Iceland — Cleanest Geothermal Pools and Spas in the World
Beyond the otherworldly landscapes and unique geology, Iceland is famous for its hot springs – in fact, some of the best geothermal pools on Earth are located right here. With this natural beauty comes a break from the fray and an incursion into Iceland's volcanic core. In the gallery below, we delve into some of 20 top geothermal sites that are a surefire shot in the arm for both body and soul.
1. Blue Lagoon
One of the most famous geothermal spas in Iceland, situated within a lava field. These hot, mineral-laden waters are well known for their restorative effects on skin and joints accommodated by pampering spa treatments in the midst of gorgeous mountain surroundings.
2. Myvatn Nature Baths
Myvatn Nature Baths (North Iceland): Quieter. Surrounded by peers of electric blue water, the rest is just as easy on the eyes.
3. Reykjadalur Hot River
Avoid the touristy hot springs for a short hike to Reykjadalur Valley where you can bathe in natural river waters. There is no better feeling than washing in a Kicking Horse River.
4. Secret Lagoon
Cute little spot in Flúðir, with a rustic feel and chill vibe. Made even better by its natural setting in the midst of a geothermal wonderland.
5. Landmannalaugar
One of the most famous hot springs and also colourful rhyolite mountains is Landmannalaugar. At the end of your day, submerge yourself in the natural pools to complete a perfect adventure.
6. Laugarvatn Fontana
The Fontana hot springs, near Laugarvatn Lake offer the lovely combination of natural elements and lakeside ambiance. Here visitors can enjoy sauna facilities and taste delicious rye bread baked by ground heat.
7. Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths
Geosea in Húsavík — ocean views and North Atlantic blending geothermal baths Perfect for chilling out relaxing in one of the many warm water and watch whales broke coast.
8. Seljavallalaug
This swimming pool is located in a valley and among the oldest ones to be found anywhere in Iceland. The natural environment and the temperature of seawater make a great secret land.
9. Pool at Hrunalaug
One of all, especially for those who seeks a calm getaway — Hrunalaug is tiny and locates in the middle of nowhere. And the peace of mind is only reinforced by their surroundings in nature.
10. Krossneslaug
Krossneslaug: This is a pool located among the fjords in Westfjords, that means you can take a hot bath and see all of this from there. You can still get to the apartment easily by foot, but you will be more or less unbothered out in this remote place.
11. Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
While not a spa, the hot springs provide a well-deserved break from your hike to Maligne Lake's plane wreck: After you've skipped across treetops and snagged close-ups of Jasper National Park with some local mounties.
12. The Lagoon at the Pearl
This geothermal spa is situated in Reykjavik, with a scenic view to the city and some luxury places for everyone wanting that quality relaxation.
13. Bláa Lónið in Grindavík
Forget the Blue Lagoon — this local alternative features mineral-rich waters and fewer people.
14. Þingvellir National Park
These thermal pools are located in a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can not just soak geothermally, but also fully absorb the island´s historical heritage and magnificent landscapes.
15. Laugardalslaug
There is a lot to like about Laugardalslaug — it claims the title of largest pool in Reykjavik, and also has indoor geothermal pools for year-round family fun accompaniment.
16. Vök Baths
Vök Baths/ By Lake Urriðavatn, Vík i MýrdalPhoto: Courtesy of our partnerCourtesy of Vök SpaSituated by the beautiful lake Urriðavatn in Eastern Iceland, between Höfn and Skaftafell National Park you will find hot tubs that float on top off it´s waters.
17. Eldvörp
Eldvörp Hot Springs; (less known and more authentic than other hot springs sites which are overcrowded with tourists, so preferred if you want to enjoy the nature in tranquility).
18. Fureyslag
Ideal for anyone after the ultimate chill out experience, this pool perched on the side of a mountain range offers unbeatable views and is set within an oasis of unspoilt nature.
19. Hekla Hot Springs
Bathe in the shadow of Hekla, one if Iceland's most active volcanoes. You have to experience this one but the natural hot springs guarantee you a jaw-droppingly awesome time.
20. The Natural Spa at Askja
After a day of exploration, the natural pools at Askja are one way for the intrepid traveler to rejuvenate among volcanic desolation.
All of these geothermal pools and spas provide an interesting way to enjoy the nature in Iceland while benefiting from its hot waters. From luxury to seclusion, Iceland has a hot spring for every time of day.
