Vast glaciers and the pristine polar landscape have created a winter wonderland—this is Iceland. Numerous volcanoes and erupting lava have forged a fiery, pulsating land—this too is Iceland. Iceland's unique geographical location, with its active tectonic activity and frequent magma eruptions, has endowed this glacier-covered country with a continuous supply of geothermal resources, giving rise to countless Icelandic hot springs. Iceland boasts the world's most hot springs, and soaking in Icelandic hot springs is a way of life for Icelanders to relax, connect with nature, and experience an essential part of any Icelandic trip. For those traveling to Iceland to truly immerse themselves in Icelandic culture, local life, and the unique Nordic charm, a genuine Icelandic hot spring bath is a must.
It's no exaggeration to say that hot springs are one of Iceland's most important cultural symbols, and soaking in them is an indispensable part of Icelandic culture. For Icelanders, soaking in hot springs is as commonplace and essential as three meals a day; after work, after exercise, and before resting, a soak is always a must. As a first-time visitor to Iceland, facing a land where hot springs are practically everywhere, and with so many different types and widespread distributions, how do you choose the most suitable bathing experience? How can you organically combine enjoying hot springs with sightseeing? Today, we will recommend the top ten hot springs in Iceland that are most worth experiencing, based on the characteristics of different Icelandic hot springs and their surrounding environment. We believe you will find the perfect hot spring paradise for yourself. If you are on a group tour, the 6-day Iceland Summer Enjoyment Package and the 6-day Iceland Winter Independent Tour will take you to experience the wonders of the Salar de Uyuni (the "Mirror of the Sky") hot springs. If you are driving around the island , you might even have the opportunity to visit lesser-known, hidden hot spring paradises and experience something different.
Icelandic place names are rich in geothermal elements; for example, "reyk" in Reykjavík, the capital, means "steam" (closely related to geothermal energy and hot springs). This demonstrates the long history and widespread popularity of hot spring bathing in Iceland. Let's take a look at some recommendations!
(Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change; please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date information.)
The jewel of Iceland's thermal spas: The Blue Lagoon
1. Location: Reykjanes Peninsula in the southwest , about half an hour's drive from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, or Keflavik International Airport.
2. Opening Hours: Open all year round
3. Ticket Booking :
Tickets must be booked in advance, ideally several weeks ahead during normal times and even earlier during peak season. On-site ticket purchases are not accepted. Blue Lagoon uses a floating pricing system, meaning the fewer tickets available, the higher the price; therefore, booking as early as possible is crucial.
Ticket types: Comfort, Premium, and Luxury. Children aged 2-13 can enter for free.
(1) The Comfort ticket includes admission to the Blue Lagoon, a Silica Mud Mask, a towel provided by the bath, and a complimentary drink;
(2) In addition to Comfort, Premium also offers two other options: face masks, bathrobes, and a glass of sparkling wine at the Lava Restaurant.
(3) Luxury tickets now include a private lounge and a Blue Lake skincare experience set.
4. Details:
The Blue Lagoon is to Iceland's thermal spas what the moon is to the stars—a sapphire adorned among diamonds, a true jewel of Iceland. Not only is it a leader in the thermal spa world, but it's also a significant landmark of Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is not only beautiful and unique, but also fully equipped. In Iceland, a country where thermal springs are abundant and thermal spa centers are highly competitive, the Blue Lagoon enjoys an extremely high reputation, being Iceland's most famous thermal spa and spa center, and a world-renowned thermal spa resort.
As a top-tier spa resort, Blue Lagoon's most unique feature lies in its "blue" hue. Because the Blue Lagoon hot spring water is rich in minerals such as silica, sunlight reflecting off these minerals creates a tranquil blue hue. With a milky white base, the Blue Lagoon hot spring water, tinged with blue, possesses a soft and beautiful color. Being at the Blue Lagoon spa resort, one is immediately enveloped in a soothing milky blue environment.
