The popularity of Iceland is readily evident in its simple beauty. This beauty comes from its abundance of water and its abundance of geothermal energy as well as the glaciers. While its people have brought simple, yet interesting architecture, the real reason to visit Iceland is to experience first-hand the magical wonders of nature including the Northern Lights, the Midnight Sun, the volcanoes, the black beaches, the highlands, the mountains, and the wildlife including the whales and the Icelandic horses. The hot springs, however, make a visit to Iceland most pleasurable. These are our favorite hot springs in Iceland.
Blue Lagoon
Probably the most familiar in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit spot on your trip. Touted as one of the 25 wonders of the world, you’ll need to book your visit before your trip. Whether you visit in the winter or the summer, the Blue Lagoon is stunning. There are also two excellent options for accommodation at the Blue Lagoon. The Silica Hotel which features 35 rooms, a private bathing lagoon, and breathtaking views. You can also stay at The Retreat which features 62 elegant suites encircled by the Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters. The Blue Lagoon is the perfect starting point for your visit to the hot springs of Iceland.
Mývatn Nature Baths
Similar in color and texture as the Blue Lagoon, the Mývatn Nature Baths are the perfect follow-up. The Mývatn Nature Baths are located in the Lake Mývatn Geothermal Area in northern Iceland.
The lagoon itself is a man-made construction, its bottom is covered by sand and gravel. The characteristics of the water are unique in many ways. It contains a large amount of minerals, is alkaline and well suited for bathing. Due to its chemical composition, undesired bacteria and vegetation do not thrive in the lagoon making chloride or any other disinfectant redundant.”
You’ll also be able to enjoy a steam bath right on top of a geothermal area, and the lovely Kvika Restaurant will provide much-needed nourishment on your journey.
Laugarvatn Fontana
Known as the Icelandic fountain of wellness, Laugarvatn Fontana “is located in the center of the most popular tourist route in Iceland, the Colden Circle.”
A unique experience of the healing powers of the geothermal springs. Soak in a natural pool, listen to the bubbling hot spring in the steam rooms, or for the venturesome, take a dip in the refreshing lake.
You may also experience a Finnish-style sauna after your steam. These saunas, known as Ylur in Finnish, is hot (176-194 degrees) but less humid than a steam room. They then suggest ending your visit with a dip in the lake.
Completing the ensemble is the lake itself and the beach. Bathers can walk into the cool lake from a pier or walk on the warm black sand beach. A cool dip in between the hot steam rooms and sauna is a refreshing temperature shift for the healthy hearted. Cold bathing is believed to have beneficial health effects, such as improving blood circulation, speeding up muscle soreness and recovery. It has also been shown to be beneficial for those suffering from arthritis and other joint illnesses.
While there you can also visit their Geothermal Bakery to experience the Icelandic way of making pot-baked lava bread. You might also stop at Local Kitchen for a delicious lunch or dinner buffet.
Aside from our top three hot springs, which are locations to visit that are structured, you’ll find spots around the country that are worth a look as well – especially if you’re quite comfortable in nature. These spots include Laugafellslaug, Grettislaug, Reykjadalur, and, of course, the caves of Grjótagjá. Have you visited any hot springs in Iceland? Perhaps after your rejuvenating visit to the hot springs of Iceland, you’ll want to visit our picks for the best hot springs in the world.
