About
Spas, hot tubs, and pools are a cross-cultural tradition popular in all corners of the world throughout history. The Ancient Egyptians, Romans, Ancient Greeks, Japanese, and of course the Nords. would bathe for hygiene, relaxation, and healing effects. Iceland has a long history of warm baths due to the prevalence of hot water bubbling up to the earth's surface.
Snorralaug is one of the oldest standing baths in Iceland and dates back to the 10th century. And, it is still warm (most of the time). It is fed through a conduit by a nearby hot spring called Skrifla.
There is an endless number of pools, lagoons, tubs, rivers, and places to experience Icelandic bathing culture. I suggest you try as many as you can. Relaxing in warm water and nature is a great way to punctuate your travels.
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Lagoons
Blue Lagoon
Located within lava fields midway between the International Airport and Reykjavík. It is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland. Its rich and unique mineral content is provided by underground geological layers which the hot water passes through before going into the lagoon. These minerals are good for the skin and the constant flow of water has the whole lagoon replenish itself within a couple of days.
TIP:
Book your tickets ahead of time, the busiest hours can be fully booked months in advance.
There are regular buses to and from Reykjavík and the airport. Ending your trip here before going on your flight is a strong move. 4$ per bag luggage storage on site.
2. Sky Lagoon
I recently visited for the first time, I had some reservations about this new spa located within the capital area. But I was pleasantly surprised by its awe inspiring Viking/modern/Icelandic nature design and calm atmosphere. The 7-step spa Ritual is unique and the ocean-side infinity lagoon provides a beautiful view.
Tip: Do not skip the Ritual! It is the icing on the cake. Get at least a Pure Pass.
Tip: Kids under 12 are not allowed in, that helps create a tranquil environment.
Pro Tip: The Blue Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon make for a very nice date!
3. Secret Lagoon
Located in the south of Iceland about 1.5 hours from Reykjavík (close to Geysir). It dates back to 1891 and is the oldest man-made pool in Iceland. A nearby hot spring feeds hot water to it replacing the lagoon in 24 hours. It is smaller and less sophisticated than its counterparts but in return, we get history, nature, and simplicity. An added benefit is you can walk and check out the hot springs nearby.
4. Mývatn Nature Baths
This one is in the north of Iceland, an hour's drive from Akureyri the second biggest city in Iceland. Sometimes it is referred to as the Blue Lagoon of the North. This is a great place to have a relaxing dip during your travels in the North. Mývatn is one of the coolest places in Iceland, packed with fantastic land features.
Hot Spring Bathing
5. Hvammsvík Hot Springs
This one is new and people are loving it. Bathe in eight natural hot springs that blend into the ocean on a beach in Hvalfjord. The springs have varying temperatures with a view of one of Iceland's most beautiful fjords.
I first went here with local Hvalfjörður inhabitants many years ago and we would jump in the cold ocean then warm up in the hot spring. Since then they have expanded, opened up to the public, and made a fantastic spot to visit.
TIP: Check when the High tides are so that the rock hot springs blend into the ocean by scrolling down their front page hvammsvik.com
TIP: Hvalfjörður is a beautiful fjord often skipped due to the under-ocean tunnel shortcut. Consider doing a trip around the fjord since you are already there.
Pools
There is an endless amount of swimming Pools in Iceland. They have low to no added chemical content, just geothermal goodness. My favorite in Reykjavík are Árbæjarlaug, Kópavogslaug, and Laugardalslaug. Simply check one out that is close to you and go for a dip.
Check this out! a map of all Swimming Pools in Iceland
This map does not include hot spring baths or lagoons
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