Iceland is full of incredible natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the unique beauty of the landscape.
If you're driving south from Seyðisfjörður, here's a guide to some of the best nature baths to check out along the way.
This pool is located in the land of the Valþjófsstaður vicarage. It’s a round pool, 3.5 meters wide and 70 centimeters deep, with stone walls and a cozy temperature of 40°C. To get there, drive on road 910, Snæfellsveg, through Fljótdalsheiði, then turn east towards Laugará. Continue to Laugarfellsskálar and park there. From the parking lot, it’s just a short walk to the pool. The drive from Egilsstaðir takes about an hour.
Open from June 1st to September 30th.
If you're visiting Iceland on a cruise and stopping at the Seyðisfjörður harbour for 30 hours, Laugarfellslaug is a great option. It’s roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive from Seyðisfjörður, offering a serene and relaxing escape into nature.
Located near Hveragerði, Reykjadalur is a stunning area where hot springs flow through a picturesque valley. To get there, drive through Hveragerði and head towards the mountains. From the parking lot, it’s about a 1–2 hour hike (depending on your pace) to reach the hot springs. While there are open changing areas near the springs, they don’t offer much privacy. The hike and the views make this spot a favourite for many visitors.
Open year-round, but hiking trails may be icy and slippery during winter.
Just outside the town of Flúðir, Hrunalaug sits in a small gorge surrounded by grassy hills. The pool is built with rocks and next to a charming old stone hut, which serves as a simple changing area. Inside, there’s a bench where you can sit or store your belongings. The pool is about a 10-minute drive from Flúðir, followed by a short walk from the parking lot.
Open year-round, though paths can be muddy or icy depending on weather conditions.
Situated in Laugar í Sælingsdal, about 20 kilometers from Búðardalur, this round stone pool is steeped in history. A small building nearby offers a place to change. The pool was reconstructed in 2009 on the site of an older one mentioned in Icelandic sagas. It’s said to have been used frequently back in the day.
Open year-round with maintained road access.
Tucked away about 500 meters from the Flókalundur service center, Hellalaug is hidden behind a cliff near the ocean. The pool is small, 3–4 meters wide and 60 centimeters deep, and completely natural. There are no changing facilities here, so be prepared. Park at the designated lot above the pool and follow the path down carefully.
Open year-round, but winter conditions may make road access challenging.
Known as one of Iceland’s most iconic destinations, Landmannalaugar’s hot springs are a must-see. The pools range in temperature from 34–41°C and are surrounded by colourful rhyolite mountains. To get here, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle—the drive takes about 2.5 hours from Hvolsvöllur. There’s no changing area near the pools, but a wooden path leads from the cabins, which have toilets and a grilling area.
Typically, open late June to early September. Roads are closed outside this period due to snow and wet conditions.
