Bathe in style: The guide to 14 hot resorts along the Ring Road
Sun and rain (or snow!), bright or dark, every day is ideal for a warm and soothing outdoor bath.
At least this is the local consensus. Icelanders love soaking in geothermal hot water, which is thankfully abundant. Across the country, spas have been stepping up their game by opening in more diverse locations with more amenities and plenty og breathtaking views.
The Softness of Silica
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa was discovered by accident. Nestled in a lava field near the airport, the Blue Lagoon formed when superheated water used to power a nearby geothermal plant pooled in the surrounding landscape. When an employee noticed the water's soothing effects on the skin, the idea for a wellness retreat was born.
Today, the mineral-rich waters, naturally heated and rich in silica, are redirected into serene pools, where visitors can soak in the milky blue waters. The silica not only gives the lagoon its signature color but also forms a white mud at the bottom, known for its skin-nourishing benefits. Studies have shown that this silica-rich mud can help alleviate conditions like psoriasis.
With a full-service spa and a dedicated wellness clinic, the Blue Lagoon has evolved into a world-renowned destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Swim in Icelandic History
Sky Lagoon draws inspiration from Icelandic heritage. Visitors can experience the warmth of a turf house and a cold plunge pool made from hewn stones. The grey-blue and deep green designs reflect the surrounding landscape. Sky Lagoon staff guide visitors through the seven steps of the Skjól Ritual to maximize the spa experience, from the lagoon to the cold plunge, the sauna, to the cool mist and salt rub.
The 75-meter infinity pool offers a view across Faxa Bay toward the President's residence at Bessastaðir. If you don't want to leave the warm water and the stunning view behind, you can order drinks at the in-pool bar.
A Cascading Retreat on the Golden Circle
Opened in summer 2025, Laugarás Lagoon brings a new level of luxury to the Golden Circle. Located in the small village of Laugarás, this spa is home to Iceland's first cascading waterfall lagoon, nestled along the banks of the Hvítá River.
Surrounded by lush greenery and geothermal steam, the lagoon offers a serene escape where visitors can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in scenic river views. In winter, the atmosphere becomes even more magical, with the Northern Lights often dancing overhead.
Reykjaböð Hot Springs
Reykjaböð Hot Springs is a new natural hot spring and wellness retreat at the roots of Reykjadalur Valley in Hveragerði. Natural hot springs, a Nordic bathhouse, and Icelandic nature come together in an experience where you can slow down, soak in geothermal waters, and embrace the contrast of heat and cold, whether you visit on a bright summer evening or beneath the northern lights.
Green Ferns and Clear Water
Krauma Geothermal Spa waters come straight from Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, in West Iceland's Borgarfjörður region. Thanks to its incredibly high flow rate, the six pools are constantly replenished, eliminating the need for chemicals and ensuring a naturally pure soak.
Smaller and more serene than some of Iceland's larger spas, Krauma offers a peaceful retreat just 100 km (62 miles) from Reykjavík. The surrounding area is just as unique; Deildartunguhver is the only place in the world where the rare Icelandic fern grows. Plus, the geothermal waters also heat local greenhouses, so fresh fruits and tomatoes are never far away!
Hot Springs by the 'Whale Fjord'
Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord), stretching between Reykjavík and Akranes, is a perfect day-trip destination from the capital. Known for its quiet, scenic roads and home to Iceland's second-tallest waterfall, the fjord became even more enticing in 2022 with the addition of a must-visit geothermal retreat.
Hvammsvík Hot Springs seamlessly blend into the shoreline, with eight multi-temperature baths that feel like a natural extension of the coastline. Some pools shift in temperature and depth with the tide, creating a dynamic bathing experience. A dip in the sea is part of the adventure, especially for cold-water enthusiasts, including Wim Hof practitioners who occasionally host workshops here. The property also features a restaurant and a boutique hotel, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
Surprise Lagoon in the Forest
During the construction of the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel in 2014, workers unexpectedly tapped into a hidden geothermal water source deep within the mountain. Rather than letting the water go to waste, road authorities redirected it to a stunning mountainside location among the trees and overlooking Akureyri and Eyjafjörður, creating one of North Iceland's most scenic geothermal retreats.
The Forest Lagoon exudes Scandinavian allure. It features a leisure pool, cold plunge, sauna, and, of course, a swim-up bar. As part of the 2022 development, walking paths were added to the nearby forest, making the lagoon a perfect spot to unwind in nature.
Swim Under the Northern Lights
Earth Lagoon Mývatn, formerly the Mývatn Nature Baths, reopened in late summer 2026 after an extensive renovation and expansion. The refreshed geothermal spa features upgraded facilities and new wellness experiences while retaining the mineral-rich waters that have made it one of North Iceland's most popular attractions.
