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Hot Springs in Iceland

We have taken together 5 great hot springs that we recommend diving in when in Iceland and why there are so many of them in Iceland.

There are several natural hot springs in Iceland. Iceland is located on the meeting place of two divergent tectonic plates and the rig is called the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Volcanic activity is common along tectonic rifts and due to that, the water is often heated underground. Hot springs are caused by this geothermal activity.

There are some benefits to soaking in the hot springs. They are full of mineral-rich water that has several benefits to the body. It is for example a good treatment for Eczema, which improves circulation as the water also has calcium and sodium bicarbonate that can lower blood pressure and relieves muscle pains.

Seljavallalaug.northernLightsCarRental

 Seljavallalaug

This is Iceland's oldest man-made pool and it is heated by a natural hot spring from the near volcano Eyjafjallajökull.

You might be startled due to the colour of the water. The water is green due to algae as it is only cleaned once every summer. But you do not have to worry as it is perfectly fine to dive.

The pool has to change facilities but they are very basic.

Landmannalaugar.NorthernLightsCarRental

 Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar (Directly translates to „the people´s pools“) has a lot of geothermal energy heated hot springs in the southern highlands. The road to Landmannalaugar is rough and you do need to have a 4x4 vehicle to get there or take a bus tour.

Visitors flock to this spectacular place due to the amazing scenery, walking trails and of course these hot springs.

There are changing facilities for those who want to dive and also outdoor showers for the best natural experience.

 The secret lagoon

This is the oldest pool in Iceland (Not man-made) and was opened in 1891 and used until 1937. Then it was abandoned for more than 60 years but has been renovated somewhat in recent years.

If you plan on going to the golden circle, you will be happy to hear that it is only a small detour from that route and they offer great facilities and showers.

Reykjadalur.NorthernLightsCarRental

 Reykjadalur Geothermal river

A short 3-kilometre hike from Hveragerði will bring you to Reykjadalur („smoky valley“) and the geothermal river. There are no changing facilities so be prepared to change out in the open. It is well worth the hike and you can make the trip easier if you are staying in Reykjavík as Hveragerði is only a 40-minute drive away.

Viti.NorthernLightsCarRental

 Víti Geothermal Lake

If you plan on taking a drive to Askja Caldera in the highlands, you will want to take a dip in Víti (Translation „Hell“). You have to have a 4x4 vehicle to make the trip as you need to drive F-roads, but it is well worth it. The water in Víti is approximately 25°celsius and is a popular location for travellers. Víti as well as the Askja region was formed at the end of the last ice age as a magma chamber collapsed beneath the Dyngjufjöll mountains. When falling upon itself the region became a 50 square kilometre caldera within the highlands.

There are no changing facilities, but well worth the drive!

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