Iceland's expensive Blue Lagoon gets all the attention, but the country's best hot springs are actually free. You'll find natural pools heated by the earth itself, tucked away in valleys, next to waterfalls, and along remote coastlines. Most tourists skip these gems, which means you'll often have them to yourself.
This guide covers 10 free hot springs that locals actually use. Some require short hikes, others sit right next to parking areas, and a few need permission from landowners. But all of them offer something the commercial spas can't - a real connection to Iceland's wild landscape.
1. Kvika Footbath (Reykjavik Area)
Location:Seltjarnarnes peninsula, near Grotta Lighthouse
Temperature: 102°F (39°C)
Facilities: One bench, no changing rooms or showers
Kvika is a small circular pool designed by an Icelandic artist. It's only about 10 inches deep, so you soak your feet and lower legs while sitting on the edge. The location is what makes this special - you face the Atlantic Ocean with views of mountains and glaciers in the distance.
Getting there takes 10 minutes by car from Reykjavik's city center or 45 minutes walking. The pool sits next to Grotta Lighthouse on a black sand beach. On clear nights, you can see the Northern Lights while soaking. The water stays warm year-round because it comes from a geothermal pipe. Locals often stop by after work to relax and chat. The small size means you'll probably end up talking to other people, and Icelanders are usually happy to share stories about their city.
Location: Between Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, South IcelandTemperature: 68-86°F (20-30°C), cooler in winter
Facilities: Basic changing rooms (often damp)
This concrete pool was built in 1923, making it Iceland's oldest surviving geothermal pool. It sits in a narrow valley surrounded by mountains, fed by a hot spring that flows down the cliff face. The water looks a bit murky from natural minerals and algae, but that's normal for outdoor pools like this.
You'll need to hike about 15 minutes from the parking area along a gravel path next to a stream. The trail is easy but can get muddy. The pool is 25 meters long and deep enough for swimming. Many people visit as part of a South Coast tour since it's close to two of Iceland's most famous waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss). There are changing rooms, but they're pretty basic and often wet. Most people just change quickly by their car or behind rocks. Volunteers help maintain this pool, so you might see a donation box.
3. Reykjadalur Hot Spring River
Location: Near Hveragerði, Southwest Iceland
Temperature: 98-104°F (37-40°C)
Facilities: Small changing cabins, café at the trailhead
Reykjadalur means "Steam Valley," and you'll understand why when you see steam rising from the ground everywhere. This isn't a pool - it's an actual river heated by geothermal activity underground. Wooden walkways mark the safe spots to get in, and signs warn you away from areas that are too hot.
The hike takes 30-60 minutes from the parking area at Dalakaffi café. The trail goes uphill and can be steep in places, but it's well-marked. Once you reach the river, you can move up or downstream to find water that feels right for you. The current is gentle and actually feels nice on tired legs after the hike. This place gets busy during the day, especially in summer. Early morning or evening visits give you more space to spread out.
4. Landmannalaugar Hot Spring
Location: Central Highlands
Temperature: 104°F (40°C)
Facilities: Campsite nearby with basic amenities
Landmannalaugar sits in the middle of colorful rhyolite mountains that look like someone painted them. The hot spring is natural and shallow, surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in Iceland. This is a popular stop for hikers doing the Laugavegur Trail, so you'll meet people from all over the world.
You can only reach this place from June to September because snow makes the roads inaccessible. The drive takes 3-4 hours from Reykjavik on F-roads that require a 4WD vehicle. Regular buses also run here in summer. The spring water has lots of minerals that make your skin feel silky. The surrounding mountains glow pink and green at sunrise, and the air smells faintly of sulfur from all the volcanic activity. Hikers often gather here to share trail stories and soak their sore muscles after long days in the mountains.
5. Fosslaug Hot Spring
Location: Near Varmahlíð, North Iceland
Temperature: 100°F (38°C)
Facilities: None - change behind rocks or in car
Fosslaug is a natural stone-lined spring next to the Húseyjarkvísl River. The nearby Reykjafoss waterfall adds a soothing background noise that makes the whole experience even more peaceful. This spot feels really remote, even though it's not that hard to reach.
Drive about 3 hours from Reykjavik to Varmahlíð, then follow local signs to Reykjafoss. You'll walk 10-15 minutes across a field and cross a small stream to reach the spring. The stones around the pool have been smoothed by centuries of hot water flow, creating natural seats. At night, the lack of light pollution makes this an excellent place for stargazing. Local sheep sometimes wander nearby, adding to the rural atmosphere. You might see a small donation box for maintenance costs.
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Location: Near Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland
Temperature: 104°F (40°C)
Facilities: None - completely undeveloped
This spring sits hidden in a grassy field surrounded by lava rocks and mountains. The pool is lined with turf and stones, giving it an ancient feel that connects you to Iceland's Viking past. The bottom is muddy, which is normal for natural springs like this.
You'll drive about 2 hours from Reykjavik, then take gravel roads that might need 4WD in winter. The spring is tied to the Sturlunga Saga, a 13th-century story about Iceland's medieval period. The surrounding lava fields take on a reddish glow at sunset, making the whole area feel magical. This place is always quiet because it's hard to find and sits on private land. The earthy smell and soft turf walls create a grounding experience that feels like stepping back in time.
