Iceland’s Chill Vibes: A Guide to the Best Hot Springs!
Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes, glaciers, and breathtaking waterfalls. But there’s one thing that sets Iceland apart from other countries: its abundance of natural hot springs. These geothermal pools are not only a sight to behold but also an excellent way to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, make sure to add these top 5 hot springs to your itinerary. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of them and why they’re worth a visit.
Get Ready to Relax: The Top 5 Hot Springs in Iceland
-
Blue Lagoon: One of the most popular hot springs in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit. The milky blue waters, rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, are believed to have therapeutic benefits for the skin. The lagoon is also surrounded by a surreal volcanic landscape, making it a unique and relaxing experience.
-
Mývatn Nature Baths: Tucked away in the north of Iceland, the Mývatn Nature Baths offer a more hidden and intimate hot spring experience. The waters are rich in minerals like sulfur, which gives them a slightly greenish hue. The surrounding landscape is also breathtaking, with steam rising from the ground and mountains in the background.
-
Landmannalaugar: This hot spring, located in the Icelandic Highlands, is worth the trek. It’s a bit of a journey to get there, but the views along the way are stunning. Once you reach Landmannalaugar, you’ll be rewarded with a serene and calming hot spring surrounded by colorful mountains and lava fields.
-
Reykjadalur: This hot spring is a bit off the beaten path, but that’s part of its charm. The hike to get there takes about an hour, and you’ll pass by streams, waterfalls, and geothermal vents along the way. The hot spring itself is nestled in a valley, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene river.
-
Hveragerði: This small town, located just outside of Reykjavik, is known for its geothermal activity. There are several hot springs to choose from in the area, but the most popular is the Reykjadalur thermal river. The river is hot enough to bathe in and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Soak Your Worries Away: Iceland’s Hidden Gems of Hot Springs
While the Blue Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Baths are popular hot springs, Iceland is also home to many hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few you may not have heard of:
-
Seljavallalaug: This hot spring is tucked away in a valley, surrounded by stunning mountains. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but once you do, you’ll be rewarded with a quiet and peaceful hot spring experience.
-
Laugarvatn Fontana: This hot spring is located on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, and the views are breathtaking. The hot spring itself is a series of interconnected pools that range in temperature, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
-
Grettislaug: This hot spring is located in the north of Iceland, near the town of Saudarkrokur. It’s a bit out of the way, but the views of the surrounding mountains and ocean make it worth the trip. The water is also said to have healing properties.
Experience Ultimate Bliss: The Most Serene Hot Springs in Iceland
If you’re looking for a truly relaxing experience, these hot springs are some of the most serene in Iceland:
-
Vök Baths: These hot springs are located in East Iceland, overlooking Lake Urriðavatn. The pools are made of floating pontoons, so you feel like you’re floating on the water. The views are also stunning, with mountains and a glacier in the background.
-
Krauma: This hot spring is located in West Iceland, near the Deildartunguhver hot spring. The pools are made of natural stone and offer a serene and calming experience. The water is also rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are said to have therapeutic benefits for the skin.
-
Secret Lagoon: This hot spring is located in the town of Fludir and is one of the oldest in Iceland. The water is a comfortable temperature, and the surrounding landscape is beautiful. There’s also a small geyser that erupts every 5-10 minutes, adding to the unique experience.
Unwind and Recharge: Iceland’s Best Hot Springs for Mind & Body
These hot springs are known for their therapeutic benefits and are a great way to unwind and recharge:
-
Hrunalaug: This hot spring is located in the west of Iceland, near the town of Fludir. The water is said to have healing properties and is rich in minerals like sulfur. The surrounding landscape is also stunning, with mountains and a river nearby.
-
Gamla Laugin: This hot spring is located in the north of Iceland, near the town of Hvammstangi. The water is rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, which are said to have therapeutic benefits for the skin. The surrounding landscape is also beautiful, with mountains and a river nearby.
-
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier: This hot spring is located on a glacier, making it a truly unique experience. You’ll need to take a helicopter to get there, but once you do, you’ll be rewarded with a serene and calming hot spring experience. The water is also rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, making it great for the skin.
Dive into the Calming Waters: Iceland’s Must-Visit Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a quintessential Icelandic hot spring experience, these are the ones you can’t miss:
-
Blue Lagoon: As mentioned, this hot spring is a must-visit. It’s iconic for a reason, with its milky blue waters and surreal volcanic landscape.
-
Landmannalaugar: This hot spring may be a bit out of the way, but the journey is worth it. The surrounding mountains and lava fields make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
-
Hveragerði: This small town is known for its geothermal activity, and the Reykjadalur thermal river is one of the best hot springs to visit. The river is hot enough to bathe in and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.
No matter which hot spring you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Iceland’s natural hot springs are a true wonder of the world, and they’re just waiting to be explored.
We hope this guide to Iceland’s top hot springs has inspired you to plan your next trip. From the iconic Blue Lagoon to the hidden gems of Seljavallalaug and Grettislaug, there’s a hot spring for every type of traveler. So pack your swimsuit, grab a towel, and get ready to soak your worries away in Iceland’s serene and calming waters.