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Icelandic bathing culture is a tradition that can be traced back centuries. It is definitely an experience not to be missed on any trip to Iceland. Experiencing a natural thermal pool amongst the majestic beauty of the Icelandic landscape is my top recommendation for anyone travelling to this island. So… I’ve pulled together a list of my favourite free hot springs in Iceland, because as the saying goes, the best things in life are free.
Travelling and making memories does not have to cost the earth, and while Iceland sometimes gets a bad rep for being expensive for travellers, there are ways to have an incredible trip without breaking the bank. The price tag of some of the more popular pools can be prohibitive for those on a budget, while some of us just want a more authentic and natural experience. Here’s some tips on how to experience those geothermal pools and save some money by visiting free hot springs in Iceland!

Top FREE Hot Springs in Iceland
Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool

Let me introduce you to my favourite free hot springs in Iceland. Seriously, I didn’t want to get out. This is Seljavallalaug, a hot spring swimming pool on the Southern coast of Iceland, that was built in 1923. It is the oldest man-made swimming pool in Iceland, fun fact for all my fellow history nerds out there. It was originally built to teach the local children how to swim, and now continues life as a swimming spot for curious explorers. It’s sometimes called the abandoned pool, but it is definitely a popular spot for travellers. But, when we visited there were only three other people there, and at one point we had the entire place to ourselves.
Whilst the pool is man-made, the geothermally heated water flows naturally into the pool. The geothermal water flows through the rocks at the side of the pool so the water is much warmer at this side of the pool closer to the source. However, the entire pool is a pleasant temperature. We visited in early March and jumped right in! The pool has depth and is long enough to swim some lengths.
Seljavallalaug is off the beaten track, even for Icelandic road trip standards, making it all the more magical when you finally get to immerse yourself in that warm water. The pool is south of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier and volcano in a beautiful remote, mountainside location with a (very cold) glacier river to look out upon. The scenery is truly incredible. It feels like you are in another world.
It is around 20 minutes hike from the closest parking location, and you will walk alongside the river to reach the pool. The path is unpaved so I definitely recommend wearing hiking boots or suitable footwear, and taking your time. It is relatively easy to get to and doesn’t have very many hills to climb.
Getting to Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
From Reykjavik, follow the Ring Road east for approximately 1.5 hours, and then turn onto Route 242. The road will become bumpy and has quite a few pot holes. You will eventually reach a car park where you can begin your short hike to the swimming pool.
Nearby on this route, you can also visit some incredible sights of Iceland’s southern coast including the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, as well as the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers.
Driving Time from Reykjavik to Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
It will take between 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool car park from Reykjavik when driving. There is a short hike following arrival at the car park which takes around 20 minutes.
Facilities at Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
- Entry Fee: None
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Changing Rooms: Yes!
- Other facilities: None
The changing facilities at Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool are basic. It is a free hot springs in Iceland after all. There is nowhere to shower and the changing rooms are not heated, so make sure to bring some dry clothes to wear after bathing. Flip flops or wet shoes are also helpful for the changing rooms.
There are no bins in the area and as only a team of volunteers maintain the pool, visitors have left a lot of items behind including rubbish that really should have been taken with them. One of the changing rooms was filled with this and was unusable. If we had known, we would have brought some bin bags with us and cleared it out. It’s nice to give back when these facilities are there for us to experience, especially when they are free hot springs in Iceland! If you do have any rubbish, please bring it back with you and keep this facility and area beautiful.
The pool itself is only cleaned once per year and water flow into and out of the pool is minimal, so there can be some hygiene concerns to consider.
There are no lifeguards or other safety measures, so do take care when swimming.
Tips for Visiting Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
- Trip duration: The trip to Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool is a perfect one day trip from Reykjavik. You need at least 2-4 hours, based on spending around an hour in the pool. If you are doing a road trip rather than staying in Reykjavik, it is a perfect stop along the way, located directly off the Ring Road. You will need at least two hours and a half for a stop here. We suggest planning around 3-4 hours in your itinerary in order to fully enjoy everything this free hot springs in Iceland has to offer.
- Clothes: The hike to the pool isn’t very difficult but we still recommend hiking shoes. Icelandic weather can change quickly so make sure you have some warm clothes. Remember to bring swimwear, towels, wet shoes or flip flops, and a waterproof bag to put your wet things in post-bathe.
- Food: There are no amenities nearby so be sure to bring some snacks and a drink with you. There are plenty of gas/petrol stations along the Ring Road that offer food options (seriously, try a hot dog!) and towns often have supermarkets such as Bónus or Krónan.
