06/13/2025 | 10:00 AM
A guide to hot springs and geothermal pools in Iceland
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Words of wisdom from a poetic Icelander: "Iceland's sunshine doesn’t come from the sky, it comes from the water."
For centuries, the mineral-rich geothermal water found in abundance on this volcanic island has done much to make winters not just bearable, but pleasurable. In fact, soaking in pools of hot water has been known to Icelanders since Viking times.
This side of Icelandic life hasn't been lost on visitors, who are more than happy to join the locals in the subculture of soaking and swimming. Many travelers relax and unwind in warm water all over the country.
Soak spots are found in fantastically varied places, from small natural hot springs in remote fields to large, well-maintained public swimming pools in Reykjavík and in virtually every town and village in Iceland. New to the scene are a growing number of deluxe lagoons and spa experiences, tapping into local nature to offer tourists a bathing experience to remember (amid lava fields, by a lakeshore or fjord-edge, atop a cliff with a sea view, etc).
Discover more facts about Iceland's hot springs, including the different types of geothermal pools, and explore the best hot springs and spas to visit in each region so you can experience them for yourself.
The definition of a hot spring is 'a naturally occurring spring of water that is warmed by heat within the Earth'. Hot springs are also referred to as thermal or geothermal springs – the word 'thermal' means relating to heat.
With hot springs in Iceland, the groundwater is naturally heated by volcanic sources. As the water is heated, it rises through fissures, crevices, and volcanic crust to emerge in hot springs and other geothermal features, such as geysers, fumaroles, steam vents, and mud pots you can see at various geothermal areas across Iceland.
Photo: Geysir on the Golden Circle
Not to get too technical, but Iceland has a unique position straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the boundary where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates converge. As a result, it’s a geological hotbed of activity.
This activity can take the form of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and also results in some unique tourist attractions – such as the Bridge between Continents on the Reykjanes peninsula, or the Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park, where you can dive or snorkel in crystal-clear water between tectonic plates.
It’s this geothermal energy that also lends itself to the many hot springs in Iceland located all around the country, including a combination of natural and man-made pools, which we'll explore in more detail later.
Photo: Scuba diving at Silfra
It's useful to note that not all hot springs in Iceland are places where you can swim or soak.
The temperature of Iceland's natural hot springs varies. Sometimes water emerges from the ground at the perfect temperature for bathing (38-40°C, or 100-104°F), while in other areas water emerges at a far hotter temperature that's unsuitable for bathing.
Fun fact: Geothermal water is used to heat most homes in Iceland, and is also used to heat greenhouses where fruits and vegetables are grown. You can see a geothermal greenhouse on the Golden Circle tour route. It’s called Friðheimar and is known for growing ripe and juicy tomatoes.
Photo: Friðheimar on the Golden Circle
There are over 45 hot springs in Iceland, which includes a combination of natural and man-made baths, as well as more than 120 geothermal pools and public swimming facilities.
Some of Iceland's natural hot springs are in the perfect state (with the perfect temperature) to attract bathers, and can be found as natural small pools in the countryside, or places such as the unique Reykjadalur 'hot spring river'. These locations are untouched or very lightly developed sites that offer a more rustic and traditional bathing experience.
More commonly, hot springs have their water channeled (and temperature regulated, with the help of cooler water) to fill constructed facilities like luxury lagoons, town swimming pools, hot-pots (like a jacuzzi without the bubbles), and more.
When a lagoon is described as ‘man-made’, it just means that it's not a naturally-occurring pool. They're still naturally heated by Iceland’s supply of geothermal energy, and some contain various minerals and compounds that are healing and soothing for the skin.
Photo: Reykjadalur close to Hveragerði, South Iceland
The map below shows some of our favorite geothermal bathing spots in Iceland. We've color-coded each category of pools below:
Taking cues from the popularity of the Blue Lagoon (easily among Iceland’s most visited attractions) are a growing number of bathing complexes, springing up in various geothermal hotspots around the country.
Some are large, established facilities with restaurants and cafes, while others are more secluded, intimate spaces set within the tranquility of nature. However, what they all share is the prospect of a soothing and scenic soak as an escape from the cold: a welcome relief after a long day of travel.
Below, we share the best-known hot springs and lagoon facilities in each part of Iceland.
Reykjavík and around
Blue Lagoon, Grindavík: Just 20 minutes from Keflavík airport and around 50km (31 miles) from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s largest and most popular geothermal spa, famous for its milky blue waters. Facilities include on-site dining, an in-water bar, plus on-site hotels. It's a top pick for first- or last-day visits thanks to its proximity to the airport.
