Vök Baths is a geothermal spa on Lake Urriðavatn, about 5 minutes from Egilsstaðir in East Iceland. The big thing here is the floating infinity pools that sit right on the lake. You get wide-open views of the water and the mountains around it.
It opened in 2019 and has become one of the main stops on the Ring Road for people driving through East Iceland. It’s quieter and smaller than the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík, and the geothermal water here is certified drinkable. It’s actually the only spa in Iceland that can say that.
This guide covers what you need to plan your visit: ticket prices, whether you need to book, what the facilities are like, the best times to go (including Northern Lights chances), and how Vök compares to other Iceland spas. It also covers practical stuff like what to bring, how long to stay, and what to do nearby in East Iceland.
What Are Vök Baths?
Vök Baths is a modern geothermal spa on Lake Urriðavatn, named after the ice-free patches formed by geothermal heat. Water is drawn from 1,000 to 2,000 meters deep, reaching about 75°C before being cooled for bathing. It is certified as Iceland’s only drinkable geothermal water.
What Makes Vök Different From Wild Hot Springs
Wild hot springs are undeveloped and free, often requiring hikes and offering no facilities. Vök provides changing rooms, sauna, cold therapy, bars, and a restaurant, with consistent temperatures and chemical-free continuous water flow.
Where Are Vök Baths Located?
Vök Baths is on the western shore of Lake Urriðavatn in East Iceland, just northwest of Egilsstaðir. It is about 500 meters off Route 1 via Route 925 and 10 minutes from Egilsstaðir Airport.
Nearby Towns and Services
Egilsstaðir is the main hub for accommodation, food, gas, and supplies in East Iceland. Fellabær, across the bridge, includes many accommodations and the regional airport.
Why Visit Vök Baths?
Vök features two floating hexagonal pools with infinity edges that blend into the lake. The focus is on floating geothermal pools, certified drinkable water, and contrast bathing with hot and cold options.
What You Won’t Find at Vök
Vök does not offer massage treatments, silica mud stations, or themed spa features. The emphasis is on pools, cold therapy, tea bar, in-water bar, and the lake setting.
The In-Water Bar and Tea Bar
Admission includes herbal tea brewed with geothermal water at about 75°C. The in-water bar serves alcoholic drinks and smoothies for an extra charge, paid with a wristband at checkout.
Vök Baths Facilities & Pool Details
Vök has one main pool and two floating Vakir at 39 to 41°C, plus additional pools at 37 to 38°C. Maximum depth is 1.2 meters, with a 50°C steam sauna and cold tunnels at 10°C, plus lake access.
Changing Rooms and Hygiene Rules
Separate changing rooms, private options, lockers, and showers are available, with toiletries provided. Showering thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering is mandatory, and losing a wristband costs 5,000 ISK.
Accessibility
Wheelchairs can be borrowed, and the Disabled ticket costs 5,290 ISK. Personal assistants can enter free with advance notice.
Vök Bistro
Vök Bistro serves small plates and light meals using local ingredients, with soup around 1,990 ISK. It is open daily in summer and Friday to Sunday in winter.
Ticket Prices & Booking
Standard admission is 7,690 ISK for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, disabled guests, and children. From June 1 to August 31, walk-ins are not accepted, and maximum capacity is 202 bathers.
Cancellation Policy
More than 72 hours before booking gives a 100 percent refund, 24 to 72 hours gives 50 percent, and less than 24 hours gives no refund.
Best Time to Visit
Summer has longer hours, milder weather, and lake temperatures up to 18°C but is busiest. Winter offers shorter hours, freezing conditions, and Northern Lights opportunities, while shoulder seasons have fewer crowds.
Practical Information
Northern Lights are possible from September through March with darkness and clear skies. Most visitors spend 1.5 to 3 hours, and swimsuit and towel rentals cost 1,390 ISK each.
Rules and Safety
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and no diving or outside food is allowed. Pools range from 37 to 41°C, cold features from about 5 to 10°C, and maximum depth is 1.2 meters.
Is Vök Baths Worth It?
