Region
South Iceland
77 km from Reykjavik
Laugarvatn: Golden Circle's Geothermal Retreat
A charming lakeside village between Thingvellir and Geysir, famed for its natural hot springs and steaming geothermal baths.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~200
South Iceland • Golden Circle stop
Laugarvatn is a small village on the northern shore of its namesake lake in South Iceland. Situated squarely on the Golden Circle between Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area, the village has long served as a natural gathering place thanks to its warm springs. The Fontana geothermal baths have made Laugarvatn a destination in its own right, offering visitors steam rooms built over bubbling hot springs and the unique experience of tasting rye bread baked underground by geothermal heat.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Population and distance figures based on official Icelandic statistics and local tourism sources.
Sources to check
Population
~200
Lakeside geothermal village
Known for
Fontana geothermal baths
Hot springs & geothermal bread
Top Attractions near Laugarvatn
Laugarvatn Fontana
Geothermal spa with steam rooms over natural hot springs, warm pools overlooking the lake, and daily geothermal rye bread baking demonstrations.
Thingvellir National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Site just 25 km west, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly drift apart and Iceland's parliament was founded in 930 AD.
Geysir Geothermal Area
The original geyser that gave all geysers their name lies 35 km east. The active Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 metres high.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Iceland's most famous waterfall thunders into a deep canyon just 45 km east of Laugarvatn, an essential Golden Circle stop.
Bruarfoss Waterfall
A striking blue waterfall on the Bruara river accessible via a scenic hiking trail, located roughly 20 km east of the village.
Lake Laugarvatn
The geothermally warmed lake itself offers lakeside walks, birdwatching, and a refreshing dip near the warm springs along its shore.
How to Get to Laugarvatn
From Reykjavik: Take Route 36 through Thingvellir National Park, then Route 365 to Laugarvatn. The 77 km drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. Alternatively, take Route 1 south and Route 37 east for a slightly longer but easier road.
Bus service: Summer bus services operated by Reykjavik Excursions run along the Golden Circle and stop in Laugarvatn. Most visitors drive independently or join Golden Circle day tours from Reykjavik.
Best Time to Visit Laugarvatn
Summer: June through August offers pleasant temperatures (12-18 °C), midnight sun, and the full range of outdoor activities including lakeside walks and camping. Peak Golden Circle tourist season.
Winter: September to March brings fewer crowds and the chance to soak in Fontana's pools under the northern lights. The village is accessible year-round, and the geothermal baths are especially atmospheric on snowy days.
Planning help
Laugarvatn FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.