Often called the "Blue Lagoon of the North," Earth Lagoon Mývatn sits beside volcanic Lake Mývatn in one of Iceland's most geologically active regions. The mineral-rich geothermal waters are naturally alkaline and bacteria-resistant, giving the lagoon its distinctive milky-blue color.
Beyond the main lagoon, visitors can enjoy a hot tub, steam bath, and plunge pool. The steam bath's panoramic windows frame sweeping views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. As with many geothermal baths in Iceland, it's best to remove brass jewelry before bathing, as the sulfur-rich water can cause discoloration.
Whale Watching and Warmth from the Cliffs
In the northern town of Húsavík, the story of GeoSea's humble start began with an old cheese barrel hauled up the mountainside by locals eager to soak in the naturally warm seawater. Today, GeoSea has transformed into a stunning geothermal retreat, where cliffside infinity pools overlook Skjálfandi Fjord, one of Iceland's prime whale-watching locations. If you're lucky, you might spot a humpback whale surfacing below, with the snow-capped peaks of Kinnarfjöll forming a breathtaking backdrop.
What makes GeoSea unique is its pure geothermal seawater, naturally rich in minerals and heated deep within the Earth, offering a soothing, skin-nourishing soak unlike any other. The pools seamlessly blend into the rugged mountainside, while polished black lava rock and gray slate architecture create a design that feels modern and blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The Floating Baths
Nestled on and in the dark and reflective waters of Lake Urriðavatn in East Iceland, Vök Baths offers a tranquil escape unlike any other. Locals from nearby Egilsstaðir first discovered the geothermal springs when they noticed that certain areas of the lake never froze in winter. At first, some speculated about a hidden lake creature beneath the surface—but the real culprit was far more inviting: naturally warm, mineral-rich water bubbling up from deep underground.
Vök, meaning "hole in the ice" in Icelandic, takes its name from these mysterious warm patches. Today, the floating infinity pools mirror those natural openings, letting bathers soak in the steaming geothermal waters while surrounded by the crisp, cool lake. The experience perfectly blends Iceland's raw nature and pure relaxation.
Bread Baked by the Earth's Heat
Laugarvatn Fontana reopened in July, 2026, following renovations and an expansion that further enhance its geothermal bathing experience.
At Laugarvatn Fontana, relaxation meets history in a unique geothermal setting. Built directly over bubbling hot springs, the spa features naturally heated pools, hot tubs, and traditional steam rooms, where you can hear the hissing geothermal energy beneath your feet. For those feeling adventurous, a refreshing dip in Lake Laugarvatn provides the ultimate contrast of hot and cold therapy.
Each pool and steam room offers a different temperature and atmosphere, allowing visitors to find their ideal place to unwind. The experience extends beyond the baths with the geothermal bakery, where traditional Icelandic rye bread is slow-baked underground using the Earth's natural heat.
Iceland's Oldest Geothermal Pool
Tucked away in the village of Flúðir, just off the Golden Circle, the Secret Lagoon is Iceland's oldest swimming pool, dating back to 1891. Locals affectionately call it "Gamla Laugin" (Icelandic for "the old pool"), a name that reflects its deep-rooted history.
Unlike larger, more developed spas like the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon offers a more rustic, unspoiled experience—a tranquil retreat for those seeking simplicity and natural beauty. From the warm waters, watch as a nearby geyser erupts every five minutes, sending plumes of steam into the sky. Or take a short stroll along the surrounding paths to explore the geothermal terrain dotted with bubbling hot springs and wisps of rising steam.
Canyon Baths on the Edge of the Highlands
Nestled on the edge of Iceland's Highlands, Húsafell is a nature lover's paradise, surrounded by lava caves, rivers, and forests, and the Langjökull Glacier is nearby. With the addition of the Canyon Baths, this beloved getaway truly has it all.
Canyon Baths offers a more intimate geothermal experience, with two handcrafted stone pools set in a stunning canyon. Access is limited to 16 guests, reached via a guided walk. In summer, there are four daily departures.
The baths are inspired by Snorralaug, a historic hot spring dating back to the 13th century in Reykholt when legendary poet and politician Snorri Sturluson ruled western Iceland.
Visit the Húsafell Canyon Baths
Soak, Sip, and Cheers to Iceland's Beer Spa
Beer spas are rare, but you'll find one in North Iceland, where Bruggsmiðjan Brewery has taken beer culture to a new level of relaxation. Bjórböðin (The Beer Baths), Iceland's first beer spa, offers a unique wellness experience, combining beer, hops, and yeast, ingredients said to rejuvenate both body and spirit.
At the Beer Spa, enjoy a 25-minute soak in warm beer, hops, and live yeast, then unwind in the lounge or soak up views of Hrísey Island and Þorvalds Valley. Don't miss the on-site restaurant, serving beer-inspired dishes and local brews; a must-try North Iceland experience.
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