Vök fits easily into an East Iceland itinerary, five minutes from Egilsstaðir and just off Route 1. It offers a smaller, quieter alternative with floating pools and lake views.
Vök Baths vs Other Iceland Spas
Vök costs 7,690 ISK and has a 202 bather capacity, compared to Blue Lagoon starting around 10,500 ISK. It stands out for floating pools and certified drinkable geothermal water in East Iceland.
Things to Do Near Vök Baths
Nearby attractions include Stuðlagil Canyon 50 km west, Hengifoss waterfall 30 km south at 128 meters tall, and Hallormsstaðaskógur forest 25 km away. Seyðisfjörður, Borgarfjörður Eystri for puffins, and the East Iceland Heritage Museum are also close.
What Are Vök Baths?
Vök Baths is a modern geothermal spa built around something that’s been happening here naturally for a long time.
The name “Vök” is Icelandic for holes or openings in ice. In winter, Lake Urriðavatn freezes over, except for certain spots where geothermal heat keeps the ice from forming. Locals used those ice-free patches for practical purposes like washing clothes, and they also became tied to local stories and folklore.
The spa uses geothermal boreholes drilled about 1,000 to 2,000 meters deep. Down there, the water reaches around 75°C before it’s mixed down to comfortable bathing temperatures. The water quality is what really stands out. It’s certified as Iceland’s only drinkable geothermal water, which basically means it’s unusually pure and clean.
What Makes Vök Different From Wild Hot Springs
If you’ve seen the classic Iceland hot spring photos, the rocky pools out in the middle of nowhere, Vök is a different kind of experience. Wild hot springs are totally undeveloped. No facilities, no entry fee, and you often have to hike to reach them.
Vök is the opposite in terms of comfort. You’ve got changing rooms, showers, lockers, a sauna, cold therapy options, bars, and a restaurant. You’re paying for convenience and comfort, on top of the geothermal soaking.
The water quality is another difference. Natural springs can vary a lot in temperature and cleanliness. Vök keeps temperatures consistent and uses continuous water flow to keep the pools clean without adding chlorine or other chemicals.
Where Are Vök Baths Located?
Vök Baths sits on the western shore of Lake Urriðavatn in Austurland, which is East Iceland. It’s just northwest of Egilsstaðir, the biggest town in the region.
The exact GPS coordinates are 65.3038589, -14.449273. If you’re driving, you turn off the Ring Road (Route 1 ) onto Route 925, and Vök is immediately on your left. The turnoff is only about 500 meters from Route 1, so you’re not driving way out into the wilderness.
Distance and Driving Time From Major Points
Vök is easy to fit in if you’re already in East Iceland or doing the Ring Road.
From Reykjavík, it’s roughly 650 km and about 8 hours of driving via Route 1. Most people don’t do that in a single push. They split it up with stops along the south coast or stay overnight in towns along the way.
From Akureyri in North Iceland, it’s about 260 km and around 3 hours. That makes it a realistic stop if you’re coming from the north and want a geothermal spa before continuing around the Ring Road.
From Höfn, the town people use as a base for Jökulsárlón, it’s about 262 km. From Djúpivogur, a fishing village further south, it’s 161 km.
If you’re flying into Egilsstaðir Airport, Vök is only about 10 minutes away by car or taxi. That’s the easiest way to do it, and it’s one reason Vök works well if you’re short on time but still want a spa day in the region.
Nearby Towns and Services
Egilsstaðir is your main base for pretty much everything: places to stay, food, gas, and supplies. It’s the commercial hub of East Iceland, so you’ll find supermarkets, gas stations, restaurants, and hotels.
Right across the bridge is Fellabær. Technically, it’s separate, but in real lif,e it feels like part of the same area. Many accommodations and the regional airport are on the Fellabær side.
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The main reason people go is simple: floating geothermal pools on a lake. No other spa in Iceland has this exact setup.
The two hexagonal floating platforms, called “Vakir,” sit directly on Lake Urriðavatn with infinity edges. When you’re in them, there’s basically no visual line between the pool and the lake. It blends together so it feels like you’re soaking right out in the middle of the water.
