ReykjanesGeothermal spa
Blue Lagoon
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa. Milky-blue water rich in silica and minerals. Pre-booking required.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs in Iceland: Spas, Rivers & Natural Pools
From geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon to wild highland rivers, Iceland's hot springs are scattered across every region. Access and facilities vary a lot.
Safety first
Use designated bathing places
Unmarked springs can be scalding. Stay out of them and keep to marked paths.
Quick Answer
Iceland's hot springs range from spas like the Blue Lagoon to highland bathing streams such as Landmannalaugar. Where to go, safety notes, and bathing etiquette.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Geothermal areas can pose burn and gas risks, so always follow on-site warnings and stay on marked paths.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
South IcelandNatural pool
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
Iceland's oldest natural pool in Flúðir. More relaxed atmosphere than Blue Lagoon. Open year-round.
North IcelandGeothermal spa
Earth Lagoon Mývatn
North Iceland's answer to the Blue Lagoon. Alkaline water with views over Lake Mývatn's volcanic landscape.
South IcelandHot river
Reykjadalur Hot River
A geothermally heated river you bathe in after a 3.5 km hike. Temperature varies along the stream, so pick a spot that suits you.
South IcelandHistoric pool
Seljavallalaug
Built in 1923, one of Iceland's oldest pools. Set in a mountain valley. Free but unmaintained; expect algae.
HighlandsHighland hot spring
Landmannalaugar
Natural hot stream amid colorful rhyolite mountains. Highland F-road access; summer only. Starting point for the Laugavegur trail.
South IcelandNatural pool
Hrunalaug
Tiny historic hot pot on private land near Flúðir. Paid admission with a 90-minute visit limit. No reservations; admission depends on available space.
HighlandsCrater lake
Víti Crater at Askja
Warm milky-blue lake inside a volcanic crater. Highland F-road access only. Do not assume bathing is permitted: check with rangers. The descent has rockfall and slipping hazards.
West IcelandHot spring
Deildartunguhver
Europe's most powerful hot spring at 180 liters/second of near-boiling water. Do NOT touch the water; it is scalding.
North IcelandGeothermal spa
GeoSea
Infinity-edge geothermal baths in Húsavík with views over Skjálfandi Bay. Seawater heated by geothermal energy.
West IcelandGeothermal spa
Hvammsvik
Eight seaside hot springs on Hvalfjörður. Tidal pools that mix geothermal water with the ocean. Pre-booking required.
Compare what admission actually includes
A lower ticket price can mean a different changing arrangement or an extra towel charge. Hvammsvík separates open showers in its Natural package from private showers in Classic; its minimum age is ten. Earth Lagoon Mývatn includes private showers in Essential and adds a towel and drink in Signature.
For families, Secret Lagoon charges for children aged fourteen and under and limits accompanying children per adult. For a small natural pool, Hrunalaug uses a 90-minute visit and admission without reservations. Check these terms before choosing solely from photographs.
Current details are linked and dated in each guide. These comparisons use Hvammsvík, Earth Lagoon, Secret Lagoon and Hrunalaug operator information checked 10 September 2026.
Planning help
Hot springs FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How dangerous are Iceland's hot springs?
Use designated bathing places. Unmarked springs may be boiling, and the ground around vents can be fragile. Do not touch an unknown spring to test it or step off a marked path to reach it. Keep children close and obey any access restrictions.
Are there toxic gases near hot springs?
Some geothermal areas release hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell) and other volcanic gases. In poorly ventilated areas, especially caves or depressions near springs, these gases can be dangerous. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, move to fresh air immediately.
When is the best time to visit Icelandic hot springs?
Commercial spas like Blue Lagoon and Earth Lagoon Mývatn are open year-round. Natural springs like Landmannalaugar are only accessible in summer (roughly June–September) due to highland road closures. Winter visits to open-air pools are worth it too; bathing under northern lights is a highlight.
What should I bring to a natural hot spring?
Bring a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, waterproof bag for electronics, and water shoes for rocky river beds. For remote springs, pack snacks and water. Leave no trace: carry out all waste.
What is the etiquette at Icelandic hot springs?
At staffed pools and spas, follow the required washing and shower routine before entering. Natural sites may have no showers; do not add soap to their water. Respect admission rules on private land: Hrunalaug has a set entry fee and visit limit rather than an optional donation.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.