Spas to Visit in Iceland
Iceland, a haven for natural spa lovers, offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Imagine relaxing in a hot spring surrounded by a lush, green landscape, or bathing under the midnight sun or northern lights. Sounds like a dream, right? But in Iceland, it’s an everyday reality.
Introduction to Iceland's Natural Spas
Fancy a dip in a hot tub with an awe-inspiring volcanic view, or a spa day surrounded by raw, unfiltered nature? Iceland’s natural spas offer these experiences and much more. Nestled in this beautiful Nordic island country are several natural geothermal spas that provide rejuvenating experiences amid stunning surroundings. These natural retreats are Iceland’s pride and joy, harnessing the geothermal energy that ripples beneath the island’s surface.
Related articles: The best time to visit Iceland , Reykjavik Travel Guide
5 Key Takeaways
- Iceland’s Geothermal Power: Iceland is renowned for its geothermal activity, and this natural feature has been harnessed to create unique spa experiences. These natural spas not only provide relaxation and stunning views, but also offer health benefits thanks to their mineral-rich waters.
- Iconic Spas: Some of the top natural spas in Iceland include the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon, and Mývatn Nature Baths. These spas offer different facilities and experiences, from the milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon to the authentic hot spring experience of the Secret Lagoon.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences: For travellers seeking less crowded, authentic experiences, the Fontana Geothermal Baths and the Drangsnes Hot Tubs provide excellent alternatives. These locations offer unique features such as a geothermal bakery and sea-view hot tubs.
- Consider Season and Health: When planning to visit these spas, consider the season as it can affect your experience. Also, remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and pack appropriate items such as a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops.
- Range of Prices and Services: The cost of visiting these natural spas varies, with prices ranging from free to around ISK 7,000. Besides the basic spa experience, many locations offer additional services such as massages, steam and sauna rooms, and skincare products.
Why Choose Natural Spas in Iceland
Iceland’s geothermal spas are not just about relaxation and recreation. They are also renowned for their healing and wellness benefits. Many of these natural hot springs are rich in minerals like silica and sulphur that are known for their skin-healing properties. But the advantages don’t stop there.
Advantages of Natural Spas
Taking a dip in one of these geothermal wonders can help improve circulation, soothe muscular aches, and even alleviate certain skin conditions such as psoriasis. Plus, it’s hard to deny the mental wellness benefits of unwinding in these tranquil, scenic settings.
Top Natural Spas in Iceland
While Iceland is sprinkled with countless geothermal spots, some stand out as must-visit destinations. Let’s explore some of the country’s best natural spas.
Related article: The best time to visit Iceland
Blue Lagoon
Perhaps Iceland’s most iconic natural spa, the Blue Lagoon, is famous for its milky-blue seawater, which is naturally heated to a comfortable 39°C.
Location and Facilities
Located in a lava field in Grindavík, this geothermal spa offers an otherworldly setting. In addition to the sprawling geothermal pool, the complex includes a restaurant, a café, and a skin care shop.
Experiences and Costs
The Blue Lagoon offers various packages starting from ISK 6,990 / £40 / €46. Apart from the geothermal bathing experience, visitors can enjoy a silica mud mask, sauna, and steam rooms, among other amenities. For an extra luxurious treat, opt for an in-water massage or try their exclusive skincare products.
Recommended tour: From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon Entry with Round-Trip Transfers
Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon, or ‘Gamla Laugin’, in the village of Fludir, offers a more authentic Icelandic hot spring experience.
Location and Facilities
Unlike the man-made Blue Lagoon, this natural hot spring is set in a beautiful open landscape, giving bathers a stunning view of the surrounding scenery. It has dressing facilities and a small café serving local refreshments.
Experiences and Costs
Admission to the Secret Lagoon costs ISK 3,000 / £30 / €35 for adults, with discounted rates for children and seniors. The temperature of the pool is 38-40°C all year round, making it a perfect warm escape, especially in winter.
Recommended tour: Secret Lagoon Admission
Mývatn Nature Baths
Located in the north, Mývatn Nature Baths is another popular geothermal spa. It’s a perfect alternative to the Blue Lagoon, but with fewer crowds and equally amazing amenities.
Location and Facilities
Situated near Lake Mývatn, this nature bath offers panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. The facility includes a large geothermal lagoon, steam baths, and a restaurant.
Experiences and Costs
A trip to Mývatn Nature Baths costs ISK 5,000 for adults, and you can enjoy the geothermal waters, steam baths, and the stunning surroundings at your leisure.
Recommended tour: Myvatn Bath Admission
Off-the-Beaten Path Natural Spas
For those looking for less crowded, off-the-beaten-path experiences, there are plenty of hidden gems scattered around Iceland.