Vök’s geothermal water is certified as Iceland’s only drinkable geothermal water. That’s not just a catchy line. The regional utility company, HEF veitur, has documented the certification.
Thermal Contrast Experience
Vök is built around contrast bathing, meaning you switch between hot and cold to get your circulation going and get that energized feeling.
What You Won’t Find at Vök
Vök is intentionally smaller and simpler than places like Blue Lagoon. There’s no massage menu or beauty treatments. No silica mud stations. No themed zones or underwater music.
What you do get is a focused setup: good pools, solid cold therapy, a tea bar, an in-water drink bar, and a decent restaurant. The emphasis is on the lake setting and the water quality, not on stacking extra spa features.
This is my favorite hot spring out of all the ones I’ve visited. It’s much more special than places like the Blue Lagoon, the setup is more authentic, and it’s cheaper.
The In-Water Bar and Tea Bar
There are two bar options built into the experience.
The tea bar, officially called the infusion bar, is included with admission. You can help yourself to herbal teas brewed with the geothermal water and locally foraged Icelandic herbs. The tea is served at about 75°C, so it’s genuinely hot and works well when you want a break from the pools.
The in-water pool bar is where you can order alcoholic drinks, smoothies, and other drinks while you’re soaking. These cost extra, but it’s convenient. You pay using your wristband and settle everything at checkout when you leave.
Vök Baths Facilities & Pool Details
Vök isn’t huge, but everything is laid out in a way that makes sense. The main building, pools, sauna, and lake access are all close together, so you’re not walking long distances in a wet swimsuit.
The Pool Setup
Vök has three main pools according to their official information: one main pool and two floating “Vakir.”
The two floating pools are the highlight. These hexagonal platforms sit directly on Lake Urriðavatn. The water temperature is kept between 39 and 41°C. Because of the infinity edges, you’re looking straight across the lake with nothing blocking the view. The pool water visually blends into the lake.
There’s also a main onshore pool and additional hot pools that run slightly cooler, around 37 to 38°C. If the hotter floating pools feel like too much, these are a good option.
The maximum depth in the pools is 1.2 meters. That means most adults and older kids can stand comfortably.
Sauna and Cold Therapy Options
The sauna is a steam bath heated to about 50°C. It’s not a dry Finnish-style sauna. It’s more humid, which makes it feel softer but still effective. You’ll sweat, especially if you stay for 10 to 15 minutes.
For cold therapy, you’ve got three choices.
There’s a cold water spray tunnel that blasts you with 10°C water from different angles. There’s also a cold mist tunnel at the same temperature, which surrounds you in cold fog instead of direct spray.
And then there’s the lake. You can walk down the steps directly into Lake Urriðavatn. The temperature ranges from around 0°C in winter up to about 18°C in summer. It’s cold year-round. No lifeguards. It’s at your own risk.
Most people fall into a pattern. Hot pool. Sauna. Cold tunnel or lake dip. Back to hot pool. Repeat.
Changing Rooms and Lockers
There are separate changing rooms for men and women, plus some private changing areas and private showers if you prefer more privacy.
You’ll get a wristband at check-in. That wristband opens your locker and is also used to charge drinks, food, and rentals. You pay everything at the end.
If you lose your wristband, there’s a 5,000 ISK replacement fee. So keep it on.
Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and organic body lotion are provided in the showers. Hairdryers are also available.
Important Hygiene Rule
This is not optional in Iceland.
You must shower thoroughly with soap and without your swimsuit before entering the pools.
It’s a standard rule across Icelandic pools and spas. At Vök, it’s taken seriously because the water is chemical-free and continuously flowing. The cleanliness depends on everyone following the rule.
There are private shower stalls if you’re uncomfortable in open showers.
Accessibility Features
Vök states that wheelchairs can be borrowed and used to access the pools. There’s a “Disabled” admission category priced the same as student and senior tickets, 5,290 ISK.
If someone needs assistance in the changing room, a personal assistant can enter free of charge, but you need to contact Vök in advance.
