Thermal baths of Iceland
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Iceland sits on a plate boundary, so geothermal water surfaces almost everywhere. This set covers seven baths, from polished lagoons near Reykjavík to a wild hot river you reach on foot. The table below lists each one's type, temperature and region, and the FAQ answers the booking and etiquette questions.
Seven thermal baths of Iceland - type, water temperature and region
| Bath | Type | Water, °C | Region | Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Lagoon | artificial | 37-39 | Reykjanes | Milky-blue silica water |
| Sky Lagoon | artificial | 38-40 | Kópavogur | Ocean-view infinity edge |
| Mývatn Nature Baths | artificial | 36-40 | North | Quieter northern alternative to Blue Lagoon |
| Secret Lagoon | natural | 38-40 | Golden Circle | Old natural pool (Gamla Laugin) |
| Reykjadalur | natural | 38-40 | South | Hot river, free, ~45-min hike |
| GeoSea | artificial | 38-39 | Húsavík (North) | Geothermal seawater above the bay |
| Fontana | artificial | 38-40 | Golden Circle | Steam baths over hot springs by the lake |
Places7
FAQ4
Do I need to book the baths in advance?
Book the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon online ahead of time - in summer the slots sell out days in advance. Wild spots like the Reykjadalur hot river need no booking; you just walk in.
Which baths are free or natural?
The hot river in the Reykjadalur valley is free, but it takes about a 45-minute uphill walk to reach it. The Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) near Flúðir is an old natural pool fed by hot springs.
Do I really have to shower naked before the pool?
Yes. It is a basic rule of Icelandic hygiene: everyone showers without a swimsuit in the communal showers before entering the water. It is not one venue's quirk but the standard at every pool in the country.
What is geothermal water good for, and can I bring kids?
The water is mineral-rich; the Blue Lagoon's high silica content was shown in 1990s studies to benefit psoriasis. Most baths welcome children, but check each place's age limits before you go.