Iceland is known for being a geological wonder as a country filled with lava-based black sand beaches, glacial cliffsides, and, of course, natural hot springs, the most popular of which is the Blue Lagoon. While this natural feature has brought tourists from all over the world to its healing sands and stunning blue waters, this hotspot isn't the only natural spa in the country. It might be the most popular, but it's definitely not the one and only.
The Blue Lagoon might claim to have healing properties but next time you're in the land of cold and ice (which is really beautiful and quite breathtaking), be sure to check out some of these lesser-known, but equally as wonderful, hot springs.
Myvatn Nature Baths
It's a bit of a trek from Iceland, but the Myvatn Nature Baths are well worth the effort it takes to get there. Plus, who wouldn't love a scenic drive through the Icelandic countryside? Situated a few hours from Reykjavik, these natural hot springs are also located roughly 65 miles outside of the Arctic Circle, so the warmth will also be welcomed to those who put in the time to find these natural baths.
Visitors to Myvatn won't be greeted with the extensive spa amenities that the Blue Lagoon offers but they will have the view of a lifetime. These springs look over volcanoes as well as the Myvatn Lake, making for a pretty serene setting amongst steamy waters that reach temperatures of 95 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It might be chilly outside, but the reward awaits for weary travelers in these comforting, natural soaking pools.
Landbrotalaug
If there were a hot spring that was the opposite of the Blue Lagoon, it would definitely be Landbrotalaug. Starting with its size, the hot spring in Landbrotalaug is only large enough to hold about three people. Due to its minuscule nature, only about 20 people actually make it into this pool every day, so for those interested, lining up early or going late in the day are the best options.
In terms of distance, this hot spring is just under two hours from Reykjavik, but the trek out here is worth it for the scenic vistas along the way. If the goal is to see the lesser-known side of Iceland and explore its natural beauty, then this hot spring should be on the list. The views are absolutely gorgeous along the Snæfellsnes peninsula and that alone is worth seeking out the Landbrotalaug.
Reykjadalur Steam Valley
A little closer to Rekjavik is the Reykjadalur Steam Valley which is accessible via hiking. That's right, rather than simply driving to this lagoon, hikers are rewarded for their physical efforts with a soak in arguably one of the country's best hot springs outside of the Blue Lagoon. If you're wondering why this is worth the hike when you could just hop in a car, all you need to do is take in the green, rolling-hill beauty that surrounds this spring.
The hike only takes about 30 to 45 minutes which is not bad by any stretch, and the size of the hot spring is adequate enough to hold all who seek it. Since it does run along a river, there's really no shortage of good spots to sit, chill, and soak in the warmth. There are also wooden platforms surrounding the river in various locations which allow for an easy-in and easy-out experience.
Gamla Laugin Lagoon
Often referred to as the 'secret' lagoon, the Gamla Laugin has been deemed the country's best in terms of natural hot springs. The spring itself was actually built in 1947 and briefly neglected until 2014 when it was finally restored to all the glory and charm it held when the idea for this pool was first conceived. Visitors can find this hot spring in the small town of Flúðir where it's partially hidden by a building along the Golden Circle Path.
The reason this hot spring is so well-known is definitely due to its swimming options, but also the fact that it's a gorgeous place to watch the northern lights. The hot spring pool and its amenities have also been recently updated to include changing rooms along with showers and lockers for personal items. While the facility is quite old (again, dating back to 1947), its rustic appearance only helps to add to the overall nature-vibe visitors get while visiting these hot springs. The edges of the pool were left rough and natural, creating a mossy and au natural environment to relax, soak, and heal in.