The floating pools require walking across slightly uneven surfaces and stepping down into the water. If you have specific mobility needs, it’s best to contact Vök directly to confirm details.
Vök Bistro (Restaurant)
Vök Bistro is the on-site restaurant overlooking the lake. The menu focuses on small plates, soups, and light meals made with locally sourced East Iceland ingredients.
Some examples from the menu include soup of the day with bread for 2,450 ISK, seasonal salads, pasta, a BLT sandwich, chicken wings, and a kids’ menu with ham & cheese sandwiches, chicken nuggets, and fries.
Opening hours depend on the season.
From June 15 to September 30, it’s open daily from 12:00 to 21:00.
From October 1 to June 14, it’s open Friday through Sunday, from 12:00 to 21:00.
The kitchen closes at 21:00, but soup is always available after that.
Table reservations are recommended, especially in summer. You can book through their website.
Ticket Prices & Booking Information
Here’s how pricing works and what you need to know before showing up.
Standard Admission Prices (2026)
All prices are in ISK.
Adults (16+): 7,690 ISK
Students: 5,290 ISK, bring a valid student ID
Seniors (67+): 5,290 ISK
Disabled: 5,290 ISK
Children (6 to 15): 3,590 ISK
Infants (0 to 5): Free, must share locker with guardian and use provided floaties
Standard admission includes access to all pools, the sauna, cold tunnels, and one free tea from the tea bar.
Comfort and Premium Admission Options
There are upgraded ticket types that include extras.
Comfort admission includes everything in standard admission, plus one selected drink from the in-water bar. Pricing for Comfort isn’t clearly published on the English site, so you’ll see it during booking.
Premium admission includes everything in Comfort, plus a premium food platter at Vök Bistro.
Premium pricing is as follows:
Adults: 11,090 ISK
Discounted categories: 9,290 ISK
Children 6 to 16: 7,790 ISK
Infants 0 to 5: 4,800 ISK
Rentals and Purchases
If you forget something, you can rent it.
Towel rental: 1,390 ISK, or buy one for 3,990 ISK
Swimsuit rental: 1,390 ISK
Bathrobe rental: 1,990 ISK, or buy for 9,990 ISK
To save money, bring your own swimsuit and towel. Those are the only real essentials.
Annual and Multi-Visit Passes
If you’re staying in East Iceland longer or living nearby, there are multi-visit options.
Annual pass for one person: 69,900 ISK
Annual pass for two people: 89,900 ISK
3-month pass: 39,900 ISK, available seasonally starting September 16
These passes allow unlimited visits within the valid period.
Booking Requirements and Walk-In Policy
Booking online in advance is strongly recommended.
From June 1 to August 31, walk-ins are not accepted at all. If you show up without a reservation during that period, you won’t get in.
Outside of summer, walk-ins might be possible, but it depends on capacity. Vök uses timed entry slots and has a maximum capacity of 202 bathers in the bathing area at once.
Last admission is 45 minutes before closing. Everyone must leave the pools 15 minutes before closing time.
Tickets are booked through their official website, and you’ll receive confirmation by email.
Cancellation Policy
More than 72 hours before your booking: 100 percent refund.
24 to 72 hours before: 50 percent refund.
Less than 24 hours before: No refund
If you need to change your booking time or date, email them with your booking number. They’ll usually try to help if there’s availability.
Best Time to Visit Vök Baths
Vök is open year-round, but the experience changes depending on the season.
Summer (June to August)
Summer has long days and extended opening hours, 10:00 to 23:00 daily. Because of the midnight sun, you can soak late in full daylight.
The air temperature is milder, so going between hot pools and cold features feels less extreme. The landscape is green, and the lake can warm up to around 18°C.
It’s also peak tourist season. It’s busier, and since walk-ins aren’t accepted from June 1 to August 31, you must book ahead.
You might notice more algae in spring and summer. That’s normal in chemical-free water.
Winter (November to March)
Winter feels completely different.
The air is freezing, the lake partially freezes except for geothermal patches, and steam rises heavily from the pools. The lake temperature can be near 0°C.