In 2012, National Geographic listed the Blue Lagoon among its "25 Wonders of the World" due to the unique composition and properties of its geothermal water. The Blue Lagoon's geothermal water is composed of 70% seawater and 30% freshwater, rich in silica, minerals, and blue-green microalgae. This biologically active water is not only pleasing to the eye but also beneficial to the body. Medical research has shown that the Blue Lagoon's geothermal water helps relax the mind and body, relieving tension. Simultaneously, the mineral-rich water nourishes the skin and even has therapeutic effects on allergic skin conditions such as psoriasis. Furthermore, Comfort-level visitors can enjoy a skin-nourishing, exfoliating silica mud mask, while Premium-level visitors can experience a soothing and moisturizing seaweed mask in addition to the silica mud mask. All masks included in the ticket can be used unlimited times within the geothermal center. The Blue Lagoon also fully utilizes its bioactive geothermal resources to develop a variety of 100% natural skincare products, available for purchase at the Blue Lagoon and online.
In addition to outdoor hot spring pools, the Blue Lagoon also has many saunas and steam rooms. Visitors can also book water massage services in advance to completely relax their body and mind in the misty steam and on the deep blue hot spring water.
Not only does it offer comfortable hot springs, but the stunning scenery of the Blue Lagoon is also not to be missed. Located in the heart of the Reykjavik UNESCO Global Geopark, the milky blue thermal waters resemble the brushstrokes of an oil painting. Surrounded by uniquely shaped lava formations and adorned with vibrant moss, the simple architecture blends seamlessly with the environment. The beauty of the Blue Lagoon is unbelievable; it's no wonder that international brands like Nike, Mercedes-Benz, and Apple have been drawn to its unique charm, making special trips here to film advertisements and hold promotional events.
Iceland's newest internet-famous hot spring: Sky Lagoon
1. Location: Sky Lagoon boasts a prime location in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, easily accessible by car (just a few minutes' drive). It can also be reached by city bus number 35. In summer, it's also a popular destination by bicycle.
2. Opening Hours: Open all year round
3. Ticket Booking:
Three types of tickets: Pure Lite, Pure, and Sky.
(1) The Pure Lite ticket includes admission, access to the public changing room, and a towel;
(2) The Pure Ticket, in addition to the Pure Lite, also includes the Sky Lagoon's unique seven-step hot spring ceremony;
(3) Sky tickets also include private changing rooms in addition to Pure tickets.
4. Details:
If the Blue Lagoon offers a pristine and ethereal beauty, then Sky Lagoon provides a return to the natural beauty of untouched nature. Entering the spa area, from the architecture to the hot spring pools, from the rock walls before you to the distant ocean and blue sky, everything exudes a wild and primal atmosphere.
Icelanders embrace simplicity and nature in their design, an aesthetic reflected in every mountain, stream, and blade of grass in Sky Lagoon. The spa center's color scheme is dominated by gray-blue, dark green, and varying shades of white and cream, creating a rustic atmosphere that perfectly complements Iceland's rich geothermal landscape. The houses within the spa center are mostly authentic Icelandic alfalfa huts, an ancient architectural style native to Iceland. Every clod of earth tells a story of Icelanders' struggle against harsh natural conditions, ultimately integrating with nature through their wisdom. These uniquely styled huts, constructed with a layer of grass sourced from wetlands, provided a sturdy shelter for Iceland's early inhabitants in the past, when heating and moisture protection were scarce and building materials were limited. Today, in Sky Lagoon, these huts stand silently beside the geothermal springs, conveying Iceland's ancient charm to visitors from all over the world.
If I had to summarize Sky Lagoon's design philosophy in one sentence, I would say it's "taking from nature and using nature." This philosophy is reflected not only in the houses covered in grass but also in the understanding and skillful use of natural elements such as the ocean, rock walls, and sky.
Iceland embodies both "ice" and "fire," nestled against the crashing waves and sharing an unbreakable bond with the vast Atlantic Ocean. Despite its small size and surrounded by the sea, Iceland boasts a rugged and expansive coastline stretching over 4,800 kilometers. No matter where you are in Iceland, you're never more than an hour or two's drive from the ocean; in Iceland, the air you breathe is always imbued with the warmth of the sea. Therefore, the depiction of Iceland's authentic character is reflected in the unique seascape of Sky Lagoon. Located right next to the Atlantic Ocean, Sky Lagoon features an infinity pool that bridges the gap between the hot springs and the ocean, and between the ocean and the sky. Entering Sky Lagoon, wading into the water, you're surrounded by rugged, dark blue rock walls. Further on, between the towering cliffs on either side, a hidden vista unfolds, revealing a breathtaking view where the ocean and sky intertwine. Looking out, the hot springs and the ocean are almost 70 meters apart, creating the illusion that the water is in the sky and the sky is beside you—a panoramic view of the hot springs and the sea meeting at the horizon. Therefore, Sky Lagoon is also known as "the place where the sea meets the sky".