- Kids: Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool is definitely family friendly and would be a very exciting experience with kids. The hike would take longer with small children but is definitely manageable. Just remember there are no toilets, showers or lifeguards here.
- Winter: The hike would be more intense during winter, especially as the weather can be so changeable. We visited in early March and had some snow here. If you do decide to visit in the winter months, make sure you are prepared with warm clothes and good hiking boots. The pool itself might also be colder.
- Summer: The pool water can be green at times throughout the year, particularly summer, if algae is growing. This can also make the pool sides and floor slightly slippery.
- Price: FREE! 365 days a year. This pool is maintained by local volunteers and there is a donation box where you can deposit a few ISK to support the upkeep. This is a free hot springs in Iceland so please donate if you can to ensure these facilities continue to exist for our adventures.
Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

Have you ever imagined bathing in a thermal river surrounded by mountains? Well, you can do more than imagine it in Iceland! At Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, you can do just that in one of the most unique free hot springs in Iceland. Reykjadalur translates to ‘steam valley’ which is such a fitting title for one of the most famous locations in Iceland.
The river is part of the active geothermal system of Hengill. The water is heated in the surrounding hot springs and flows gently downstream creating a wonderful natural bathing place. Whilst the pool is man-made, the geothermally heated water flows naturally into the pool. The geothermal water flows through the rocks at the side of the pool so the water is much warmer at this side of the pool closer to the source. However, the entire pool is a pleasant temperature. We visited in early March and jumped right in! The pool has depth and is long enough to swim some lengths.
Reykjadalur isn’t exactly off the beaten track, despite there being a hike to the river. It is very popular and is even a stop on some Icelandic guided tours. This doesn’t mean that your visit will be any less magical though! There is more than enough river for everyone, but you are unlikely to have the place to yourselves. The give and take of finding free hot springs in Iceland. The scenery and experience more than makes some business worth it. Early mornings around 7am or evening visits often see the least visitors if it is very important to you.
It is around 45 minutes hike from the closest parking location, and you will walk on a steady but manageable incline through a geothermally active area. The start of the path is the steepest. There are a lot of sights to see along the way so add some extra time to stop for photographs – and there are plenty of opportunities.
You will see the Djúpagilsfoss waterfall on your way to the river, as well as mud pots and hot springs that reach dangerously high temperatures. Do not leave the path to ensure your own safety and to protect the unique Icelandic environment. The path is wide and well managed but I still recommend wearing hiking boots or suitable footwear. The path can be muddy and slippery if you visit in winter or during some rainfall.
After the short hike you will reach a section of the river lined with wooden platforms, and some changing stalls. The stalls are not enclosed so be prepared to change in the open with a little shielding from the wind. The further you travel up the river, the warmer the water gets. This means you can find a spot that suits the temperature you like. The water is clear and the hike to reach the river makes the bathing feel even more relaxing.
Getting to Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
From Reykjavik, follow the Ring Road east for approximately 40 minutes. Reykjadalur is located close to the town of Hvergerði. Once you come to Breiðamörk roundabout, follow the Breiðamörk road. Iceland usually has locations well signposted so you can follow the signs for Reykjadalur .You will eventually reach a car park with a café called Reykjadalur Skáli / Lodge (and toilets!) where you can begin your hike to the river. The parking area can get full when it is busy, but you are able to leave your car along the side of the road.
Nearby on this route, you can visit the majestic sights of the Golden Circle including Thingvellir National Park.
Driving Time from Reykjavik to Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
It will take between 40 minutes to 1 hour to reach Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River car park from Reykjavik when driving. There is a short hike following arrival at the car park which takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on how many photo stops you make along the way.
There are also guided tours to visit Reykjadalur making it a great option if you are staying in Reykjavik but want to experience a wild natural hot springs nestled amongst the Icelandic mountains.
Facilities at Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
- Entry Fee: None
- Toilets: Not at the river. Available at Reykjadalur Skáli / Lodge at the start of the trail.
- Showers: No
- Changing Rooms: Yes! Sort of… They are open changing stalls.
- Other facilities: Not at the river. Available at Reykjadalur Skáli / Lodge at the start of the trail.
The changing facilities at Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River are basic. It is a free hot springs in Iceland. There is nowhere to shower and the changing stalls are open, so make sure to bring some dry clothes to wear after bathing. Flip flops or wet shoes are also helpful for the boardwalk.
There are no bins in the area so if you do have any rubbish, please bring it back with you and keep this area beautiful.