Opening hours are shorter, usually 12:00 to 22:00 daily. In December and January, there are only about 4 to 5 hours of daylight.
But winter gives you a real chance to see the Northern Lights from the pools. It’s also generally quieter than summer.
Shoulder Seasons (April to May, September to October)
Spring and fall give you moderate weather and fewer crowds.
September and October are good for Northern Lights because nights are dark again, but roads are usually still in decent condition. These months can be a good balance between experience and crowd levels.
Quietest Times
The quietest times are usually right after opening or close to closing.
During peak season, arriving at 10:00 or after 21:00 works best.
Outside of summer, weekdays are generally quieter than weekends. The winter and shoulder seasons naturally attract fewer visitors than June, July, and August.
Practical Information
Now let’s go through the small details that actually matter once you’re there.
Can You See the Northern Lights from Vök Baths?
Yes, it’s possible. But just like anywhere else in Iceland, it depends on conditions.
You need three things: darkness, clear skies, and enough geomagnetic activity. Vök can give you real darkness from September through March, and sometimes late August or early April works too. Clear skies depend entirely on the weather, so check vedur.is before you go. Geomagnetic activity changes constantly, but there are forecasts you can monitor.
How Long Should You Spend at Vök Baths?
There’s no time limit as long as you’re inside opening hours. You just need to leave the pools 15 minutes before closing.
Most people spend between 1.5 and 3 hours, and that’s what I do when I go.
If you’re combining Vök with hiking Hengifoss or visiting Stuðlagil Canyon, plan for about 3 hours so you don’t feel rushed. If Vök is your main activity that day, you could easily stay 4 hours or more, especially if you eat there.
What to Bring
Here’s what you’ll want:
Swimsuit, or rent one for 1,390 ISK
Towel, or rent for 1,390 ISK
Flip-flops or water shoes, since surfaces can be slippery
A water bottle. The geothermal water is drinkable
A warm hat in winter. Your body stays warm in the water but your head gets cold
Hair tie if you have long hair
Waterproof phone pouch if you want photos
You don’t need to bring:
Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, or lotion. They’re provided
Hairdryer
Locker lock. The wristband handles that
Floaties for infants. They’re provided and required
Important Rules and Etiquette
The shower rule is mandatory. You must shower thoroughly with soap and without your swimsuit before entering the pools. This is standard in Iceland and taken seriously, especially since Vök uses chemical-free water.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. You must be 16 or older to enter alone.
You can swim in Lake Urriðavatn at your own risk. There are steps into the lake, but no lifeguards.
No diving in any pool.
No toys or flotation devices except the floaties provided for infants aged 0 to 5.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed. You can bring a water bottle, but no snacks or picnic items.
Phones are allowed in the pool area at your own risk. Photography is strictly forbidden in changing rooms. Drones are not allowed during opening hours.
You’re responsible for your wristband. Losing it costs 5,000 ISK. All purchases are charged to it and paid when you leave.
And just a practical note: surfaces can get slippery, especially in winter. Move carefully.
Health and Safety Considerations
Water temperatures range from around 5°C in the cold features and lake to 41°C in the hottest pools. Most hot pools sit between 37 and 41°C.
If you’re pregnant, Vök suggests paying attention to how you feel and staying hydrated. Water temperatures between 37 and 42°C are generally considered safe for short periods, but if you have concerns, talk to your doctor.
If you can’t swim, let staff know at check-in. The pools are shallow, max depth 1.2 meters, but it’s good information for them to have.
And drink water. You sweat even when you don’t notice it in hot water.
Is Vök Baths Worth It?
If you’re already in East Iceland or driving the Ring Road, Vök fits naturally. It’s just off Route 1 and only five minutes from Egilsstaðir.
If you prefer something smaller and less busy than Blue Lagoon, Vök feels more relaxed and more connected to the surrounding landscape.
If you’re interested in Icelandic bathing culture, soaking in geothermal water while looking out over a lake and mountains feels very true to that tradition.
Winter visitors who are hoping for Northern Lights will also appreciate the dark-sky location and the experience of soaking in hot water under a cold sky.