At Sky Lagoon, there's no need to strain your imagination or search; right before your eyes and beneath your feet is authentic Iceland. Sky Lagoon combines traditional Icelandic bathing methods with sauna, sea salt scrub, and steam room treatments to create a unique seven-step ritual. Each step is distinctive, yet they are organically connected and complement each other, incorporating the Icelandic lifestyle and attitude to provide visitors with a fully immersive hot spring experience.
Related links:
Of course, many of Forest Cat Travel's travel packages also thoughtfully include a Sky Lagoon tour on your arrival day, allowing you to unwind after your journey. You might also like to check out our 7-day classic Iceland summer sightseeing package , our 7-day selected Iceland winter tour , and packages with even more days!
Hvammsvík Hot Springs, a neighbor of the capital city that embraces Whale Fjord.
1. Geographical location:
Hvammsvík hot springs are located in the middle of Hvalfjörður (Whalefjord), about a 45-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. From Reykjavik, drive north along Route 1, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Icelandic coastline. When you reach the Hvalfjardagong Tunnel, turn right onto Route 47. Continue along Route 47, and at the first fork, turn left. You will soon see the entrance to Hvammsvík hot springs on your left.
2. Opening hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, with the last entry at 7:30 PM.
3. Ticket Booking:
Working days: 6900 Icelandic Krona
Weekend: 7900 Icelandic Krona
Note: For safety reasons, children under 10 years old are not allowed to enter; children aged 10-18 must be accompanied by an adult; please make a reservation in advance to ensure smooth access to the hot spring upon arrival.
4. Details:
（1）景观
Hvammsvík位于大西洋旁，地处鲸鱼峡湾（Hvalfjörður）中。鲸鱼峡湾（Hvalfjörður）是冰岛西部的大型峡湾，以自然风光和丰富历史闻名。虽然名为“鲸鱼峡湾”（可能源于古代捕鲸活动），但今天的Hvammsvík峡湾中，鲸鱼只能算是“稀客”了。
鲸鱼峡湾水域深邃，山色幽暗，峡湾两侧是群山连绵，夏季山丘上植被苍翠，冬季则白雪覆顶，景致各异。峡湾内水面平静，倒影出周围的山丘，给人一种宁静和超脱尘世的感觉。