There are no lifeguards or other safety measures, so do take care when bathing. The river doesn’t have any deep sections suitable for swimming.
Tips for Visiting Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
- Trip duration: The trip to Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is a great one day trip from Reykjavik. You need at least 3-4 hours, based on spending around an hour in the pool. If you are doing a road trip rather than staying in Reykjavik, it is a perfect stop along the way, located directly off the Ring Road. You will need at least two hours and a half for a stop here. We suggest planning around 3-4 hours in your itinerary in order to fully enjoy everything this free hot springs in Iceland has to offer.
- Clothes: The hike to the river isn’t very difficult but we still recommend hiking shoes. Icelandic weather can change quickly so make sure you have some warm clothes. Remember to bring swimwear, towels, wet shoes or flip flops, and a waterproof bag to put your wet things in post-bathe.
- Food: There is a café at the beginning of the trail, where you park. Feel free to also bring food, snacks and drinks with you to the river. There are plenty of gas/petrol stations along the Ring Road that offer food options (seriously, try a hot dog!) and towns often have supermarkets such as Bónus or Krónan. The closest town of Hvergerði has great options for eating.
- Kids: Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is definitely family friendly and would be a very exciting experience with kids. The hike would take longer with small children but is definitely manageable. Just remember there are no toilets, showers or lifeguards here.
- Winter: The hike would be more intense during winter, especially as the weather can be so changeable. If you do decide to visit in the winter months, make sure you are prepared with warm clothes and good hiking boots. The path is likely to have snow or ice. The river might be slightly colder further down.
- Summer: The path might be slippy if it has been raining so hiking boots are still recommended.
- Price: FREE! 365 days a year. An incredible wild and natural free hot springs in Iceland.
Hrunalaug

Hrunalaug (or Hruni Hot Springs) is one of the most picturesque free hot springs in Iceland. I would describe it as a hidden gem but it has become increasingly popular with travellers. Located on a privately owned farm, the two pools of Hrunalaug began their lives as sheep washing stations. They are stone-walled and concrete pools, set amongst fields with a view of Icelandic mountains in the distance. It is one of the more secluded options and depending upon when you visit can be extremely peaceful. What could give you a more authentic Icelandic bathing experience than this?
Hrunalaug has two pools, a larger one that can fit around 8 people, and a smaller one that can fit around 2-3 people. The pools can get large numbers of visitors, so it can sometimes become crowded when visiting. Try visiting first thing in the morning or later into the evening if possible to avoid the peak hours. The water in both pools remains constantly warm with a temperature of 37-40 degrees Celsius. Perfect for relaxing and having a cosy experience amongst nature.
Hrunalaug is in Southern Iceland, close to the small town of Flúðir, offering you the chance to visit a beautiful, natural spot close to Reykjavik. It is around 3 minutes walk from the closest parking location, across flat farm land. I still recommend wearing hiking boots or suitable footwear, and taking your time. It is very easy to get to.
The owner of Hrunalaug has had to spend time collecting litter and cleaning up the pools following visits from tourists, so please take any and all rubbish with you when you are leaving. This is a privately owned pool that is being shared with us for free. We must treat it with respect and gratitude. There is also no camping allowed at this site. Let’s ensure this space is as tranquil as possible.
Getting to Hrunalaug
From Reykjavik, drive towards Flúðir for approximately 80 minutes. Before you arrive in the town of Flúðir, turn off onto road 344 signposted with Hruni. Follow this road for around 3 kilometres (1.2 miles) and then turn off onto road 345, also signposted with Hruni. Keep an eye out for a small sign on the right hand side for Sólheimar (you will pass a church on the left before the sign) and turn here. The car park will be in front of you just a few hundred metres. The pools are a short 5 minute walk from the car park.
Nearby on this route, you can visit the majestic sights of the Golden Circle including Gullfoss waterfall. Hrunalaug is only around 35 minutes drive from here. It is also close to another pool (that has an entry fee) called the Secret Lagoon. If you wanted to visit both in one day that is possible as the Secret Lagoon is only about 10 minutes drive away from Hrunalaug. The Secret Lagoon is not one of the free hot springs in Iceland but it is still an incredible place to visit.
Driving Time from Reykjavik to Hrunalaug
It will take around 80-90 minutes to reach Hrunalaug car park from Reykjavik when driving. The pools are only 5 minutes walk from the car park.
Facilities at Hrunalaug
- Entry Fee: None
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Changing Rooms: Yes!