Most people see Vök as worth it if they’re in the area. It’s usually not something people travel across Iceland just for, but as part of an East Iceland itinerary, it fits very well.
Vök Baths vs Other Iceland Spas
Iceland has a lot of geothermal spa options. Here’s how Vök compares to some of the main ones.
Vök Baths vs Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon is near Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport.
Water: Blue Lagoon uses geothermal seawater with the famous milky blue silica look. Vök uses clear freshwater geothermal water that’s certified drinkable.
Size: Blue Lagoon hosts thousands of visitors daily. Vök has a maximum capacity of 202 bathers, so it feels smaller.
Facilities: Blue Lagoon offers spa treatments, silica mud masks, multiple bars, and larger facilities. Vök offers pools, one sauna, cold tunnels, two bars, and a restaurant. More compact.
Price: Blue Lagoon starts around 10,500 ISK and can go over 13,500 ISK during peak times. Vök standard admission is 7,690 ISK year-round.
Location: The Blue Lagoon is 20 minutes from the airport. Vök is in East Iceland, about 8 hours from Reykjavík but 5 minutes from Egilsstaðir.
If you want the famous, high-profile spa near Reykjavík, Blue Lagoon makes sense. If you’re in East Iceland and want something quieter with very pure water, Vök is a strong option.
Water: Mývatn’s water can have a noticeable sulfur smell. Vök’s water is odorless and certified drinkable.
Setting: Mývatn sits among lava fields and geothermal steam. Vök sits directly on a lake with mountain views.
Price: Mývatn starts at about 7,900 ISK, very similar to Vök’s 7,690 ISK.
Status: Mývatn closed for major renovations in late 2025, with new facilities expected in spring 2026. Always check the current status before planning.
If you’re on the northern Ring Road, Mývatn fits naturally. If you’re exploring East Iceland, Vök is easier to include.
Water: Sky Lagoon combines geothermal water with Atlantic seawater. Vök uses pure freshwater geothermal water.
Setting: Sky Lagoon overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Vök overlooks Lake Urriðavatn.
Price: Sky Lagoon is generally more expensive. Vök sits in the mid-range.
Sky Lagoon is convenient if you’re staying near Reykjavík and want ocean views. Vök works better if you’re in East Iceland and prefer freshwater and lake scenery.
If you want a simple, affordable hot spring near the Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon is great. If you’re in East Iceland and want more facilities and floating pools, Vök fits better.
Facilities: Fontana has multiple geothermal pools, steam rooms, and lake access. Vök adds floating pools and cold tunnels.
Price: Fontana is around 4,990 ISK, cheaper than Vök.
Unique feature: Fontana bakes bread in geothermal sand and offers that experience. Vök includes herbal tea but doesn’t have bread baking.
Fontana fits well into a Golden Circle route. Vök fits into an East Iceland route with floating pools as its main feature.
Things to Do Near Vök Baths
One of the best parts about Vök is that you’re not driving hours into nowhere just for the spa. It’s right in the middle of a bunch of really good East Iceland spots, so it’s easy to pair with other plans.
Stuðlagil Canyon
Stuðlagil is about 50 km west of Vök. It’s one of those places that looks almost edited in photos, but it really is that striking.
The canyon walls are made of tall basalt columns, and there’s a bright turquoise glacial river running through the middle. The colors stand out most on cloudy days when the light is softer and more even.
There are viewpoints on both sides of the river. The east side is the easier one, with parking close to the viewpoint. A lot of people go to Stuðlagil first and then head to Vök afterward to warm up and relax.
Hengifoss Waterfall
Hengifoss is around 30 km south of Vök and is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland at 128 meters.
The hike takes about 45 minutes each way and goes steadily uphill. It’s not technical, just a consistent climb. On the way up, you’ll pass Litlanesfoss, a smaller waterfall framed by clean hexagonal basalt columns.
What really stands out at Hengifoss is the cliff behind it. You can clearly see red and black layers in the rock from old volcanic eruptions. It’s very distinct and easy to recognize in person.
