Region
Northeast Iceland
55 km from Akureyri
Laugar: Hot-Spring Village in Reykjadalur
A tiny geothermal village in Reykjadalur valley, named for its hot springs and known for its swimming pool.
Population
~150
Northeast Iceland • Geothermal area
Laugar (meaning "hot springs") is a tiny settlement in the geothermally active Reykjadalur valley. Small as it is, its swimming pool, fed by natural hot springs, is known throughout Iceland. Few tour buses stop here, so the bathing culture stays local and unhurried.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Laugar swimming pool is a local favorite; arrive early in peak season to avoid crowds.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Population
~150
Small geothermal community
Known for
Geothermal Pool
Pool fed by natural hot springs
Top Attractions in Laugar
Laugar Swimming Pool
Geothermal pool with hot pots and slides
Reykjadalur Valley
Geothermally active 'Valley of Steam'
Natural Hot Springs
Steaming springs throughout the area
Valley Hiking Trails
Walks through the geothermal landscape
Bird Watching
Varied birdlife in the valley wetlands
Northern Lights
Dark skies in winter
How to Get to Laugar
From Akureyri: 50 minutes via Route 1 south, then Route 845 into Reykjadalur valley.
From Reykjavik: About 5.5 hours via Route 1 (Ring Road), turning onto Route 845.
Note: A car is essential; there's no regular public transport to the valley.
Best Time to Visit Laugar
Year-round: The geothermal pool operates year-round. Winter brings Northern Lights and the chance to swim in hot water while snow lies all around.
Summer: Best for hiking the valley trails and exploring the geothermal features in mild weather.
Planning help
Laugar FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.