20 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland

Iceland's volcanic geology creates geothermal water across much of the country. For centuries, Icelanders have used naturally heated water for bathing, washing and relaxation.

Today, travellers can experience this tradition at locations ranging from tiny natural pools to geothermal rivers and simple seaside hot tubs.

Among the best-known places are Hrunalaug, Reykjadalur Hot River, Seljavallalaug and the Landmannalaugar Hot Spring.

This guide focuses mainly on smaller geothermal bathing places rather than large commercial spas.

South Iceland contains several of the country's best-known natural geothermal bathing places.

Hrunalaug near Flúðir is a small rustic pool surrounded by the countryside of South Iceland.

Reykjadalur Hot River near Hveragerði combines geothermal bathing with a hike through an active geothermal valley.

Farther east, Seljavallalaug sits deep inside a dramatic valley beneath Eyjafjallajökull. A short walk from the parking area leads to the historic outdoor pool.

These three locations are very different from one another and work well as part of a longer journey through South Iceland.

West Iceland combines geothermal bathing with some of the country's strongest historical landscapes.

Guðrúnarlaug in Sælingsdalur is closely connected with the story of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir and the world of the Icelandic sagas.

On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Landbrotalaug is a small geothermal pool surrounded by open countryside.

These locations are ideal for travellers who want to combine geothermal bathing with the history and scenery of West Iceland.

The Westfjords contain one of Iceland's greatest concentrations of small geothermal bathing places.

Hellulaug is a small stone-lined pool close to the coast, while Pollurinn provides a peaceful geothermal bathing experience near Tálknafjörður.

Nearby Brúarpotturinn is another small and quiet hot pool surrounded by the dramatic landscape of the southern Westfjords.

Krosslaug at Birkimelur combines geothermal bathing with wide views across the surrounding mountains.

On the Strandir coast, the Drangsnes Hot Pots sit directly beside the ocean.

Reykjafjarðarlaug provides an even more remote experience in the quiet landscapes of the Westfjords.

North Iceland offers several geothermal bathing experiences that combine naturally with a Ring Road journey.

Fosslaug is a small geothermal bathing place in Skagafjörður.

Grettislaug sits beside the sea on Reykjaströnd and offers views towards Drangey.

The Sæberg Hot Tubs are located beside Hrútafjörður close to the Ring Road. They are associated with the local accommodation, so visitors who are not staying there should check current access and admission arrangements.

East Iceland has fewer well-known geothermal bathing places than South or West Iceland, but the region contains some particularly memorable pools.

Laugarfell Hot Pools offer a geothermal bathing experience in the peaceful landscape of East Iceland.

More remote Laugavallalaug is especially distinctive because warm geothermal water flows over a rock face and into the bathing pool below.

Road and weather conditions can change quickly in remote parts of East Iceland, so current access should always be checked before travelling.

The Icelandic Highlands contain some of the country's most spectacular geothermal bathing locations.

The Landmannalaugar Hot Spring is surrounded by colourful rhyolite mountains and is one of Iceland's classic Highland experiences.

Hveravellir Hot Pool lies on the Kjölur route in a remote geothermal landscape.

Strútslaug requires a substantial walk through rugged Highland terrain, making the journey an important part of the experience.

In Kerlingarfjöll, Borholan offers a simple geothermal bathing place surrounded by colourful mountains and geothermal activity.

Highland roads are seasonal. Always check road openings, weather conditions and vehicle requirements before travelling.

One of the attractions of Iceland's smaller geothermal bathing places is their simplicity.

Locations such as Hellulaug and the Drangsnes Hot Pots have traditionally been accessible without the large admission fees associated with commercial geothermal lagoons.

However, access rules and fees can change. Always check current information before visiting and respect any contribution boxes, local rules or landowner requests.

Natural geothermal water is very different from a temperature-controlled swimming pool.

Always test the water before entering. Temperature and flow can change because of rainfall, weather, earthquakes or changes in geothermal activity.

Never assume that geothermal water is safe for bathing simply because it looks inviting.

Respect private property, closures and local restrictions. Avoid soaps and shampoos in natural pools and always leave the site as you found it.

Remote pools such as Laugavallalaug, Hveravellir and Strútslaug also require careful planning because of road, weather and hiking conditions.

What are the best natural hot springs in Iceland?

Popular options include Hrunalaug, Reykjadalur Hot River, Landmannalaugar, Hellulaug and Grettislaug.

Are there free hot springs in Iceland?

Some geothermal pools and hot pots have traditionally been free to use. Examples include Hellulaug and the Drangsnes Hot Pots. Access arrangements can change, so always check current information.

Can you visit hot springs in Iceland during winter?

Some geothermal pools remain accessible during winter, while many remote Highland locations are inaccessible outside summer because of road closures and weather.

Can you swim in every geothermal spring in Iceland?

No. Some geothermal water is dangerously hot, unstable or unsuitable for bathing. Only enter water where bathing is permitted and known to be safe.

Which hot springs are best for a road trip?

Hrunalaug, Hellulaug, Pollurinn, Guðrúnarlaug and Grettislaug can all fit naturally into longer regional road trips around Iceland.