Introduction to Icelandic bathing culture
Iceland is known not only for its breathtaking nature and beautiful landscapes, but also for its abundance of geothermal energy, with over 90% of the country’s hot water being heated by geothermal sources. Icelandic hot water is therefore incredibly accessible and widely used to heat the country’s geothermal pools and spas, which play a large role in Icelandic bathing culture. Bathing culture, hot springs, and geothermal pools can be traced back to a time in history when public baths played an important role in communing and connecting with nature.
Read the Iceland Review article about Icelandic swimming culture here.
Bathing is deeply ingrained in Icelandic culture, and you can find hot springs and geothermal pools all over the country. Below is a guide to Iceland’s bathing culture and about Iceland’s hot springs, spas, and geothermal pools.
geothermal public pool in iceland
Public pools in Iceland are located throughout the country, and most are geothermally heated. Icelandic pools are open all year round, allowing guests to visit them in almost any weather.
Visiting Iceland’s geothermal pools isn’t just for exercise. Pools are also social spaces, hotspots where people gather and discuss topics such as politics, weather, and other cultural issues. Below is information about some of Iceland’s geothermal pools.
Sandhel Reykjavíkur
Sandhel Reykjavíkur is Iceland’s oldest public pool and the only public pool in downtown Reykjavík. However, there are many more facilities in the area. Sundhöll Reykjavíkur is located in his Barónsstígur and consists of indoor and outdoor pools, hot tub, children’s pool, cold bath and sauna.
Sundrougin Hovsosi
The award-winning Hofsos swimming pool is located in northwestern Iceland. It is unique in that it has an infinity pool overlooking the beautiful landscape of Skagafjordur fjord. The pool was donated to the Hofsoss community on June 19, 2007, Icelandic Women’s Rights Day, by two businesswomen, Lilja Palmadóttir and Steinnun Jónsdóttir.
Laugascals Swimming Pool
Laugarskarð swimming pool is located in the town of Hveragerdi in southern Iceland. Hveragerdi is only a 30-40 minute drive from the capital. Hveragerdi is a vast geothermal area with several natural hot springs surrounding it, where you can bake the famous Icelandic rye bread or boil your eggs.
Crossneslaug Swimming Pool
Krossneslaug swimming pool is located in a secluded part of the Westfjords of Iceland. The pool is an infinity pool and overlooks the ocean, overlooking northern Iceland where you may even spot whales.
Note: Due to road conditions, Crosneslaug is only accessible from mid-May to the end of August.
Akureyri swimming pool
Akureyri Swimming Pool is located in Akureyri, northern Iceland, the country’s second largest city. The pool is located in the city center and consists of a heated pool, hot tub, children’s pool, water tub, sauna and 3 waterslides.
Icelandic geothermal spa experience
In addition to many public pools, Iceland also has several geothermal spas, one of the most famous being the Blue Lagoon. Geothermal spas have become increasingly popular in recent years, and you can find them in multiple regions of Iceland. Below are some of the famous geothermal spas in Iceland.
blue lagoon
The Blue Lagoon was founded in 1992 and was named one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic in 2012. The lagoon offers a unique spa experience where the beneficial powers of geothermal seawater are derived from the main elements of water: silica, algae, and water. mineral. Since its opening, the lagoon has become a top tourist attraction. Some guests come for the healing power of water, while others come for relaxation and natural beauty.
The Blue Lagoon is located near the town of Grindavik. The town is about a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik and about 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport.
Blue Lagoon tours can be purchased here.
Sky Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Sky Lagoon opened in 2021 and is located just a 10-minute drive from Reykjavík city centre. The hot springs feature a heated infinity pool where you can relax with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Sky Lagoon offers unique spa experiences, including a seven-step bathing ritual that immerses guests in Icelandic bathing culture.
Sky Lagoon Tours can be purchased here.
Skogarbogin – Forest Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Skogarbogin, or Forest Lagoon, is a geothermal spa located in the Vázlaskogur forest in northern Iceland. As the name suggests, the lagoon is surrounded by trees such as birches and pines, and also overlooks the sea and nearby fjords. Forest He Lagoon is just a 5 minute drive from Akureyri city centre.
Tickets for Forest Lagoon can be purchased here.
