so respecting the environment and leaving no trace is essential. It’s a good idea to shower thoroughly (without clothing) before entering the pool, ask permission from the owner before drinking alcohol or cooking at the site, and don’t camp there, even though it is free to visit.
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the Hrunalaug hot spring in the morning or around sunset. It’s also worth trying the Hveravellir hot spring, which is much quieter away from the Ring Road. This beautiful, magical setting has breathtaking views of the lava fields and mountains.