Retreat Spa, Grindavík: A sister spa to the Blue Lagoon, this luxury venue is part of the Retreat Hotel and offers an exclusive take on the Blue Lagoon experience. While designed primarily for hotel guests, non-guests can book spa access but at a premium price.
Photo: Blue Lagoon in winter
Sky Lagoon, Reykjavík: Opening its doors in 2021, Sky Lagoon is a coastal retreat close to the city center. Highlights include its signature 7-Step 'Skjól' ritual, a 75-meter (246ft) infinity-edge pool, and a sauna with a fab fjord view.
Hvammsvík, Hvalfjörður: About an hour's drive from Reykjavík, Hvammsvík sits on the edge of the Hvalfjörður fjord. A cluster of eight natural rock pools blends into the coastal landscape offering fantastic views, and you can enjoy a bite to eat in the restored WWII barracks turned café.
Krauma, Reykholt: Fed by Europe's most powerful hot spring (called Deildartunguhver), Krauma is a minimalist, boutique spa about 100km (62 miles) from the capital. With five hot pools, a cold plunge, saunas, and a stylish restaurant, it offers an intimate experience in the West Icelandic countryside.
Photo: Krauma, West Iceland
Golden Circle area
Laugarvatn Fontana, Laugarvatn: Located on the Golden Circle route, Fontana is a geothermal spa beside Laugarvatn lake. Guests can alternate between steam rooms built over bubbling springs, warm pools, and refreshing dips in the lake itself (if you can brave the cold!).
Secret Lagoon, Fluðir: A misty lagoon with a long history (dating from 1891), also close to the Golden Circle highlights. It’s a more affordable option that offers a more rustic soak experience, with simple facilities, natural steam vents, and an ambient mist rising from the water.
Laugarás Lagoon, Laugarás: One of Iceland's newest geothermal bathing spots is scheduled to open in summer 2025, on the banks of the Hvíta river in the village of Laugarás. The restaurant is likely to be top-notch, with a high-profile local chef known as Gísli Matt at the helm.
Photo: Laugarvatn Fontana
North Iceland
Forest Lagoon, Akureyri: Just outside Akureyri (Iceland’s second largest city), Forest Lagoon is set in a wooded hillside with views over Eyjafjörður fjord. Opened in 2022, the spa has two pools, a cold plunge, and a swim-up bar. As the name suggests, the lagoon and facilities are framed by a charming pine forest.
Mývatn Nature Baths, Mývatn: North Iceland's version of the Blue Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths offers tranquil relaxation in an active geothermal hotspot. With steamy blue waters, surrounding lava fields, and views over Mývatn lake, it's a key stop on the Diamond Circle route and is much less crowded than its southern cousin.
GeoSea, Húsavík: Perched on a clifftop above Skjálfandi bay, GeoSea combines award-winning design with geothermal seawater pools and great mountain views. On some days, you can even spot whales surfacing in the distance!
Photo: Forest Lagoon, North Iceland
East Iceland
Vök Baths, Egilsstaðir: Floating on the surface of Urriðavatn lakes, Vök Baths is one of East Iceland's standout attractions. This stylish complex includes two pools set directly in the lake, fed by hot spring water that's so pure it's certified for drinking. There's also a tea bar using local herbs, and lake dips for the brave.
Highlands
Highland Base Baths, Kerlingarfjöll: Newly opened as part of the Highland Base hotel complex, this spa lies deep in the Icelandic Highlands along the Kjölur route. Developed by the Blue Lagoon family, it offers warm pools in a remote, volcanic landscape – the perfect reward after hiking in Kerlingarfjöll.
Photo: Vök Baths, East Iceland
Taking cues from the popularity of the Blue Lagoon (easily among Iceland’s most visited attractions) are a growing number of bathing complexes, springing up in various geothermal hotspots around the country.
Some are large, established facilities with restaurants and cafes, while others are more secluded, intimate spaces set within the tranquility of nature. However, what they all share is the prospect of a soothing and scenic soak as an escape from the cold: a welcome relief after a long day of travel.
Below, we share the best-known hot springs and lagoon facilities in each part of Iceland.
,Reykjavík and around
Blue Lagoon, Grindavík: Just 20 minutes from Keflavík airport and around 50km (31 miles) from Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s largest and most popular geothermal spa, famous for its milky blue waters. Facilities include on-site dining, an in-water bar, plus on-site hotels. It's a top pick for first- or last-day visits thanks to its proximity to the airport.