除了颇具北欧风的美景，鲸鱼峡湾还拥有重要的历史地位。第二次世界大战期间，英国、美国军队曾在峡湾内建立基地。此外，峡湾内还有一些历史遗迹，如老教堂和农场，这些古迹反映着冰岛先民的生活。
（2）设备
泳池：
Hvammsvík的温泉水由1400米以下的天然地热水和大西洋海水融合而成，其中共有8个泡澡池（35-40°C的温泉池，及纯天然泳池——大西洋），游客可以根据喜好自由选择温度适合的泳池。
1）休息室游泳池（38°C）
2）上岩池（37°C）
3）下岩池（海洋温度37°C取决于潮汐情况）
4）海洋跳水池（海洋温度）
5) 潮汐池（海洋温度可达35°C，取决于潮汐情况）
6）老温泉（40°C）
7) 上海滩游泳池（ 38°C）
8) 下海滩游泳池（ 36°C）
蒸汽房：
Hvammsvík温泉还有一个木屋式的小蒸汽房，处在岩石的环抱中。
酒吧：
Hvammsvík温泉附近，有个名为“Stormur”的小酒馆，装潢简约，却很有特色。餐厅所有菜肴都用当地农产品制作，其中品类丰富的冰岛海鲜菜品（推荐特色菜海鲜汤）最受欢迎。餐厅还有道特色菜藻姜汤，味道清新宜人。这家餐厅还提供多种素食选择，满足各种口味需求。饮品葡萄酒、啤酒、茶、咖啡也是应有尽有。完全是泡完温泉后，享用美食的好去处。
黄金圈沿线温泉秘境：秘密温泉（Secret Lagoon）
1. 地理位置：位于冰岛南岸的弗吕济（Flúðir）小镇，冰岛精华旅游线“黄金圈”（Golden Circle）沿线，可自驾或乘公交车前往，距冰岛首都雷克雅未克约一个半小时车程。
2. 开放时间：全年开放
3. 详情介绍：
秘密温泉（Secret Lagoon）被冰岛本地人称为“Gamla Laugin”，意为“古老的水池”。该泳池始建于1891年，位于弗吕济小镇旁的地热区Hverahólmi，是冰岛最历史最悠久的温泉池。1909年，冰岛的第一节游泳课在秘密温泉开课，此后，课程年年在此开办，直到1947年。2005年后，久受忽视的秘密温泉迎来了新的生机，几年之间，这池古老的温泉逐渐演变为一个古朴舒适的新温泉中心。不同于人潮不断，备受外国游客青睐的蓝湖温泉，秘密温泉更加僻静，外国旅客较少，却备受冰岛本地人喜爱。
秘密温泉所在地地热泉水丰富，其温泉水直接引自Vaðmálahver、Básahver温泉泉眼及位于黄金圈上的间歇泉, 100%纯天然，新水不间断涌入，仅需24小时泳池的温泉水就能完全换新。温泉新设有小间歇泉（每5分钟喷射一次），沿着环绕四周的小道步行可以观赏到热气腾腾的泉水从地下喷涌而出。这些滚滚而来的天然泉水日复一日为这个古老的温泉注入新的生命力，也源源不断地为游客输送着蕴藏在源自大地的温度。在享受天然温泉水时，旅客还可以带上漂浮气囊，悬浮于水面，舒展四肢，仰卧在碧水与蓝天之间。
相对于蓝湖温泉和天空之境温泉, 秘密温泉内部环境更简约，景区中仅有几间房屋，色调也以黑、白、灰、棕为主，同时，温泉区和周边环境之间没有高墙壁垒，视野开阔，触目即是小镇的田园景致。秘密温泉整体设计质朴，与周遭的乡村景观融为一体。不同于天空之境温泉在精巧的设计中讲述历史，秘密温泉更看重保留原本的历史风貌，存留冰岛的“本心本性”。
除了温泉本身，秘密温泉的地理位置也得天独厚，温泉位于冰岛鼎鼎有名的黄金圈旅游线上，邻近黄金圈三大旅游景点中的间歇泉（The Great Geysir and Strokkur）和黄金瀑布（Gullfoss）。观赏了冰岛的水上盛景，感受了间歇泉的奇丽和黄金瀑布的气势磅礴，行程结束后还能到近处的秘密温泉沐浴，洗净旅途的劳累，不可不谓完美的游玩路线。
欧洲最快流速温泉的近邻：Krauma温泉
1. 地理位置：位于冰岛西部，距雷克雅未克60分钟车程（约100公里）。
2. 开放时间：全年开放
3. 详情介绍：
Krauma温泉坐落于冰岛西部，雷克雅未克东北面，距首都仅有1小时左右的车程。Krauma温泉2017年正式开放，距德尔达图赫菲温泉（Deildartunguhver）仅咫尺之遥。
德尔达图赫菲温泉是既是冰岛最大的温泉，也是整个欧洲流速最快的温泉（180升/秒），泉水温度常年保持在97摄氏度。充沛的水量，迅猛的水势，常年如一的高温使德尔达图赫菲温泉成为绝佳的热能源泉，其泉水多用于为冰岛居民供热。远在34公里外的博尔加内斯（Borgarnes）和64公里外的阿克拉内斯（Akranes）也都受益于这汪大自然的瑰宝。
Krauma温泉比邻德尔达图赫菲温泉，在温泉中心内即可坐赏的温泉水由德尔达图赫菲温泉和朗格冰川（Langjökull）两地的温泉水与冰川水混合而成，精心调配成最适宜的温度，滴滴泉水都源自自然，不添加任何人工成分。与许多温泉不同，Krauma温泉中心内共有6个泳池——5个温泉池，1个冷水池，泡完温泉池后泡一泡冷水池能促进血液循环，放松肌肉，增强泡浴的保健效果。温泉中心还贴心地准备了柠檬水，为热气腾腾的温泉池增添一分清爽。此外，Krauma温泉洗浴配套设施完备，配有壁炉、蒸汽房、休息室和餐厅，以当地食材为原料，菜品保质保鲜，富有冰岛特色。
