Feature
Floating pools
Iceland's only geothermal pools on a lake
Vök Baths: Floating Geothermal Pools in East Iceland
Iceland\'s only floating geothermal infinity pools, built out over a natural lake near Egilsstaðir.
Location
East Iceland
Near Egilsstaðir • Opened 2019
Quick Answer
Vök Baths are Iceland's only floating geothermal pools, built out over Lake Urriðavatn about 5 km north of Egilsstaðir in East Iceland. The 38–40°C water rises naturally from springs beneath the lake, with designated access to the cool lake itself for contrast bathing. Opened in 2019, the baths stay quiet year-round, far from the crowds of the south and west.
Vök Baths opened in 2019 on the shores of Lake Urriðavatn near Egilsstaðir. The facility has Iceland\'s only floating geothermal pools, which extend out over the lake, connected by walkways. Warm water rising naturally from the lake floor has been used here for centuries; the modern facility draws on the same springs.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Open year-round. Check seasonal hours on the website.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Temperature
38–40°C
Naturally heated by geothermal springs below the lake
Setting
Lake Urriðavatn
Forested lakeside with mountain views
What to Expect
Floating Pools at 38-40°C
Geothermal pools at 38-40°C extend over the lake surface on architectural walkways. Water heated naturally by springs rising from the lake floor
Award-Winning Architecture
The glass-and-timber facility, designed by Basalt Architects, sits low against the lakeshore and has received international design recognition
Cold Lake Plunge
Designated access allows you to jump into the cool Lake Urriðavatn (10-15°C in summer) for contrast bathing between warm soaks
Changing Facilities & Towels
Modern changing rooms with showers, lockers, and hair dryers. Towels included in admission. Bring your own swimsuit
On-Site Café & Bar
A lakeside café serves local dishes, Icelandic craft beer, and hot drinks with views over the water
Fewer Crowds
Far from the tourist traffic of the south and west, Vök Baths stays quiet year-round
Getting There
Vök Baths are located on the shores of Lake Urriðavatn, approximately 5 km north of Egilsstaðir along Route 1. The facility is well-signposted from the main road. Free on-site parking is available. Egilsstaðir is the nearest town (5 km) with fuel, shops, and restaurants. The Egilsstaðir airport is just 3 km away, with domestic flights from Reykjavík (1 hour flight). By car from Reykjavík, the drive is approximately 650 km via Route 1 (7-8 hours). No 4WD is required; the route is paved year-round.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. June through August: long evening light with sunset reflecting off the lake, and the cool lake water for contrast bathing. September through October: autumn foliage around the lake and very few visitors. November through February: snow-covered surroundings and potential northern lights; East Iceland has some of the darkest skies in the country for aurora viewing. March through May: returning daylight with the lake still framed by winter scenery. East Iceland is consistently less crowded than the south and west.
Pricing
The main adult price list shows 7,690 ISK (checked September 10, 2026). Various packages are available including café vouchers. East Iceland sees fewer crowds, so walk-ins are often possible. Online booking is recommended for weekend visits in summer. Check the Vök Baths website for current pricing and seasonal hours.
Check the Vök price and hours page when choosing an evening visit: the published schedule changes from 10:00–23:00 to 12:00–22:00 on September 16. Guests leave the pools 15 minutes before closing. Basic admission includes a herbal tea, while a towel costs 1,390 ISK to rent; compare that with any package that includes one. Figures checked September 10, 2026.
Vök’s accessibility FAQ says a specialised wheelchair is available for entering the pools. Contact the baths before your visit to confirm the equipment and assistance you need, rather than assuming the floating-pool layout rules out access.
Planning help
Vök Baths FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
Do the pools actually float on the lake?
Yes, the pools are built on platforms extending over Lake Urriðavatn, creating a floating effect. The geothermal water rises naturally from springs beneath the lake.
Do I need to book Vök Baths in advance?
Reserve the visit that fits your itinerary and confirm the chosen package and arrival time. Do not depend on regional crowd comparisons to predict walk-in availability.
How much do Vök Baths cost?
The main price list gives 7,690 ISK for adults 16+, 3,590 ISK for ages 6–15 and free admission for ages 0–5, checked September 10, 2026. Basic admission includes herbal tea; towel rental is separate. Confirm the total for your selected package before booking.
Can I swim in the lake itself?
Yes, there is designated access to the cool lake water for contrast bathing between the warm geothermal pools.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.