It works well as a half-day hike before or after your spa visit.
Hallormsstaðaskógur National Forest
Iceland isn’t known for forests, so Hallormsstaðaskógur feels different right away. It’s the largest forest in the country and sits about 25 km south of Vök along the Ring Road.
It’s mostly a reforestation area, with native birch and imported trees like pine and larch. There are several walking trails, from short and easy loops to longer forest hikes.
If you want a quieter walk and a break from wide-open volcanic landscapes, this is a nice change.
Seyðisfjörður
Seyðisfjörður is about 25 km east of Egilsstaðir. You get there by driving Route 93 over a mountain pass.
The town is known for its colorful wooden houses and the rainbow-painted street leading up to a blue church. The drive over the pass is beautiful, with waterfalls along the road. In winter, though, it can be a tougher drive depending on conditions.
Seyðisfjörður has small galleries, cafes, and a strong arts scene. It’s also where the Smyril Line ferry from Europe docks.
Lake Lagarfljót
Lake Urriðavatn connects to the larger Lake Lagarfljót.
There’s local folklore about a serpent-like creature called Lagarfljótsormurinn living in the lake. It’s Iceland’s version of a lake monster story.
If you drive along Route 931 on the east side of the lake, you’ll get good views and pass through Hallormsstaðaskógur at the same time.
Borgarfjörður Eystri
If you’re visiting between May and August, Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins.
It’s about 55 minutes northeast of Egilsstaðir via Route 94. The drive feels more remote, but in summer, you can walk out to platforms near the cliffs and see puffins nesting surprisingly close.
The area also has good hiking trails and colorful mountains if you want to spend more time there.
Rjúkandi and Fardaga Waterfalls
These are smaller waterfalls closer to Vök and easy to stop at while driving.
Rjúkandi is especially simple to access and doesn’t require much walking, which makes it a quick and easy add-on.
East Iceland Heritage Museum
This museum is in Egilsstaðir and focuses on settlement history, farming life, and fishing traditions in East Iceland.
If you want a better sense of how people have actually lived here, not just what the landscape looks like, it’s worth an hour.
Conclusion
Vök Baths stands out for one clear reason. Floating geothermal pools sitting directly on a natural lake, with certified drinkable geothermal water.
If you’re exploring East Iceland or driving the Ring Road, it’s an easy stop just minutes from Egilsstaðir. It works well after a hike or a day of sightseeing, or as your main plan for a relaxed afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vök Baths
Yes. From June 1 to August 31, walk-ins are not accepted at all. Even outside of summer, capacity is capped at 202 bathers, so booking ahead is the safest option.
Yes. Children under 16 must be with an adult. Infants from 0 to 5 enter free but must use the provided floaties and share a locker with a guardian.
Yes. There are steps into the lake and guests can bathe at their own risk. The water ranges from around 0 to 18°C depending on the season.
The floating pools are kept between 39 and 41°C. The onshore pools are slightly cooler at 37 to 38°C. The sauna runs at about 50°C.
It’s generally less crowded than the big-name spas. Maximum capacity is 202 bathers. Early mornings and late evenings tend to be quieter. Winter and shoulder seasons are usually calmer than peak summer.
Yes. Vök is open year-round. Winter means snow around the lake, heavy steam rising from the pools, and the possibility of seeing Northern Lights. Always check road conditions before driving in winter.
Yes, phones and cameras are allowed in the bathing areas at your own risk. Photography is strictly forbidden in changing rooms. Vök is not responsible for water damage or lost devices.
About the author
Aron Freyr
Born and raised in Iceland, Aron Freyr has spent all 28 years of his life exploring the country and getting to know its landscapes, regions, and ever changing conditions. From long summer road trips to winter journeys through remote areas, he has traveled across Iceland more times than he can count. As part of the Go Car Rental Iceland team, Aron turns this firsthand experience into trustworthy, practical guidance that helps visitors navigate Iceland with confidence. His deep local insight makes him one of the most reliable voices on Icelandic travel today. He claims this expertise also includes knowing exactly which gas stations make the best hot dogs.