7. Hellulaug Pool
Location: Near Flókalundur, WestfjordsTemperature: 100°F (38°C)
Facilities: None - change in car
Hellulaug is carved into the rocky coastline where the warm water meets cold ocean waves. You'll have views of Breiðafjörður Bay, and seals sometimes pop up in the water nearby. Seabirds circle overhead, and the sound of waves hitting the rocks creates a natural soundtrack.
The drive takes about 2 hours from Reykjavik via Route 60. The pool sits right next to the road with parking directly beside it - no hiking needed. The contrast between the warm water and the cold sea air creates an interesting sensory experience. On calm evenings, the water reflects the sky and blends sunset colors with steam. If you visit in winter, you have a chance to see the Northern Lights while soaking. You might spot whales or dolphins in the bay on clear days.
8. Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring
Location: Near Sælingsdalur, West Iceland
Temperature: 99°F (37°C)
Facilities: The Nearby hotel has restrooms and a café
This reconstructed stone pool connects to the Laxdæla Saga, one of Iceland's most famous medieval stories. It's named after Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, a saga character known for her complicated love life. The pool was rebuilt in 2009 to honor its historical importance.
Drive about 2 hours from Reykjavik and park at the Edda Hotel in Laugar. The spring is a 5-minute walk from there. The grassy valley setting feels peaceful, with rolling hills all around. The small size of the pool creates an intimate atmosphere that's perfect for quiet thinking. You can combine this visit with other saga-related sites in the area, like Eiríksstaðir, home of Eirik the Red & Leif Eiriksson (the first explorers to actually get to North America).
This concrete pool sits by the sea in one of Iceland's most remote fjords. A local family maintains it and usually grants permission to visitors who ask politely. The drive takes 4-5 hours from Reykjavik through spectacular but challenging mountain roads.
You'll need to contact the landowner for permission before visiting. The pool's seaside location means you hear waves crashing while you soak. The fjord is so isolated that stars seem incredibly bright on clear nights. Winter road conditions can be difficult, so check weather reports before heading out. The family that owns this land built the pool partly to attract visitors to their remote corner of Iceland.
10. Drangsnes Hot Tubs
Location: Drangsnes, Westfjords
Temperature: 95-104°F (35-40°C), adjustable
Facilities: Small changing area
Three man-made tubs sit along the coast with views of the Arctic Ocean. Each tub features valves that allow you to adjust the temperature to your liking. The concrete design keeps the water clean and stable, which is nice after visiting more rustic natural springs.
The drive takes 4-5 hours from Reykjavik via Route 61. The tubs sit right off the main road with free parking and no hiking required. Local fishermen and residents gather here to chat, treating it like the town's living room. You might see whales or dolphins from the tubs on lucky days. The sound of seabirds and crashing waves creates a peaceful atmosphere. This is an excellent spot for Northern Lights viewing in winter.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
What to Pack: Bring swimwear, towels, and warm clothes for after your soak. Water shoes help with slippery or rocky bottoms. Most springs have no facilities, so plan to change in your car or behind rocks.
Safety: Always test water temperature with your hand first - some areas can be dangerously hot. Avoid soaking with open cuts because of natural bacteria in the water.
Road Conditions: Check www.road.is for current conditions, especially for remote springs. Many locations require 4WD vehicles, particularly in winter or for highland springs like Landmannalaugar.
Best Times: Early morning or off-season visits (April-May, September-October) mean fewer crowds. Popular springs, such as Reykjadalur, get busy midday in the summer.
Respect: Many springs sit on private land or depend on volunteers for maintenance. Leave no trace and consider making small donations where collection boxes are available. Ask permission politely for private property springs.
Planning Your Hot Spring Adventure
Iceland's free hot springs offer something no expensive spa can match - a real connection to the country's volcanic landscape. Each spring has its own character, from urban footbaths perfect for Northern Lights viewing to remote fjord pools where you might not see another person all day.
Remember that these places exist because locals care about preserving them for everyone. Treat them with respect, pack out what you bring in, and you'll help ensure they stay available for future visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Free Hot Springs in Iceland
Kvika Footbath and Drangsnes Hot Tubs are great for families. Kvika is only 10 inches deep, perfect for kids to splash around, and Drangsnes lets you adjust the water temperature. Always keep an eye on kids and check the water’s heat first.
Guided tours don’t often focus only on free hot springs, but some South Coast or Highland trips stop at places like Seljavallalaug or Landmannalaugar. Look at operators like Reykjavik Excursions for options, or drive yourself for more freedom.
Too many visitors can harm these spots by causing erosion or leaving trash. Stay on marked paths, don’t use soaps in the water, and take all your garbage with you. A small donation for upkeep helps keep these springs nice for everyone.
Fosslaug and Hellulaug are top picks for clear skies with little light pollution. Fosslaug’s remote spot in North Iceland and Hellulaug’s coastal location are great for stargazing or catching the Northern Lights in winter, especially early morning or evening.
Kvika Footbath and Drangsnes Hot Tubs are perfect for non-hikers. Kvika is a short drive from Reykjavik with no walking needed, and Drangsnes has parking right next to the tubs. Both are easy to reach and great for relaxing.
