There is something that is so relaxing about spending time in an Icelandic Hot Spring. Maybe it has to do with the long days of exploring all the amazing locations and driving you spend along your Iceland road trip
But the Iceland adventure isn't complete until you have taken a dip into at least one of the many different natural hot springs or geothermal pools that this country has to offer. Iceland is very lucky to have access to have so many hot spring locations and they make great use of them. Out of all the hot springs we've tried in Iceland these our our favorite Hot springs that we visited and what we loved most about them.
1. Hrunalaug Hot spring
cost: 1000isk ($7.50USD)
location: Hrunalaug Hot spring
seats: Max 15 people
This is one of our favorite spots and we have gotten lucky both times we've visited by having it completely to ourselves. One of the most beautiful locations to watch the sunset and the stars come out. The spring is growing with popularity over the years and in size. There is the original hut and small bath in front but now on our last visit 2 larger pools off to the left side allowing for more visitors. They've even included a little walking path with a foot bridge over the small stream. The spring is located on a farm and is maintained by the local farmer. The 1000ISK goes straight to supporting a local Icelandic family so please don't skip paying the fee which goes into a drop box by the parking area.
2. Landbrotalaug Hot spring
Cost: free
location: Landbrotalaug
Seats: 2-3
This one was hard to find and there are actually two hot springs at this location. about 3 minute walk away from the parking lot you'll see a large pipe coming up out the ground that is spewing up HOT HOT water. There is a small pool that's been walled out from small stones that forms a bathing area. The surrounding water is freezing and we couldn't find a good mix of the cold and hot water to relax in but it was still a cool spot to check out.
just past this spot is the Landbrotalaug Hot spring. Which is the smallest hot spring we've ever seen. Again the scenery was incredible to relax and watch the late night sunset and somehow we got this place all to ourselves after another couple was leaving. The water was the perfect temperature and the hole is about 3-4 feet in diameter and about 4 feet deep.
3. Blue Lagoon- Iceland's Most Famous Hot Spring
Cost: $60+ USD time depending
Location: Blue Lagoon
This is the most popular hot spring in Iceland but it is a total experience that you just can't miss out. The water is actually a milky white but the sun just makes it look blue. The Lagoon is located only 20 mins away from the Keflavik airport which makes it a great location to either start or end your Iceland trip. It is on the expensive side but totally worth the experience so make sure you get your volcanic facial mask and complimentary drink at the swim up bar and relax in this incredible hot spring. You can book your tickets on the Blue lagoon website.
4. The Secret Lagoon
Cost: 3000ISK ($21.32 USD)
Location: Secret Lagoon
This not so Secret lagoon was better that the Blue lagoon but it does not have the milky blue water or the same facilities, facial masks, or complimentary free drink at the swim up bar. But the water was hot! which felt amazing after all the driving we did on our trip and it is also is more friendly towards your wallet and the budget traveler. Its also close to Hrunalaug hot spring so if that place is to packed you can just come here. This is Icelands oldest natural pool that was made in 1891 and it even has a little active geyser which spouts every few minutes. They have kept the spring simple and unique so it really feels like a true icleandic experience. You can book your tickets on the Secret lagoon Website.
5. Reykajadalur valley- Hot spring River
Cost: Free
Location: Reykajadalur Valley
hike distance: 6km round trip
This is one of the coolest places to visit in Iceland. The hike into the valley is 3km one way which takes about 45-60 minutes. After you park your car you'll cross a bridge over a river and hike up hill on a gravel trail. There are plenty of photo spots along the way so don't forget to bring your camera with you for this adventure. Along the trail there are hot pools of water and mud that are boiling up. T he hike is relatively easy overall except for a few parts that the ground was soft and muddy from the rain. But once you reach the bathing area you will see bard pathways along the river. Be very careful when leaving the trail some of the spots of the spring that enter the river are boiling and you can easily burn your self. The temperature varies along the river but we found the hotter water was further up stream. People have created little barricades in the river to form little lagoons to bathe in as the river is shallow. This place was really cool and definitely worth adding to your Iceland road trip
6. Hellulaug Hot spring
Cost: Free
Location: Hellulaug Hot spring
Seats: 5-8
This was a lucky find for us as we drove through the West Fjords of Iceland off to the side of the road was this incredible ocean view hot spring. Yes its right off the main road but this area isn't traveled as much (yet...) so we jumped out of the car and enjoyed another great Iceland Hot spring and sunset. We even had some playful seals swimming around and relaxing on the rocks closer to the ocean. The water was perfect. We were very fortunate to have this place all to ourselves and as we were leaving another couple pulled up.
7. Sky Lagoon
Cost: 6990ISK ($49.67 USD) + time depending
Location: Sky Lagoon
This brand new Lagoon opened in April 2021 and has made its mark quickly and is easily competing with the famous blue lagoon. Located just minutes from downtown Reykjavik on the ocean you will be able to enjoy beautiful views and some elements inspired by nature and heritage of Iceland. Turf walls, plunge pools, and a turf house. This really is an amazing escape to relax and enjoy yourself. We have not been able to go to this amazing Hot spring for ourselves but it is on our list for our next trip we plan in Iceland. But you can book your tickets at the sky lagoon website and we are sure you will enjoy yourself.
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