相关链接：Krauma地热温泉体验入场票
Krauma温泉处在冰岛西部，与水文奇观赫伦瀑布（Hraunfossar）（又名熔岩瀑布）、水流湍急的儿童瀑布（Barnafoss）、包藏着数个火山系统的冰岛第二大冰川朗格冰川等西部盛景距离较近，可以考虑合并游玩。冰岛夏季自驾套餐（8天7夜冰岛夏季环岛自驾及冰岛夏季9天8夜热门环岛自驾游等）将冰岛西部白银圈囊括在内，自驾游览西部风光之余，让独特的Krauma温泉治愈你的身心吧~
天然海景温泉：Geosea温泉
1. 地理位置：位于冰岛东北部的观鲸小镇胡萨维克（Húsavík），冰岛钻石圈旅游观光线（Diamond Circle）起点，靠近大西洋，距冰岛首都雷克雅未克约48公里。
2. 开放时间: 全年开放
3. 详情介绍：
在四面环海的冰岛，海洋是一道深邃而灵动的风景，在冰岛北部的Skjálfandi 海湾，游客们不但能面对蔚蓝的海洋，感受群山环抱，生机盎然的海湾风光，还极有可能看到各类鲸鱼在海洋中腾空飞跃的壮美身姿。胡萨维克是唯一一座位于Skjálfandi 海湾之上的城镇，素有“鲸鱼之都”（the Whale Capital of Iceland）的美誉，Geosea温泉正是坐落在胡萨维克。
Geosea温泉定址于山崖之上，北邻极圈，坐东向西，俯瞰Skjálfandi 海湾，占据着绝佳的观鲸位置，开阔的视野也方便了观赏极光。Geosea中设有高于海面的无边泳池，既方便极目远望，鸟瞰广阔的海湾，又让游客体验到近在咫尺的海湾美景。想象一下，浸在Geosea的温泉水中，看群鲸自平静的海面凌空而起，矫健的身姿在波光粼粼的海面上悦动，想必心绪一如巨鲸腾飞的海面一般水花激跃，海浪翻涌吧。
身为优秀的温泉中心，Geosea的温泉池水也不落俗套，皆取自富含矿物质天然海水，经地热加热而成，对身心益处颇多。Geosea共有三个温泉池，温度各不相同，另外还有一件窗户巨大的蒸汽房，在享受湿蒸的同时还可尽情欣赏窗外的海湾风光，实在是愉悦身心的极致体验。
相关链接：Geosea天然海景温泉入场票
冰岛地热烘焙体验处：丰塔纳地热温泉（Fontana）
1. 地理位置：位于冰岛南部，距离冰岛首都雷克雅未克约1小时车程，坐落于黄金圈旅游线中心位置。
2. 开放时间：全年开放
3. 详情介绍：
Laugarvatn是冰岛南部的一个小村庄，坐落于Laugarvatn湖旁，黄金圈旅游线上，靠近黄金瀑布和间歇泉等景区，丰塔纳地热温泉（Fontana）是村庄中的知名旅游景点，黄金圈旅游线上放松身心的好去处。
丰塔纳地热温泉中有多个温泉池，各个泉池大小、深度、温度不一，泉水富含矿物质，有益于放松身心，温泉中心里还点缀着冰岛艺术家Erla Thorarinsdottir设计的石头艺术品，为温泉区增添了一份匠心和意趣。
除温泉池外，丰塔纳温泉中心还有三个传统蒸汽房和一个芬兰式桑拿房。蒸汽房的地板下铺有输送温泉蒸汽的网格，蒸汽从地板中均匀地散发出来，融入房间里的每一寸空气中，蒸汽房的湿度极高，而温度则随温泉和天气变化，一般维持在40℃至50℃之间，房内的游客不但能全身笼罩在天然温泉散发的朦胧蒸汽中，还能听到房屋下温泉水潺潺涌动的声音。桑拿房就在蒸汽房旁边，桑拿房的设计采用了芬兰风格，房间温度在80℃到90℃之间，湿度低于蒸汽房，坐在桑拿房中，不但可以保养身心，还能透过窗户饱览湖光水色。
泡足了热气腾腾的温泉，游客可以到湖边的黑色沙滩上漫步，在湖里泡个冷水澡，加快血液循环，放松肌肉，享受百分百的天然泳池。
北部“袖珍版蓝湖”：米湖温泉（Mývatn Nature Baths）
1. 地理位置：位于冰岛东北部，冰岛钻石圈旅游线上，距冰岛首都雷克雅未克约473公里，距北极圈约105公里。
2. 开放时间：全年开放
3. 详情介绍：
米湖（Lake Mývatn）是冰岛第四大湖，也是冰岛北部著名旅游景点，湖泊四周火山口众多，地热资源丰富，火山活动留下了独特的地理风貌，周边生态环境绝佳，鸟类禽类繁多，可以观赏到形态各异的鸭子和憨态可掬的海鹦，还有机会品尝到湖中鲜美的鳟鱼。米湖地处冰岛北部，冬日的米湖景区常常白雪纷飞，米湖的火山地貌、地热资源与寒冷的雨雪相互交融，曾吸引《权力的游戏》剧组来此取景拍摄，谱写了一首独具冰岛风貌的“冰与火之歌”。
位于米湖景区的米湖温泉（Mývatn Nature Baths）建于2004年，是冰岛北部的知名温泉中心。由于米湖温泉的泉水也呈乳蓝色，人们常常将米湖温泉和蓝湖温泉相互对比，甚至称之为“冰岛北部的蓝湖”。