Retreat Spa, Grindavík: A sister spa to the Blue Lagoon, this luxury venue is part of the Retreat Hotel and offers an exclusive take on the Blue Lagoon experience. While designed primarily for hotel guests, non-guests can book spa access but at a premium price.
Photo: Blue Lagoon in winter
,Sky Lagoon, Reykjavík: Opening its doors in 2021, Sky Lagoon is a coastal retreat close to the city center. Highlights include its signature 7-Step 'Skjól' ritual, a 75-meter (246ft) infinity-edge pool, and a sauna with a fab fjord view.
Hvammsvík, Hvalfjörður: About an hour's drive from Reykjavík, Hvammsvík sits on the edge of the Hvalfjörður fjord. A cluster of eight natural rock pools blends into the coastal landscape offering fantastic views, and you can enjoy a bite to eat in the restored WWII barracks turned café.
Krauma, Reykholt: Fed by Europe's most powerful hot spring (called Deildartunguhver), Krauma is a minimalist, boutique spa about 100km (62 miles) from the capital. With five hot pools, a cold plunge, saunas, and a stylish restaurant, it offers an intimate experience in the West Icelandic countryside.
Photo: Krauma, West Iceland
,Golden Circle area
Laugarvatn Fontana, Laugarvatn: Located on the Golden Circle route, Fontana is a geothermal spa beside Laugarvatn lake. Guests can alternate between steam rooms built over bubbling springs, warm pools, and refreshing dips in the lake itself (if you can brave the cold!).
Secret Lagoon, Fluðir: A misty lagoon with a long history (dating from 1891), also close to the Golden Circle highlights. It’s a more affordable option that offers a more rustic soak experience, with simple facilities, natural steam vents, and an ambient mist rising from the water.
Laugarás Lagoon, Laugarás: One of Iceland's newest geothermal bathing spots is scheduled to open in summer 2025, on the banks of the Hvíta river in the village of Laugarás. The restaurant is likely to be top-notch, with a high-profile local chef known as Gísli Matt at the helm.
Photo: Laugarvatn Fontana
,North Iceland
Forest Lagoon, Akureyri: Just outside Akureyri (Iceland’s second largest city), Forest Lagoon is set in a wooded hillside with views over Eyjafjörður fjord. Opened in 2022, the spa has two pools, a cold plunge, and a swim-up bar. As the name suggests, the lagoon and facilities are framed by a charming pine forest.
Mývatn Nature Baths, Mývatn: North Iceland's version of the Blue Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths offers tranquil relaxation in an active geothermal hotspot. With steamy blue waters, surrounding lava fields, and views over Mývatn lake, it's a key stop on the Diamond Circle route and is much less crowded than its southern cousin.
GeoSea, Húsavík: Perched on a clifftop above Skjálfandi bay, GeoSea combines award-winning design with geothermal seawater pools and great mountain views. On some days, you can even spot whales surfacing in the distance!
Photo: Forest Lagoon, North Iceland
,East Iceland
Vök Baths, Egilsstaðir: Floating on the surface of Urriðavatn lakes, Vök Baths is one of East Iceland's standout attractions. This stylish complex includes two pools set directly in the lake, fed by hot spring water that's so pure it's certified for drinking. There's also a tea bar using local herbs, and lake dips for the brave.
Highlands
Highland Base Baths, Kerlingarfjöll: Newly opened as part of the Highland Base hotel complex, this spa lies deep in the Icelandic Highlands along the Kjölur route. Developed by the Blue Lagoon family, it offers warm pools in a remote, volcanic landscape – the perfect reward after hiking in Kerlingarfjöll.
Photo: Vök Baths, East Iceland
,Thinking about bathing in Iceland may conjure images of luxury lagoons set in lava, but some of the country's best (and most affordable) swimming and soaking spots are its humble neighborhood pools.
Community swimming pools are designed to appeal to everyone. Generally speaking, most complexes will have a main central pool – usually around 25 meters in length – which is used by serious lap-swimmers and learners alike. These pools tend to be around 27-30°C (80-86°F).
Additionally, most community pools have a selection of smaller, warmer pools – generally known as hot tubs or hot-pots ('heitur pottur' in Icelandic) – with water temperature around 38 to 40°C, which are perfect for relaxing during the colder months, or soothing aching muscles after a vigorous swimming session. Many pools will also have a sauna or steam room, and areas for lounging, sunbathing (depending on the time of year, of course!), and chatting with friends.