- Other facilities: No
The changing facilities at Hrunalaug are basic. It is a free hot springs in Iceland on privately owned land. There is nowhere to shower and the changing room is a small turf-roofed building looking onto the small pool, so make sure to bring some dry clothes to wear after bathing. Flip flops or wet shoes are also helpful.
There are no bins in the area so if you do have any rubbish, please bring it back with you and keep this area beautiful. This is of the utmost importance. Please remember this is a free hot springs in Iceland. Take care of it!
There are no lifeguards or other safety measures, so do take care when bathing. The pools are small and have no suitable areas for swimming.
No camping is permitted here.
Tips for Visiting Hrunalaug
- Trip duration: The trip to Hrunalaug is a great one day trip from Reykjavik. You need at least 2-3 hours, based on spending around an hour in the pool. If you are doing a road trip rather than staying in Reykjavik, it is a perfect stop along the way, located close to the Golden Circle. You will need at least two hours and a half for a stop here. We suggest planning around 3 hours in your itinerary in order to fully enjoy everything this amazing location has to offer.
- Clothes: The walk to the pool only takes around 3 minutes over farm land but we still recommend hiking shoes. Icelandic weather can change quickly so make sure you have some warm clothes. Remember to bring swimwear, towels, wet shoes or flip flops, and a waterproof bag to put your wet things in post-bathe.
- Food: There are no amenities nearby so be sure to bring some snacks and a drink with you. There are plenty of gas/petrol stations around Iceland that offer eating options and towns often have supermarkets such as Bónus or Krónan. The closest town Flúðir has some eating, shopping and accommodation options.
- Kids: Hrunalaug is definitely family friendly and would be a fantastic experience with kids, especially as there is no hike to reach the pool. Just remember there are no toilets, showers or lifeguards here.
- Winter: The water in these hot springs remains at a constant temperature all year, so it is perfect for a winter bath. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the northern lights whilst you are relaxing in the pool.
- Summer: It’s worth visiting late in the evening or even during the night in summer season. There is almost 24 hours of daylight in Iceland during June and July, so you could have some peaceful exploring and bathing time at these free hot springs in Iceland. What could be more magical?
- Price: FREE! 365 days a year. This pool is owned and maintained by local farmers. There is a donation box where you can deposit between 1000 and 2000 ISK to support the upkeep of these free hot springs in Iceland.
Kvika Foot Bath
Kvika geothermal foot bath on the northwestern tip of Seltjarnarnes Peninsula is one of the lesser known and visited free hot springs in Iceland. Maybe because it’s just for your feet, or maybe because it’s in Raykjavik and is competing with the Blue Lagoon. But, this hot springs is most definitely worth a visit, not least for the incredible views. At this cosy and comforting spot located within walking distance of Reykjavik city centre, you can see Mount Esja and sometimes even the Snæfellsjökull glacier in the west of Iceland!
This foot bath is man-made, and was actually designed by artist Ólöf Nordal. Ólöf carved a 25-30cm deep, by 80-90cm wide space in a rock to create a foot bath which is then fed by a nearby borehole. The water temperature remains a consistent 39 degrees Celsius throughout the year, perfect for warming up those toes in winter and bringing a bit of cosiness in summer too! The rock edges of the foot bath act as a comfortable seat.
Kvika is a perfect location to unwind close to Reykjavik city centre, watch a sunrise or a sunset, and try to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. It is situated near Grótta lighthouse which creates a beautiful ambiance. It’s understandable why this spot is popular amongst locals for dates, as well as family gatherings. For travellers who are staying in and around Reykjavik, it is a great way to experience a different free hot springs in Iceland. It would also be a great option for those who don’t want to bathe for whatever reason.
Getting to Kvika Foot Bath
From Reykjavik, drive towards Eiðsgrandi and Norðurströnd from the city for around 10 minutes. As you continue on Norðurströnd, there will be a small car park where you will be able to access Kvika foot bath from.
The foot bath is close to Reykjavik city centre where you can visit Hallgrimskirkja, a cathedral with an incredible design and tower. I also thoroughly recommend visiting Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron) restaurant for the best lobster soup you will ever have. Trust me.
Driving Time from Reykjavik to Kvika Foot Bath
It will take around 15 minutes to reach Kvika foot bath car park from Reykjavik centre when driving. The foot bath is only a few minutes walk from the car park.
You could also walk to this location from the centre of Reykjavik in approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. The ground is mostly flat and paved. There is also the sculpture and shore walk along the coast to follow. What an experience to then rest your feet in this unique free hot springs in Iceland.