就温泉水而言，米湖和蓝湖温泉各有千秋，但都富含矿物质，有滋养身心，保养皮肤的功效。米湖温泉水由国家电力公司直接从地下抽取，温泉底部覆盖着泥沙和砾石，温泉水呈碱性，其中独特的矿物质成分隔绝了对人体有害的细菌和植物，无需添加人工消毒剂，也健康养生，适宜泡浴。米湖温泉硫磺含量高，对呼吸道疾病有一定疗愈效果，但在洗浴室要注意取下珠宝首饰，避免硫磺腐蚀。
除温泉以外，米湖温泉还配有两个蒸汽房，其蒸汽温度随天气变化，通常，蒸汽房内温度为45℃左右，湿度则接近100%。坐在蒸汽房内可以观赏外部山水风光，享受了热气腾腾的蒸汽浴后还能到室外淋浴冲凉放松。
总体而言，蓝湖温泉配套设施更完善，更加现代化，距雷克雅未克也更近，而米湖温泉则价格实惠，游客更少，周边自然风光更赏心悦目，同时能兼顾游览米湖景区和冰岛北部地区。
相关链接：米湖天然温泉入场票
环岛自驾时，不妨前来感受小众的米湖温泉~
Natural geothermal hot springs in Reykjadalur Steam Valley
1. Location: Located in southwestern Iceland, approximately a 50-minute drive + 40-minute walk from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
2. Opening Hours: Wild hot springs, available anytime.
3. Ticket Booking: No tickets required.
4. Details:
In a picturesque country like Iceland, hiking is undoubtedly a wonderful way to travel. While hiking, visitors can stop and admire the scenery at their leisure, walking on grass and soil, or glacial lava, breathing in the sulfurous scent of hot springs or the fresh fragrance of the mountains. This immersive experience allows visitors to connect with and feel the vitality and charm of this land. After a long hike, soaking in a natural hot spring, letting the steaming water wash away the fatigue, would be the perfect complement to any trip.
Starting from Reykjavik, a 50-minute drive south along Iceland's Ring Road will take you to the geothermal town of Hveragerði. From there, a hiking trail of less than 4 kilometers leads up to a valley where a natural hot spring river, Reykjadalur, flows. Unlike many well-equipped Icelandic spas, Reykjadalur is undeveloped, so the riverbanks are untouched by human intervention. There are no entrance fees or reservations for bathing. The hills on both sides of the river are lush and verdant, seamlessly blending the hot spring with the surrounding natural scenery, creating a breathtaking panorama. Soaking in the flowing water, quietly observing the blooming wildflowers, verdant meadows, and winding hills, you'll feel like a part of the painting yourself.
