Iceland tours continue unaffected. Read about the latest eruption
Iceland tours continue unaffected. Read about the latest eruption
Laugarvatn Fontana Spa is a natural retreat for wholesome relaxation, situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Laugarvatn. Embrace the restorative powers of the spa's geothermal waters, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Icelandic landscape.
The Fontana Spa is located in the picturesque village of Laugarvatn, just off the famous Golden Circle route. Nestled along the serene Lake Laugarvatn, the spa’s geothermal baths offer a revitalizing wellness escape. It’s about 77 kilometers (47.8 miles) from Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, and around 29 kilometers (18 miles) from the Geysir Geothermal Area and the Gullfoss Waterfall.
There are several ways to get to Laugarvatn Fontana Spa, depending on where you are and your preferred way of getting around. Here are some of the options:
Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn is renowned for its unique geothermal experience. The blend of connected outdoor mineral pools, steam rooms, and the refreshing cold waters of Lake Laugarvatn offers a wholesome wellness treat. The spa's pools are sourced directly from the local geothermal springs, providing a natural mineral bath experience. The mineral-rich waters are believed to offer a range of health benefits, including improved blood circulation, reduced muscle tension, and improved skin condition. Here, you will find pools of different depths, temperatures, and ambiance to choose from.
There are two unique steam rooms and a traditional Finnish-style sauna, providing a range of temperature and humidity options for optimal effects. The steam rooms are built directly over the geothermal springs, allowing visitors to hear and feel the bubbling waters beneath their feet. As a refreshing contrast, Laugarvatn Fontana Spa features a unique ice bath for visitors to experience the energizing effects of alternating hot and cold water.
Complementing the spa experience, the local geothermal bakery offers freshly baked rye bread cooked in the natural heat of the geothermal springs. This traditional activity, passed down through generations, adds to the overall atmosphere of the complex.
The village of Laugarvatn established its first spa in 1929, utilizing the natural geothermal waters for bathing and therapeutic purposes. This gave the initial start to the modern spa complex that stands today.
In 2011, the complex was renovated in order to showcase the modern design in harmony with the natural environment. The spa's facilities now boast connected open-air pools, steam rooms, a sauna, and an ice bath, all infused with the healing powers of geothermal energy.
Laugarvatn has a long history of being used for its geothermal waters. In 1000 AD, some chieftains did not want to be baptized in the ice-cold water of Lake Thingvallavatn, but rather in the warm springs of Laugarvatn. One of these fountains is called Vigdalaug, located just near the spa.
Centuries after Iceland's conversion to Protestantism, its last Catholic bishop, Jon Arason (1484 - 1550), was executed together with his son during the Reformation movement. Their remains were later exhumed, ritualistically bathed at Vigdalaug, and re-buried at Hólar, a former episcopal seat in Northern Iceland.
The main pick of Laugarvatn Fontana Spa is undoubtedly its geothermal pools, which draw their mineral-rich waters from the surrounding hot springs. These pools offer varying temperatures, allowing you to customize your experience.
After a soak in the pools, visitors can relax in steam rooms and saunas while inhaling the eucalyptus scents. Three steam rooms, each with its own unique atmosphere, provide a range of temperatures and aromas to choose from.
Enhance your experience by indulging in a range of luxurious spa treatments to rejuvenate your mind and body. From soothing massages to cleansing body scrubs, each treatment is tailored to address your needs and leave you feeling refreshed, and deeply relaxed.
You are also welcome to the bread-baking session over a geothermal steam vent. This traditional method provides a unique culinary experience. Feel the warmth as you watch the bread rise and bake to perfection, then enjoy a slice of this freshly prepared delicacy.
The complex is truly a year-round destination, providing relaxation sessions during the summer and warm escapes in winter. Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal baths offer stunning views of the night sky with minimum light pollution. The warm pools will keep you cozy while you wait for the Northern Lights to appear in the colder season.
