What’s Up With Bathing Lagoons in Iceland?

A Guide to Iceland’s Geothermal Culture, Hot Springs & Luxury Lagoons

In Iceland, we often joke that two things are cheap (sorry… beer is not one of them):
 hot water and electricity.

Thanks to abundant geothermal heat and clean hydroelectric power, Iceland enjoys one of the highest standards of living in the world — almost every home is heated with 100% renewable geothermal energy. That same natural hot water also fuels one of our biggest cultural traditions: Swimming pools and hot-tubs.

Public swimming pools, hot tubs, steam baths, and now world-famous luxury lagoons are a cornerstone of daily Icelandic life. They’re where we relax, socialize, catch up on politics, and solve the world’s problems — a bit like the local pub for the English or Irish… just without the beer (well, the bathing lagoons will actually sell beer and other spirits).

Why Are Bathing Lagoons So Popular in Iceland?

Bathing culture in Iceland is nothing new — public pools and hot tubs have been part of our lives for decades. But the modern “bathing lagoon” experience began with one place:

The Blue Lagoon.

Its success sparked a nationwide wave of innovative geothermal spas: each one unique, each one built on the same idea — relax in naturally heated water while soaking up scenery you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.

Featured Bathing Lagoons in Iceland

1. The Blue Lagoon — The Original Icon

The Blue Lagoon is the first and most famous of all Icelandic bathing lagoons. Its striking blue silica water isn’t dyed — it’s naturally colored by geothermal minerals and silica clay from a nearby geothermal power plant.

A fun fact: the lagoon began as a byproduct from the powerplant where locals secretly swam. When a doctor discovered the water’s benefits for psoriasis, the Blue Lagoon skincare brand was born, and the lagoon evolved into one of the most recognized geothermal spas in the world.

Is the Blue Lagoon worth visiting?

Yes — absolutely.
 Despite its popularity, the Blue Lagoon carefully controls visitor numbers, making the experience pleasant even in peak season. And while many lagoons now exist, nothing fully replaces the original.

2. Mývatn Nature Baths – “The Blue Lagoon of the North”

Located in North Iceland, these geothermal baths offer milky, mineral-rich water with naturally high sulfur content. The soft grey-blue color is stunning — and so is the atmosphere.

If you’re staying overnight in the Mývatn area, this is the perfect way to end your day: peaceful, scenic, and wonderfully warm.

3. Laugarás Lagoon — The New Golden Circle Star

Laugarás Lagoon is the newest addition to Iceland’s lagoon landscape — and it sits right inside the famous Golden Circle, making it incredibly convenient for visitors.

It offers a more elevated experience than the traditional “Secret Lagoon” or the small Fontana Spa. The design is modern, the setting is beautiful, and there’s a strong emphasis on high-quality dining, which we’re eager to try.

4. Kerlingarfjöll — Highlands Geothermal Relaxation

Kerlingarfjöll is one of Iceland’s most visually dramatic mountain ranges, famous for steaming valleys, red rhyolite peaks, and geothermal vents.

The Highland Center hotel features a small spa area with a hot tub/lagoon and a sauna overlooking the wilderness.
 Honest note: the lagoon can sometimes struggle to stay hot enough — but the panoramic sauna more than makes up for it.

This isn’t a lagoon you visit instead of others — it’s part of a bigger experience that includes:

  • One of Iceland’s coolest hotels

  • Outstanding cuisine

  • A thrilling Super Jeep journey into the highlands

5. Vök Baths — Bathing in a Lake

Located in East Iceland, Vök Baths is one of the most unique spas in the country.

Why?
Because parts of the lagoon float directly on Lake Urriðavatn, giving you the option to cool off with a refreshing dip — if you dare. The lake is also known for Arctic char, so… keep those toes wiggling.

Other Notable Lagoons in Iceland

Hvammsvík Hot Springs

A coastal bathing experience where the tide can flow directly into one of the pools — one moment warm geothermal water, the next moment cold seawater swirling around you.

Sky Lagoon (Reykjavík)

Close to downtown and famous for its 7-step ritual, Sky Lagoon blends Icelandic bathing culture with a high-end spa experience.

Forest Lagoon (Akureyri)

Fed by hot water accidentally discovered while drilling a nearby tunnel, this beautifully designed lagoon feels like soaking in a forest sanctuary.