Given that Iceland has an abundance of community pools, you're guaranteed to find something to suit your tastes, from family-friendly pools with twisty waterslides, to gorgeous views, to steaming hot-pots.
Look for signs for 'sundlaug', which means swimming pool in Icelandic. Almost every town and village has one, and they're the hub of local life all year round.
For instance, the capital Reykjavík has a remarkable 18 public swimming pools. Favorites include downtown Sundhöllin, west-side Vesturbæjarlaug, saltwater Seltjarnarnes, and the biggest of all, Laugardalslaug.
,Outside Reykjavík, the list of best geothermal swimming pools in Iceland could run to many pages. Many have perfected the combination of a relaxing soak accompanied by endless vistas. Here are some to add to your itinerary:
Laugarskarð, Hveragerði, South Iceland: Situated about 45 minutes from Reykjavík, this historic 50-meter pool was built in the 1940s. It's heated by natural steam from the ground and includes a warm shallow sitting pool, a jacuzzi, and a natural steam bath.
Seljavallalaug, South Iceland: Built in 1923, this is among Iceland's oldest swimming pools. The setting is magical (in a small valley tucked into mountains), but the site is unstaffed and sadly the building here is a little unloved.
Hofsós, North Iceland: One of Iceland's most photogenic swimming pools, Hofsós overlooks Skagafjörður fjord in North Iceland. Designed with minimalism in mind, the pool offers stunning views from both the main pool and the hot-pot, especially at sunset.
Akureyri Swimming Pool, North Iceland: This well-equipped facility features two 25-meter outdoor pools, an indoor pool, waterslides, splash pools, hot-pots, a cold bath, and a steam bath.
Photo: Hofsós, North Iceland
,Krossneslaug, Westfjords: Located on the Strandir coast in the Westfjords, Krossneslaug is a remote geothermal pool just above the Atlantic Ocean. It's a wild, scenic soak far from the tourist trail.
Birkimelur, Westfjords: Situated near the Brjánslækur ferry terminal, Birkimelur is a peaceful roadside pool with open valley views and a hot-pot. It’s a great stopover en route to the southern beaches and bird-filled cliffs of the Westfjords.
Selardálslaug, East Iceland: A remote, quiet pool by a salmon-fishing river in Vopnafjörður, Selárdalslaug is a peaceful swimming spot beloved by locals.
Photo: Krossneslaug, Westfjords
,There's no shortage of natural hot-water springs in Iceland. From small geothermal pools to hot springs rivers, there are some wonderfully unique destinations worth checking out to get the true sense of how Icelandic ancestors really did it! Here are some of our favorite picks:
,Nauthólsvík beach, Reykjavík: Nauthólsvík is a beach with a large hot-pot on the shore. In addition, warm water is pumped into an artificial lagoon on the sand and the outcome is a refreshing swimming area averaging 15-19°C (59-66°F) in summer.
Reykjadalur valley, South Iceland: This valley is home to the renowned geothermal river Varmá, and can be reached by an uphill hike (around 45-60 minutes each way) from a car park and trailhead near the town of Hveragerði. It's a popular destination, with bathers enjoying the novelty of a 'hot river'. You can move to different spots to find your optimum water temperature (the further upstream, the warmer the water).
Fosslaug, Varmahlíð, North Iceland: Adjacent to the picturesque Reykjafoss waterfall, Fosslaug is a natural hot spring that offers a peaceful soak with the soothing sounds of the falls nearby.
Laugavallalaug, East Iceland: One of Iceland's geothermal hidden gems, Laugavallalaug features a warm waterfall you can bathe beneath. Located in a remote area of East Iceland near Kárahnjúkar (4x4 vehicle required), it's one of the few places in the world where you can shower in a naturally hot cascade.
Photo: Reykjadalur near Hveragerði, South Iceland
,Highland spots
Landmannalaugar, Highlands: This highland oasis is home to hiking trails and natural hot pools. After a day of trekking through colorful rhyolite mountains, visitors can enjoy a welcome soak in a hot spring.
Víti crater, Highlands: In the central highlands, you’ll find the large Askja crater that holds a cold-water lake. Beside Askja is a smaller crater known as Víti, which is geothermally heated. It's a slippery climb in and out of the crater, but it's a popular bathing site with milky-blue water around 30°C (86°F).
