Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is the country’s best-known hot spring. But this bubbling retreat located only 50 minutes from Reykjavik has a rich history, seals that live there, and stunning views of fjords.
Enjoy the cinematic landscapes and whale watching. soaking in geothermal hot springs The newest addition to the bestselling is the best things you can do while in Iceland—and there’s one hot spring where you can do all three.
Ring Road is located 50 minutes north of Reykjavik. Hvammsvík Hot Springs sits on a hilly peninsula that juts out into the waters of the picturesque Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord). This 1,200-acre estate is home to this luxurious villa. remote nature resort (which opened in 2022 with a modernist bathhouse and beachfront baths) may seem like the only hint of human habitation around—but the site has deep roots in Icelandic history. First settled by Vikings in 11th century and used as an Allied Naval Base (codenamed Falcon Beach) during World War II.
Iceland’s breathtaking scenery is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing soak in warm water.
Eight rock-rimmed hot springs are located right on the shore of the fjord, with temperatures ranging from 95 degrees Fahrenheit up to 104 degrees. The lower pools are cooled by the lapping water. At high tide some become submerged.
While you’re relaxing, you can watch the waves for curious seals—they’re so common, the staff call them the “supervisors” and “quality managers.” You may even be lucky enough to see whales. Whale Fjord, despite its name, is not known for whale-watching. It was once the site of an old whaling station. The staff says whales have been seen in the area. Humpbacks are finally returning after a 25 year absence.
For night sky enthusiasts, the hot springs are from enough from Reykjavík to have only low levels of light pollution, and the night skies are clear enough for the northern lights in winter.
The art-filled bathhouse features showers, changing rooms (both public and private), geothermal saunas, a swim up bar that serves drinks such as cocktails and wellness shots made from seaweed, and a café for breakfast and lunch. Icelandic eats Enjoy seafood stew or open-faced sourdough sandwichs. The hotel offers activities such as ocean swim sessions and stand up paddle boarding as well Wim Hof breathing or cold endurance classes. You can compete in the Atlas Challenge, which involves lifting stones. Prizes include complimentary drinks and free admission for an entire year.
If you don’t want to make the drive back to Reykjavik, a number of historic farmhouses and cabins—tastefully updated to preserve their heritage while having modern creature comforts—provide places to rest your head overnight. Hilltop house is perched high on an elevated rise, with panoramic views of the surrounding area from the hot spring in the private living room and the glass-walled dining room. It has not only the best view, but the coolest story. The cabin was built originally by the British Navy and is believed to be the location of secret Winston Churchill meetings.
Weather permitting (this is Iceland, after all), Hvammsvík Hot Springs is open daily throughout the year. Admission to Hvammsvik Hot Springs starts at $65 USD. This includes unlimited hot water and sauna access. To reach Hvammsvík, you’ll either need a rental car or you can book transfers with a tour operator like Reykjavik Excursions.