The temperature rises further upstream in Reykjadalur, allowing visitors to choose a suitable section of the river for bathing. However, there are no changing rooms along the riverbank, only some partitions for changing clothes; visitors who are not comfortable with this should prepare accordingly.
Relaxing experience after a highland hike: Giljaböð hot springs
1. Geographical location: Western Iceland
2. Opening Hours: Group tours are available year-round.
3. Ticket Booking : Book online through the official website; all tickets are the same price for hiking to the hot springs.
4. Details:
Similar to Reykjadalur, the Giljaböð hot spring tour is a perfect combination of hiking and hot springs. Located on the western edge of the highlands, Giljaböð is close to several lesser-known and rare attractions in western Iceland. The hike begins in the Icelandic highlands, and led by a local guide in Húsafell, travelers will see the spectacular double waterfall of Langifoss, witness Iceland's renewable energy development projects, and cross glacial streams, feeling the cleansing waters that soothe the soul. On the way to Giljaböð, visitors will also see the remains of the Okjökull glacier. As the world's first glacier to be officially delisted due to shrinkage, Okjökull is not only a glacial remnant but also a reminder of human actions and a tribute to the passing of nature.
Hiking to Giljaböð hot springs, visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while admiring the stunning scenery of the valley. The style of Giljaböð hot springs blends perfectly with the surrounding natural environment. From the very beginning, the locals who built the pools emphasized the coexistence of the hot springs and nature, ensuring they become an integral part of the valley. Although the entire hot spring area includes lockers, showers, and walkways, it feels completely natural and untouched by human intervention. Furthermore, the wood and nails used in the hot spring area were recycled from local residents and farmers, adhering to environmentally friendly and sustainable development principles and protecting the surrounding environment. The three pools at Giljaböð offer different temperatures, allowing visitors to choose according to their preference. After a hike, soaking in the natural hot springs while enjoying the magnificent views of the valley's glaciers is sure to be an experience of ultimate comfort and tranquility.
Bjórböðin SPA Center: A Novel Beer Bath in Northern China
1. Location: In the village of Árskógssandur, northern Iceland
2. Opening Hours: Open all year round
3. Details:
Nestled in the small village of Árskógssandur in northern Iceland is the renowned brewery Bruggsmidjan Kaldi. The beer produced there is brewed with spring water, strictly adhering to German standards. The ingredients are limited to water, premium imported malt, hops, and yeast, resulting in a naturally pure brew free of preservatives and added sugar. Even more uniquely, the beer here is not only smooth and flavorful, but can also be poured into the bathtub to nourish the skin and promote well-being. At the Bjórböðin Spa, founded by Bruggsmidjan Kaldi, visitors can experience this novel wellness bathing experience – a beer spa.
Related Link: Northern Selection Beer Spa Experience
Bjórböðin Spa features both indoor and outdoor bathing areas, comprised of multiple wooden bathtubs. Guests can enjoy a beer bath in one of the seven indoor tubs, either alone or in a shared tub. Unlike the natural thermal spring water found in traditional Icelandic spas, the beer spa uses a mixture of beer, water, hops, and yeast. Since the water is not drinkable, there are no age restrictions. However, to allow guests to enjoy refreshing beer in the steamy spa atmosphere, Bjórböðin Spa places beer barrels next to each bathtub. Simply turn on the tap, and a robust beer will flow into your mouth. Immersing yourself in a pampering beer bath while enjoying a premium, refreshing beer is pure bliss! (Guests aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult to experience the beer bath; beer is only available to guests aged 20 and over.)
The outdoor bathtub at Bjórböðin Spa is crafted from Canadian cedar wood and handmade by artisans in a rustic and natural style. It can accommodate 8 to 10 guests. There is also a similarly handcrafted sauna. While bathing outdoors, guests can enjoy the natural scenery of Hrísey, the surrounding mountains, and the Þorvalds valley. Sharing a bath with friends, enjoying wine and the view would be a truly delightful experience.
Bjórböðin Spa is not far from Akureyri, the capital of northern Iceland. While enjoying the hot springs here, why not also explore Akureyri and the surrounding northern scenery? The popular 9-day, 8-night Iceland summer road trip will take you beyond the Golden Circle and the South Coast, allowing you to delve into northern Iceland and discover a different side of Iceland!