Hveravellir Nature Reserve, Highlands: Another highland hot spot just off the Kjölur route, Hveravellir features a natural hot pool amid steaming fumaroles and boiling springs. Though slightly modified with stones, it retains its natural feel.
Strútslaug, Highlands: A wilderness soak spot between glaciers, Strútslaug is a naturally formed hot spring accessible via a scenic hike in the southern Highlands. It's in a green valley surrounded by remote, untouched landscapes, and is perfect for adventurous travelers.
Photo: Víti crater in the Highlands
,As well as larger hot-spring resorts like the Blue Lagoon's Retreat, there are a number of hot-pots dotted around the country at smaller guesthouses. Many hotels have them, and many Icelanders consider summerhouses to be incomplete without them.
There are also plenty of geothermal pools near hiking routes or with unique tours nearby that add another level to the experience. So, whether you're taking a road trip around Iceland, or want to combine your soak with a fun activity, check out some more of our favorite spots below:
,West Iceland
You can take a tour to the Húsafell Canyon Baths, snug in a scenic ravine. In the town of Akranes, there's a fantastic beachside construction of hot pools known as Guðlaug. In Dalir you'll find the sweet soak spot named Guðrúnarlaug (or Guðrún's Pool).
North Iceland
The small northern town of Hauganes has a great collection of pools by the fjord's edge (including one in a boat!), and a nearby brewery has outdoor hot-pots plus indoor beer baths.
Grettislaug, north of the town of Sauðarkrókur, has a storied history tied to the Icelandic sagas.
Photo: Hauganes, North Iceland
,Westfjords
There's a collection of pots in scenic Westfjords locales: one in Tálknafjörður (known as 'Pollurinn') and another in Drangsnes.
In the Mjóifjörður area, Heydalur is a remote lodge offering a natural hot spring, an indoor pool, horseback riding, and kayaking, making it one of the Westfjords' best multi-activity stays.
East and Southeast Iceland
In the east, in the small village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, a small resort offers Musterið Spa, home to hot-pots and barrel-like saunas with superb views, plus the chance to bathe in beer or seaweed.
In the eastern highlands, Laugarfell is a wonderful hiking spot with post-hike hot pools, and en route there you can visit the Wilderness Center, also with a hot spring and bathhouse.
At Hoffell in the southeast, there's a simple collection of pools with glacier views. The area is soon to be redeveloped by the Blue Lagoon.
Photo: The spa at Borgarfjörður Eystri, East Iceland
The natural hot springs in Iceland contain a variety of minerals that are found to have health benefits. Minerals like magnesium are known to help the skin's radiance, and sodium that's known to have anti-inflammatory powers can be found in the natural waters.
As well as the mineral benefits, relaxing in a hot spring can calm your mind and body, so it's the perfect way to unwind from the everyday.
Photo: Blue Lagoon offers silica mud masks to all visitors
There is no ‘best’ time to visit hot springs, since most of Iceland's geothermal pools and baths are open year-round. However, there are a few things to consider when planning your trip, since each season in Iceland offers a slightly different bathing experience.
Winter: Visiting hot springs during Iceland's winter (November to March) offers magical contrasts with snow-covered landscapes and the chance to soak under the northern lights at night. However, due to reduced daylight hours and harsher weather conditions, road access to some of the more remote springs (such as those in the highlands) is restricted.
Summer: Summer (June to August) is favored by many bathers due to the milder weather conditions when going for a dip. With the flexibility of longer daylight hours, you'll have even more opportunities to enjoy Iceland's geothermal pools in the evenings after a long day of exploring. Plus, visiting in summertime gives you full access to highland springs or pools with hiking en route.
Spring/Fall: The shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal if you want to enjoy geothermal bathing with fewer crowds while temperatures are still relatively mild. During these seasons, some of Iceland's more remote hot springs are still accessible, and there are some beautiful landscapes to observe during the spring and fall months too.
Photo: Mývatn Nature Baths under the northern lights
The vast range of hot springs and geothermal baths in Iceland are more than just tourist attractions, they’re the beating heart of Iceland, connecting to the very same bathing traditions practiced by ancestors for centuries.
If you're planning to visit Iceland, a trip to a pool or lagoon is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture and experience the amazing geothermal powers of the Land of Fire and Ice for yourself. At Icelandair, we offer a variety of customizable spa and wellness vacation packages to help you organize the perfect trip.
With packages that include flights, accommodation, and admission to one of Iceland's most popular geothermal bathing spots (including the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and others), we can make travel plans simpler with all your bookings in one place.