Iceland's Regional Hot Springs
From World-Famous Spas to Hidden Highland Gems — by Region
Hot springs are found across all regions of Iceland, but are most concentrated in the South, Reykjanes Peninsula, North Iceland, and the Westfjords. The high-temperature geothermal areas follow volcanic zones. This guide covers the best options in each region.
Southwest Iceland
World-class destinations near Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport. Iceland's hot springs span every type of experience, from the world-renowned Blue Lagoon to intimate natural pools known only to locals.
- Blue Lagoon (Grindavík, 45 min): Iconic milky blue waters, 37–39°C, 7,000–20,000 ISK. Book essential. Silica mud masks, restaurant, spa treatments.
- Secret Lagoon (Flúðir, 90 min): Iceland's oldest natural pool (1891), 38–40°C, 3,000–4,000 ISK. Historic, Golden Circle route, geysir nearby.
- Reykjadalur (Hveragerði, 45 min + hike): Free geothermal river, 36–40°C. 45-minute hike each way. Hot river, hiking, steam vents.
- Sky Lagoon (15 min from Reykjavík): 38–40°C, 7,000–18,000 ISK. Ocean views, 7-step spa ritual, infinity edge.
- Hrunalaug (near Flúðir): Small intimate pool, 38–40°C, Golden Circle route, free.
Northern Iceland
Volcanic landscapes and authentic geothermal experiences near Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's most geologically active regions.
- Mývatn Nature Baths (5 hours from Reykjavík): 36–40°C, 5,000–6,500 ISK. Lake and lava field views, less crowded, volcanic area.
- Grjótagjá Cave (near Mývatn): 50°C+ — too hot for bathing, look only. Famous Game of Thrones filming location. Free.
- Grettislaug (North Iceland): 39–42°C, two pools connected to saga hero Grettir, fjord views. Small fee.
Eastern Iceland
Remote fjords and innovative geothermal experiences away from the tourist crowds.
- Vök Baths (Urriðavatn Lake): Floating infinity pools, 38–42°C, 4,000–5,500 ISK. Lake views, tea service, saunas.
Wild & Remote Springs
Adventure required — authentic Icelandic geothermal experiences for those willing to put in the effort.
- Strútslaug (Highlands): ~40°C, 4WD + 1.5-hour hike required, free, no facilities. Complete wilderness experience.
- Hellulaug (Westfjords): 38–42°C, ocean cliff views, capacity 2–3 people. Free, stunning sunset views.
- Seljavallalaug (South Iceland): 25–40°C, 15-minute hike from Ring Road, built 1923, free. Hidden valley atmosphere.
- Landmannalaugar (Highlands): 40–80°C in surrounding springs (bathing pool is comfortable). Free. Summer only via F208. Starting point for Laugavegur trail.
Hot Springs Comparison
Key factors when choosing a hot spring: distance from Reykjavík, cost, crowd level, and what's included.
- Closest to Reykjavík: Sky Lagoon (15 min), Blue Lagoon (45 min), Reykjadalur (45 min + hike)
- Best value: Reykjadalur (free), Secret Lagoon (3,000–4,000 ISK), municipal pools (500–1,000 ISK)
- Least crowded: wild springs, Vök Baths, Grettislaug
- Most facilities: Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths
- Best Northern Lights potential (winter): Mývatn Nature Baths, Vök Baths, outdoor municipal pools
Safety Information
Wild hot springs are fragile ecosystems. Many are on private land or protected areas. Always research access rights, test water temperature before entering, and follow Leave No Trace principles. Some springs exceed 80°C. For highland springs, register travel plans at Safetravel.is and carry emergency communications.