Fontana Geothermal Baths
Located in the small town of Laugarvatn, Fontana Geothermal Baths is a natural spa that offers an authentic Icelandic bathing experience.
Location and Facilities
Situated on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, this geothermal spa includes various hot pools, steam baths, and a Finnish-style sauna. A unique feature is the geothermal bakery where traditional Icelandic rye bread is baked in the hot sands.
Experiences and Costs
With tickets starting at ISK 3,800 / £40 / €45, visitors can take a dip in the baths, indulge in a sauna experience, and even witness the unique process of geothermal baking.
Drangsnes Hot Tubs
If you’re journeying to the Westfjords, don’t miss the opportunity to stop by Drangsnes.
Location and Facilities
Here, right by the sea, you’ll find three small hot tubs, perfect for a relaxing soak. The best part? They’re free to use!
Experiences and Costs
No costs are involved here. These hot tubs offer a simple and rustic experience, allowing bathers to enjoy the stunning fjord views and possibly even a glimpse of sea life!
Our Personal Favourite, SKY LAGOON!
An unparalleled fusion of natural beauty and relaxation, Sky Lagoon is Iceland’s newest geothermal spa experience. The lagoon provides a perfect escape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a tranquil oasis while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the vast Icelandic skies.
Location and Facilities
Situated in Kársnes Harbour, Kópavogur, Sky Lagoon is conveniently close to Reykjavík, making it an easily accessible retreat from the city. Its 70-metre infinity-edge geothermal lagoon blends seamlessly into the ocean horizon, creating a captivating illusion of endless skies and waters.
Designed to reflect traditional Icelandic turf houses, Sky Lagoon’s facilities are impressively sleek yet rooted in cultural authenticity. In addition to the lagoon, the spa offers a sauna, cold plunge pool, relaxation spaces, and an in-lagoon bar.
Experiences and Costs
Sky Lagoon is renowned for its ‘7-step Ritual’ which blends the healing properties of geothermal waters, heat, and cold therapy. This rejuvenating journey begins with a soak in the lagoon, followed by a heat cleanse in the sauna, a cold plunge, a relaxation phase, and concludes with another dip in the lagoon.
Tickets for the 7-step Ritual start from ISK 6,990 / £60-£70 / €65-€75 for adults, with higher-priced tickets offering additional amenities like towels, robes, slippers, and skincare treatments. Refreshments and drinks are available for purchase at the in-lagoon bar and the spa’s restaurant.
Remember, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance for the Sky Lagoon, especially during peak times. Prices and availability may change, so be sure to check the official website for the most current information.
Tips for Visiting Natural Spas in Iceland
When planning your spa adventure in Iceland, here are some useful tips.
Best Time to Visit
While you can visit these spas year-round, the experience can differ significantly depending on the season. The summer months offer long days and mild weather, while winter provides the chance to bathe under the Northern Lights.
What to Pack
Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a waterproof bag for your wet items. If you’re planning to visit during the colder months, a woolly hat and gloves will make the dash from the changing rooms to the hot springs more comfortable.
Health Considerations
Remember to hydrate and use sunscreen. The hot water can dehydrate you, and even on cloudy days, UV radiation in Iceland can be high due to the country’s proximity to the Arctic Circle.
Recommended Tours
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned spa-goer or a first-timer, the natural spas in Iceland offer unforgettable experiences. From the renowned Blue Lagoon to the lesser-known Drangsnes hot tubs, each spa provides unique amenities and breathtaking views. So go ahead, dive in and let Iceland’s geothermal waters rejuvenate your body and soul!
Thank you for reading. Bless (goodbye)!
Related articles: The best time to visit Iceland
Recommended websites: Iceland government website , Road checker , Visit Iceland Travel Website , Aurora forecast checker
Author
Nick Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can children visit the natural spas in Iceland?
Most spas allow children, but age limits and prices may vary. It’s best to check the official websites before your visit.
2. Are natural spas in Iceland open all year round?
Yes, most natural spas in Iceland are open throughout the year. However, some might have different opening hours depending on the season.
3. What is the average cost of visiting a natural spa in Iceland?
Prices vary depending on the spa and the facilities it offers. On average, entry fees range from free to about ISK 7,000 or £40 / €45.
4. Can I visit natural spas without a pre-booked ticket?
It’s always best to book in advance, especially for popular spas like the Blue Lagoon, to secure your spot.
5. Do the natural spas in Iceland offer any additional health and wellness services?
Yes, many spas offer additional services such as massages, silica mud masks, steam and sauna rooms, and more. You can find detailed information on their official websites.
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