Hvanmsvik Spa and Thermal Baths
Hvammsvik Nature Resort & Hot Springs is located in Hvarfjordur Fjord in southwestern Iceland. The spa is located in a secluded location, surrounded by beautiful scenery of high mountains and black beaches. The spa is easily accessible from Reykjavik city center, just a 45-minute drive.
You can purchase tours of Hvanmsvik here.
Secluded hot springs and pools in Iceland
Iceland’s natural hot springs are located throughout the country and are evidence of the country’s rich geothermal resources. Geological activity in this country manifests itself in many ways. Activities range from powerful geysers, bubbling mud pots, and relaxing natural hot springs that are ready to soak.
Hot springs are more than just luxurious spas and public pools. Iceland also has many more secluded hot springs. Below are some of the many natural and secluded hot springs in Iceland.
Secret Lagoon Geothermal Pool
The Secret Lagoon, or Gamla Rogin, is located in the village of Furgir in southern Iceland. It is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland, built in 1891. You can spend a relaxing time soaking in the warm water gushing out from the hot springs.
You can purchase the Secret Lagoon Tour here.
Reykjadalur hot springs
Reykjadalur Valley is located near the town of Hveragerdi, approximately 50 km away. [31 mil] Originally from Reykjavik. It takes about 45 to 60 minutes to reach the hot springs by climbing a gentle road. Actually, this hot spring is like a stream, and it’s quite shallow, so it’s very pleasant to lie down and soak in it.
You can purchase the Reykjadalur Hot Springs Tour here.
Furunalau hot springs
Furnalaug, located near Furjir village in the Furnamannareppur region, is a hot spring known for its relaxing properties. Visitors enjoy Iceland’s beautiful natural surroundings while soaking in warm water.
Seljavaraug geothermal pool
Seljavarraug Pool is located in the Seljavellir Valley, about a 3-hour drive from Reykjavík. The valley is secluded, surrounded by mountains and offers beautiful views of cliff sides, grassy hills and rivers. It’s about a 15-20 minute scenic walk from the Selcavellir Gorge parking lot to the pool.
Landbrotaug Hot Springs
Thermal springs Landbrotalaug are located just off the main road on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Visitors cannot always find it easily, making it a very secluded and quiet place. After turning off from the main road on the peninsula, there is a dirt road. Eventually, visitors will be greeted by a sign that reads “Heit Laug, Hot Springs”, letting them know they have arrived at the correct destination.
What are the rules and etiquette when visiting pools and hot springs in Iceland?
Following certain rules and etiquette that encompass Icelandic bathing culture allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience, making it positive and respectful for everyone.
take a shower before entering
If you are visiting a hot spring or geothermal pool in Iceland, you should shower without wearing a swimsuit before entering the pool, if possible. In some places, such as Reykjadalur Hot Springs, showers are not available. Therefore, although not required, we encourage other bathers to do so as a courtesy by arriving in clean condition. Many pools have enclosed changing rooms and showers for privacy.
Please wear a swimsuit
Swimsuits are compulsory when visiting Iceland’s pools and hot springs. However, before you put on your swimsuit, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t shower without it.
take off outdoor shoes
You must take off your outdoor shoes before entering the changing room.
Follow facility-specific rules
Different pools and spas may follow their own rules and guidelines, so it’s important to read and respect the rules posted at each facility.
respect nature
When visiting Iceland’s natural pools and hot springs, it is important to observe and enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings, as well as respect and treat nature with care. Respecting the delicate landscapes and ecosystems ensures that future generations can enjoy these unique places.
Respect for nature requires walking on designated paths, refraining from using soap and other substances that can have a negative impact on the ecosystem, and removing all waste and leaving no trace .
How many pools are there in Iceland?
There are over 160 pools in Iceland, approximately 18 of which are located in Reykjavík, making it easy for travelers to find the nearest bathing spot.
What is Iceland’s most famous pool?
Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal pools are very popular with locals. But the most famous pool, spa or hot spring in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon was named one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic. It is a huge tourist attraction and luxurious spa experience for travelers from all over the world.
How much does it cost to enter a pool in Iceland?
The average price for a public pool in Iceland is approximately ISK 1000 per adult. However, it really depends on what area you’re in and which pool you’re in.