Facilities at Kvika Foot Bath
- Entry Fee: None
- Toilets: No
- Showers: No
- Changing Rooms: No
- Other facilities: No
Kvika is a foot bath only, so there is no need for any changing facilities.
There aren’t many bins in the area so if you do have any rubbish, please bring it back with you and keep this area beautiful and clean.
There are no lifeguards or other safety measures as this is a foot bath only.
Tips for Visiting Kvika Foot Bath
- Trip duration: The trip to Kvika foot bath is a great activity to do while in Reykjavik. You need at least 2 hours, based on spending around around an hour at the pool. If you are doing a road trip rather than staying in Reykjavik, it is a perfect stop before you leave the city centre, or on your final day before heading to the airport. You will need at least an hour here. We suggest planning around 2 hours in your itinerary in order to fully enjoy everything this amazing location has to offer.
- Clothes: The walk to the pool only takes a few minutes over some rocks but we still recommend hiking shoes. Icelandic weather can change quickly so make sure you have some warm clothes. Remember to bring a towel to dry your feet afterwards. This is a small foot bath and as such there are no changing facilities.
- Food: The foot bath is close to Reykjavik city centre so there are plenty of options nearby. Bring some drinks and snacks with you and enjoy the views.
- Kids: Kvika foot bath is definitely family friendly and would be a fantastic experience with kids, especially as they aren’t getting completely wet. They can have a little paddle and enjoy the sea. Just remember there are no toilets, changing facilities or lifeguards here as it is only a foot bath.
- Winter: The water in these hot springs remains at a constant temperature all year, so it is perfect for warming your toes in winter while trying to catch sight of those beautiful northern lights.
- Summer: Kvika foot bath is perfect to visit in summer too. Grab an ice cream and head on down.
- Price: FREE! 365 days a year. Incredible opportunity to experience such a unique free hot springs in Iceland.
Landmannalaugar Hot Spring

Landmannalaugar, otherwise known as ‘the people’s pools’, is an incredible area of free hot springs in Iceland, in the southern Highlands to be exact, within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It was once a semi-remote retreat for travellers passing through the area who could take a break and rest their bones in the thermal waters. That tradition continues with adventurers and hikers making their way to the hot springs to relax and recharge. There is even a campsite right beside the hot springs for a true adventure.
The hot springs are situated on the edge of the Laugahraun lava field, formed after a volcanic eruption in 1477! This region has a unique geological landscape which makes it incredible beautiful. The pool is surrounded by rhyolite mountains which shimmer in a beautiful array of colours as you bathe in the natural thermal waters. Even the journey to reach the springs is filled with incredible sights, including Bláhylur lake, a lake in a dormant volcano.
The pool has warm temperatures all year round, staying at between 36 to 40 degrees Celsius. During the summer season (June to September), Landmannalaugar is at the start of a very popular hiking trail – Laugavegur Trail – so the area can be popular. Even in summer this location requires a 4×4 to navigate the roads, because you have to cross some rivers. If you do plan to drive here, please check your car rental insurance covers it! The roads are closed for mass transit in the winter season, so it is really only recommended to visit at this time of year as part of a super jeep tour.
Getting to Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
Landmannalaugar is in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, located about 188km (117 miles) from Reykjavik. From Reykjavik, follow the Ring Road through Hvergerði, on to Selfoss and continue for approximately 13km. Turn left onto road 30, Skeiða- og Hrunamannavegur. Follow this road for around 18km until you reach and turn right onto road 32, Þjórsárdalsvegur. Continue on this road for around 50km, and then the road will change to F26, Sprengisandsleið.
Continue following this road straight for 19km and you will pass the Hrauneyjar Highland Center. Don’t turn off and continue to follow the main road until you see F208, Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri, where you turn right. This road will lead you to the hot springs as well as a camp site. You will need to cross rivers to reach this area, but if you do not feel comfortable there is parking available before the main river crossing. There is a footbridge across the river, so don’t worry about having to swim across. The hot springs and camp site are only 10 minutes walk from this parking spot.
Nearby on this route, you can visit several waterfalls including Hjálparfoss and Sigoldufoss. Please remember that F roads are really only designed for 4×4 vehicles and are often closed in bad weather conditions as well as winter months. Check to make sure the roads are open prior to beginning your journey on the Safe Travel website.
Driving Time from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
It will take approximately 3 hours to reach Landmannalaugar Hot Spring car park from Reykjavik when driving. This is without stops and there are many places to stop along the way for photographs, as well as other attractions.
