Snorralaug

Snorralaug

Snorralaug in Reykholt is one of Iceland’s most famous and historically significant geothermal pools. It was among the first ten archaeological sites in Iceland to receive protected status and is considered one of the country’s oldest preserved bathing pools.

Thirteen bathing pools from early Icelandic history are known, and Snorralaug is one of only four that remain usable today. The pool is approximately four meters in diameter. Due to its uneven floor, the depth varies between about 0.7 and 1 meter.

Stone steps lead down into the pool, constructed from carefully cut geothermal stone. Archaeological excavations have revealed that two channels once supplied the pool with hot water from the nearby hot spring Skrifla, which has since been destroyed.

On the edge of the water inlet, the inscription “V.Th. 1858” can be seen carved into the stone. This is the mark of Reverend Vernharður Þorkelsson, who oversaw repairs to the pool in that year.