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The Nordic Nomad

Iceland

Heavenly soak: Iceland’s 8 best hot springs and thermal baths

The Nordics • See & do • Heavenly soak: Iceland’s 8 best hot springs and thermal baths

The full guide to Iceland’s best thermal escapes

Welcome to Iceland, land of fire and ice, where geothermal wonders abound in rugged landscapes. Embark on a journey to explore the country’s finest hot springs and thermal baths, nestled amid volcanic valleys, glaciers, and Northern Lights. Dive into the soothing warmth of these mineral-rich waters and create unforgettable memories in Iceland’s geothermal heart with our guide to the ultimate geothermal retreats.

Sky Lagoon

Discover Sky Lagoon, Iceland’s breathtaking geothermal gem, where ancient Norse bathing culture meets cutting-edge Nordic design by architect Halldór Eiríksson, a partner at T.ark Architects. Just 15 minutes from Reykjavik, this immersive swim and spa experience boasts a turf house exterior, a swim-up bar, and stunning ocean views. Sustainability is key, with geothermal energy keeping the lagoon warm and powering the venue. Relax in style at the Smakk Bar, sampling Sandholt pastries and the purest Icelandic water.

Read the full article on Sky Lagoon.

Sky Lagoon
Vesturvör 44-48
Kópavogur
Iceland

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Photography courtesy of Sky Lagoon

Blue Lagoon

Immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon, where geothermal waters rejuvenate your body and spirit. Surrounded by otherworldly lava fields, this enchanting oasis features two luxurious accommodations: the minimalist-chic The Retreat at Blue Lagoon and the elegant Silica Hotel, both designed by Basalt Architects. Experience ultimate relaxation while indulging in spa treatments, private dining, and mesmerising views.

Read the full article on Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon
Norðurljósavegur 9
Grindavík
Iceland

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Photography courtesy of Blue Lagoon

Seljavallalaug

Discover the hidden gem of Seljavallalaug, one of Iceland’s oldest and most picturesque geothermal pools. Nestled in a secluded valley amidst verdant mountains and cascading waterfalls, this tranquil oasis is a dream come true for adventure-seeking, design-conscious travellers. Immerse yourself in the pool’s warm, mineral-rich waters, and soak in the awe-inspiring natural surroundings as you unwind and rejuvenate. Journey to Seljavallalaug for a unique and unforgettable off-the-beaten-path Icelandic experience.

Seljavallalaug
Evindarhólar
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Seljavallalaug

Geosea

Geosea beckons travellers to experience its exquisite allure with its collection of circular infinity pools and a sauna that sits perched atop a cliff edge in Húsavík. Marvel at the masterfully designed concrete and pillar structure, nestled within a grassy hillock beside the vibrant yellow Húsavíkurviti lighthouse. As you unwind in the 39-degree baths, feast your eyes on the breathtaking view of Skjálfandi Bay, where the occasional humpback whale sighting adds a touch of magic to this haven.

Geosea
Vitaslóð 1
Húsavík
Iceland

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Photography courtesy of Geosea

Vök Baths

Vök Baths, a mesmerizing geothermal destination, offers an unforgettable experience. Opened in 2019 and nestled on the serene Lake Urriðavatn in East Iceland, it is a must-visit near the bustling town of Egilsstaðir. Designed by Basalt Architects, Vök Baths provides a breathtaking bathing experience, boasting incredible views of the lake and its surroundings. Submerge yourself in Iceland’s pristine landscape and savour the country’s first series of geothermal floating pools, for an unmatched immersion into nature.

Read the article on Vök Baths.

Vök Baths
Egilsstadir
Iceland

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Photography courtesy of Vök Baths

Hvammsvík

Venture to Hvammsvík hot springs, located in Hvalfjörður, a mere hour from Reykjavik. Delight in the ever-changing experience of eight unique geothermal springs, where temperatures and levels are influenced by the tides. Engage with nature through activities like stand-up paddleboarding and fishing, or simply relax and absorb the tranquil setting. Choose from quaint rental homes, providing a perfect haven for contemplating the mesmerizing landscape that Iceland has to offer.

Hvammsvík
Mosfellsbær
Iceland

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Photography courtesy of Hvammsvík

Forest Lagoon

Forest Lagoon geothermal spa offers a serene escape nestled in the wooded Vaðlaskógur area, opposite Akureyri town, at the foot of Vaðlaheiði mountain. Designed by Basalt Architects, this eco-conscious haven blends geothermal and forest-bathing experiences. The stunning spa boasts a 70-meter infinity edge, swim-up bars, and a refreshing cold pool carved into the cliffside. Revel in the harmonious blend of timber and concrete architecture, as you unwind amid the gentle sounds of cascading water and whispers of the forest.

Forest Lagoon
Vaðlaskógur 605
Akureyri
Iceland

Photography courtesy of Forest Lagoon

Guðlaug Baths

Guðlaug Baths, a remarkable fusion of brutalist-inspired architecture and functionality, sits on the rocky breakwater barrier of Langisandur beach in Akranes, Iceland. Embodying the essence of natural seawater pools, this concrete marvel features three distinct tiers: a top viewing deck, the central Guðlaug bath cascading into the lower, shallow pool at beach level. Just north of the baths, the soccer stadium’s underbelly serves as a multipurpose area with changing rooms, a café and storage, offering an ideal blend of relaxation and practicality for beachgoers, pool users and sports lovers alike.