There are also guided tours to visit Landmannalaugar Hot Spring making it a great option if you are staying in Reykjavik but want to experience the most remote free hot springs in Iceland. There is also a bus shuttle from Reykjavik which is designed to be able to cross the rivers and can make for an excellent adventure as well as cheaper option!
Facilities at Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
- Entry Fee: None
- Toilets: Not at the hot springs. Available at the nearby campsite for a fee.
- Showers: Not at the hot springs. Available at the nearby campsite for a fee.
- Changing Rooms: Not at the hot springs. Available at the nearby campsite for a fee.
- Other facilities: Not at the hot springs. Available at the nearby campsite for a fee.
The facilities at Landmannalaugar campsite include toilets, showers, BBQ and cooking facilities, as well as a dining space. There is even a store to buy some provisions! A beautiful facility right beside a free hot springs in Iceland! There is also the Landmannalaugar Visitor Center nearby. If you decide not to use the facilities then make sure to bring some dry clothes to wear after bathing. Flip flops or wet shoes are also helpful.
There are no bins in the area so if you do have any rubbish, please bring it back with you and keep this area beautiful.
There are no lifeguards or other safety measures, so do take care when bathing.
Previously, parasites have been found in the pools. They have been considered non-harmful but may cause a rash if present. If you are allergic to mosquito bites or if you have health concerns, you may prefer not to enter these hot springs.
Tips for Visiting Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
- Trip duration: The trip to Landmannalaugar Hot Spring is a great one day trip from Reykjavik. You need at least 7-8 hours, based on spending around an hour in the pool. If you are doing a road trip rather than staying in Reykjavik, it is a perfect way to explore the Icelandic Highlands. We suggest planning around 8 hours in your itinerary in order to fully enjoy everything this amazing location has to offer.
- Trip duration: There is also the option to plan one or multi-day hikes while you are here. A great option if you have time to spend here to explore some of the most incredible scenery and terrain in Iceland. There is also a campsite right beside the hot springs and even if you only plan on visiting the springs themselves, I highly recommend planning to spend the night here. It is a popular location though so don’t forget to book! There is an option of staying in a mountain hut or pitching your own tent.
- Clothes: The walk to the pool only takes around 10 minutes over a foot bridge and flat land, but we still recommend hiking shoes. Icelandic weather can change quickly, especially in the Highlands, so make sure you have some warm clothes. Remember to bring swimwear, towels, wet shoes or flip flops, and a waterproof bag to put your wet things in post-bathe.
- Food: There are basic facilities at the nearby campsite including a small shop, but be sure to bring some snacks and drinks with you. There are plenty of gas/petrol stations around Iceland that offer eating options and towns often have supermarkets such as Bónus or Krónan. The roads here can be quite difficult to navigate to I recommend stopping at Selfoss on the way.
- Kids: Landmannalaugar Hot Spring is definitely family friendly and would be a fantastic experience with kids, especially as there is no hike to reach the hot springs and they get the excitement of crossing a river. Just remember there are no toilets, showers or lifeguards here. Facilities available are chargeable from the nearby campsite but the pool itself is one of the most incredible free hot springs in Iceland. A memory the kids would never forget.
- Winter: The water in these hot springs remains at a constant temperature all year, so it is perfect for a winter bath. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the northern lights whilst you are relaxing in the pool. BUT, please remember that F roads in Iceland are not suitable for travelling in winter months so it is recommended to travel to Landmannalaugar Hot Spring as part of a tour only.
- Summer: The best and easiest months to visit Landmannalaugar Hot Spring are June – September. The temperature will be between 5-15 degrees Celsius so a dip in the hot springs will still be very welcome, especially if you do some hiking.
- Price: FREE! 365 days a year. The nearby campsite has chargeable facilities should you need them.

Free Hot Springs in Iceland Round-Up
I hope you enjoyed this selection of the my top 5 favourite free hot springs in Iceland. The land of ice and fire is filled with beautiful hot springs that are just waiting for you to visit and enjoy. Have you visited any or will you add any of these to your list for your next Icelandic adventure?
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Comments
These are sound amazing to be fair, but I think the one I like the look of the most is the Kvika Foot Bath or Hrunalaug. I love your suggestion of watching the Northern Lights while sat in the thermal springs. What an epic thing to do 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing 🙂
Author
Thanks so much Lindsay! Kvika is so great because it’s so easy to get to on a short break – no need for a road trip. Any sighting of the Northern Lights in Iceland is incredible but those thermal springs just make it even better. Thanks for reading!