Iceland is renowned for its hot springs, thermal rivers, and pools with mineral-rich waters believed to heal a variety of ailments. Our Spa and Wellness Guide to Iceland will inspire you to visit this breathtaking country and experience true relaxation. Escape into nature, swimming in warm rivers surrounded by mountains and towering cliffs, or opt for a full-day lagoon spa package! With geothermal bakeries, whale watching, and the Northern Lights all accessible from these hot spring spas, you’re sure to have a memorable experience whichever one you choose to visit. Combine your visit to these spots with a stay at a cozy hotel retreat to fully unwind in nature.
Gamla Laugin (Secret Lagoon)
Our Spa and Wellness Guide to Iceland takes you off the beaten path to the Secret Lagoon in the quaint village of Flúðir. Constructed in 1891 around natural hot springs and a geyser that gushes every few minutes, this lagoon boasts the oldest swimming pool in all of Iceland. During the winter months, the Northern Lights put on their mesmerizing show above Gamla Laugin. Lay back and relax in the steaming water, gazing upwards to see the multicolored lights dance across jet-black skies. Interested in an easy way to explore this lagoon and the surrounding attractions? We have the perfect day trip for that.
Hvammsvegur, 845 Flúðir, Iceland
Reykjadalur Hot Spring River
In a desolate valley near Hveragerði, 45 kilometers from Reykjavik, the great outdoors beckons you. Here, hot springs, flowing rivers, and mud pools steam and bubble like a cauldron. The walking trail to reach the river is steep and narrow, although there are options to ride horseback through the geothermal valley. Reykjadalur Hot Spring River is a popular place for locals, but lesser-known to tourists. So if you wish to relax in mineral-rich waters amidst emerald mountains alongside locals, this is the place to visit.
Reykjadalur Valley, Hveragerði, Iceland
Myvatn Nature Baths
This impressive hot spring gets its water from the National Power Company’s source in Bjarnarflag. Impressive amounts of alkaline, sulfur, and rich minerals assist with healing medical conditions such as asthma, skin, and respiratory problems. These steam baths look similar to the famous Blue Lagoon, but they are lesser-known and cheaper to visit. There’s a café for snacks and light lunches, where you can dine on a terrace overlooking turquoise waters. If you stay until late, you might catch a glimpse of the captivating Northern Lights, so don’t forget your camera! For those wanting to rest in Myvatn overnight, this cozy yet streamlined hotel is perfect for an extended visit.
Jarðbaðshólar, 660 Mývatn, Iceland
Blue Lagoon
The other-worldly landscape of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland captivates from the outset. Rich, dark volcanic landscapes surround milky, steaming aquamarine waters which peak at 39 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Slip into the healing waters, adorn a mineral mask, and relax. Swim to hidden lava coves to escape the throng of visitors and enjoy peace and tranquility. Blue Lagoon offers spa packages to suit all, with massages and nourishing skin treatments designed to pamper and revitalize. After your session, enjoy delicious Icelandic and international cuisine in Lava Restaurant, the soak up vistas from the deck. Enjoy a full 5-day package tour that includes a stop at this natural wonder, or stay overnight at a pampering retreat. The Blue Lagoon is also just a short distance from Reykjavik, making it an easy day trip from the capital.
Norðurljósavegur 9, Grindavík
GeoSea Sea Baths
This coastal bathing spa is hidden in a little-known fishing town in Northern Iceland. But this town has been keeping the secrets of its geothermal waters for hundreds of years. The mineral-rich seawater, reaching temperatures of 39 degrees Celsius, can soothe and assist many skin conditions including psoriasis. Set aside a cliff overlooking Skjálfandi Bay, GeoSea Sea Baths is also the ideal space to partake in whale watching. And as night begins to fall, sip a glass of wine in the outdoor baths while viewing the Aurora Borealis.
Vitaslóð 1, 640 Húsavík, Iceland
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths
These simmering outdoor mineral baths are located in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle. Locals have been enjoying the healing benefits of Laugarvatn Fontana since 1929. With wide-open vistas, you can fully reconnect with nature as your body and skin are nourished and rejuvenated. Alternate hot steam rooms, saunas, and warm relaxing pools with a cooling dip to improve muscle movement, blood circulation, and arthritis. After your session, sample geothermal bread from the spa bakery and enjoy rooftop vistas of mountains and lakes as the light changes. The nearby town of Laugarvatn is a charming place for a stroll, with local art, interesting architecture, and forest openings where locals host events throughout the year. These tours offer some of the best ways to get to the area.
Laugarbraut, Laugarvatn
Iceland’s lagoons, geothermal baths, and hot springs are truly some of the highlights of the country’s natural wonders. A multi-day tour package is a great way to catch all the best attractions of Iceland. Many packages include a couple of days to relax and rejuvenate in one of Iceland’s many restoring bodies of water.
