The Best Icelandic Hot Springs in Europe

Planning a trip to Iceland soon? Check out this post for the best Icelandic hot springs to visit in Europe!

As someone who is planning a trip to Iceland soon, the only thing I know about the country so far is that it’s known for its aurora, volcanoes and glaciers. However, what I didn’t know about Iceland is that it’s also a hub for some of the best Icelandic hot springs in Europe! So, for those you who are not familiar with a hot spring, it’s essentially a place where groundwater is heated by geothermal energy. Soaking yourselves in these springs is very popular in Iceland since it’s a great way to detox the skin, increase one’s circulation, relax the mind and relieve pain. So, if you’re planning a trip to Iceland soon, be sure to pack a swimsuit! You’ll need one to enjoy all of the hot springs Iceland has to offer!

Blue Lagoon (Icelandic Hot Springs)

As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland, Blue Lagoon sets the scene with steamy blue water against a black lava rock landscape. Close to Keflavik Airport, this lagoon is the perfect pit stop if you’re in Reykjavik for a few days or if you have a layover. In fact, in the lagoon, you’ll also notice that the water is about 100 degrees in Fahrenheit and it’s rich in minerals like silica and sulfur. These minerals together contain therapeutic properties that can heal various skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema. So, if you’re interested in checking out the Blue Lagoon for yourself, you better save up! Entrance to the Blue Lagoon ranges from about ISK 6900 ($55) to ISK 12000 ($476).

Secret Lagoon (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Known as the Gamla Laugin, the Secret Lagoon is the oldest swimming pool located in Iceland. Made in 1891, the lagoon was originally a secret because it was not well known. However, these days, the lagoon has not been so secret. Located on the famous Golden Circle, you can find the lagoon hidden between Gullfoss and Selfoss, two of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. In fact, compared to the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon is less busy, cheaper, and more authentic. So, if you’re interested in checking out the Secret Lagoon for yourself, you can purchase your admission ticket here.

Mývatn Nature Baths (Icelandic Hot Springs)

The North’s version of the Blue Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths are the best hot springs to go to be surrounded by Iceland’s spectacular nature. Comprised of minerals and silicates, the nature baths themselves are beneficial for the skin and spirit. In fact, compared to the Blue Lagoon, no reservation is needed to visit these hot springs. Everyone is welcome to soak in them for as long as they may need or want. So, if you’re interested in checking out the Myvatn Nature Baths yourself, take note. From Reykjavik, these hot springs are about 5 hours away.

Grjotagja (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Seen in the Game of Thrones, Grjotagja is a lava cave based in Iceland where Jon Snow, Prince of Dragonstone, lost his virginity. On Season 3 episode “Kissed by Fire” in Game of Thrones, Jon Snow used the secret cave as a way to seal his deal with Ygritte, a woman who eventually became his lover.

Although it is not used as a sex cave today, visitors can still visit Grjotagja to take a quick dip during the day. So, if you want to relive this Game of Thrones scene yourself, Grjotagja is the place to go! One quick soak in the cave will transport you into a world-famous fantasy novel.

Reykjadalur (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Located near the town of Hveragerði, Reykjadalur is a valley in Iceland known for it’s hot spring river. The name of the valley also originates from two Icelandic words: “reykja,” which means “smoke,” and “dalur,” meaning “valley”. So, while you’re at “smokey valley”, you should expect your gaze to be met by steamy vents and bubbling springs. The path of the hot spring river also winds around the hills to a portion of the river paved by a wooden built path. So, if you’re interested in checking out Reykjadalur for yourself, you’re in luck! An hour-long hike can also be included on your way to the hot thermal river.

Grettislaug (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Based on a famous Icelandic saga, Grettislaug is a hot spring located on the shores of Skagifjörður. The saga itself tells the story of a man named Grettir who lived in Iceland for 20 years as an outlaw. Living on the northern island of Drangey, he was said to have swam 5 miles from its shore to the hot springs of Grettislaug. These hot springs themselves prevented him from dying as he swam across the chill of the sea. Since then, the Grettislaug hot spring has been named after him ever since. So, if you’re planning a visit to the Grettislaug hot spring yourself, you’re in for a spectacular dip. The Grettislaug hot spring is surrounded by excellent views of the mountains, the sea, and the Drangey Island.

Krossneslaug (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Located in the Strandir region of the Westfjords, the Krossneslaug is a swimming pool heated by natural hot springs. Known as the infinity pool, Krossneslaug has magnificent views of the ocean, North Iceland, and the country’s wildlife. In fact, while you’re here, you might also come across some whales as they break the surface and raise their flukes. Seabirds are also known to inhabit the area as well as dolphins and seals. So, if you’re planning to visit Krossneslaug for the first time, take note. From Reykjavik, the hot spring is about 5 hours away.

Húsafell Canyon Baths (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Near a stunning hike, the Husafell Canyon baths are pools nestled in a magnificent highland canyon. Composed of varying temperatures, one pool is 86-105 degrees Fahrenheit while the other pool is a cold water spring at 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Together, they both provide a spectacular view of the canyon, mountains and glaciers. So, if you’re looking to plan a visit to the Husafell Canyon Baths, you might want to do the hike first. It’s rated as easy for beginners and it’s appropriate for all skill levels.

Vök Baths (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Located on the bank of Urriðavatn lake, Vok Baths are natural geothermal pools floating with an infinity view. To gain admission into these baths, an admission package must be purchased in order to enter. Standard admission starts at ISK 5,990 ($47) and it includes a Tisane drink at the complimentary tea bar. Comfort admission starts at ISK 6,890 ($54) and it includes an exclusive pool bar drink. Premium admission starts at ISK 9,990 ($79) and it includes a premium meal from the Vok Bistro. So, if you’re planning on visiting the Vok baths for the first time, I highly recommend purchasing the premium package! It’s cheaper than the Blue Lagoon and it has a whole lot to offer.

GeoSea (Icelandic Hot Springs)

Clinging to the cliffs above the Skjálfandi bay, the GeoSea geothermal baths are the most beautiful Icelandic hot springs in the world. Sitting right above the ocean, the baths allow the visitors to see the whales and dolphins as they splash by the springs. Composed of three, the GeoSea has as an upper pool tucked in a corner of the building, another pool near the locker rooms, and a third pool out by the Skjalfandi bay. The upper pool is in the middle of the three in terms of temperature and it includes a swim-up window for drinks. The second pool is furthest away from the lighthouse and it is the hottest out of the three. The third pool is the largest of the three and the coolest in terms of temperature. So, if you’re planning to visit GeoSea baths for the first time, I highly recommend checking out the largest pool. Even though it’s the coldest one out of the three, the view of Skjalfandi bay makes it worth it.

Overall, I really hope you enjoyed this post on the best Icelandic hot springs to visit for your trip to Iceland. Please let me know in the comments down below which Icelandic hot spring you would like to visit the most! I would love to hear from you.

P.S. This post is also for you if you’re interested in Reykjavik Street Art!

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