People have enjoyed natural hot springs in Iceland since the Viking Age. Nowadays there are so many Iceland hot springs to choose from that it’s hard to decide where to go. To help narrow down your choices, here’s our list of the five best hot springs in Iceland:
1. The Blue Lagoon on Reykjanes Peninsula
The Blue Lagoon on Reykjanes Peninsula is the most popular hot spring in Iceland. The man-made lagoon’s mineral-rich waters stay at a constant temperature between 37° and 40°C (98° and 104°F).
The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located only 20 minutes from Keflavik International Airport. Many travelers plan a stop there either at the beginning or the end of their Iceland journey. The price of entrance to the Blue Lagoon starts at $47 USD.
2. Seljavallalaug on Iceland’s South Coast
Seljavallalaug is an iconic hot spring located between Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls on the South Coast of Iceland. Built in 1923, the hot spring is the oldest man-made pool in Iceland and boasts a temperature of roughly 20°-30°C (68°-86°F).
Enjoy Seljavallalaug’s green-colored waters as you sit in the 25-meter-long pool. The pool has no entry fee and offers basic changing facilities.
3. Myvatn Nature Baths in North Iceland
The Mývatn Nature Baths are a set of pools in the Lake Mývatn region of North Iceland. The baths are a cheaper substitute to the Blue Lagoon as they feature the same blue-colored waters.
Mývatn Nature Baths are a top choice for travelers who seek a soak amid isolated, otherworldly landscapes. The baths have a temperature of between 36° and 40°C (97° and 104°F). The cost of entry is 34 USD minimum.
4. Landmannalaugar in the Southern Highlands
The Landmannalaugar hot spring is located in the multicolored mountains of Iceland’s Southern Highlands. If you plan on going on an adventure along the world-famous Laugavegur Trail, a stop at Landmannalaugar is strongly recommended.
The hot spring’s 36°-40°C (97°-104°F) water is perfect for relaxing sore muscles at the end of a day’s hike. In winter, the Landmannalaugar area is also a great place to gaze up at the Northern Lights. Enjoy free entry to the hot springs.
5. Grettislaug Hot Pool on Iceland’s North Coast
Grettislaug is a geothermal pool located near the cliffs of Drangey Island in North Iceland. Also known as “Grettir’s Pool,” the pool’s name comes from the story of the Viking outlaw Grettir. The outlaw is said to have revived himself in Grettislaug after a grueling swim from his imprisonment at Drangey.
The temperature at Grettislaug is a steady 39°C (102°F). The small but stunning pool is a must-do for anyone exploring Iceland’s Ring Road, which is only a 50-minute-drive away. A small entry fee is required to access Grettislaug.
