Soak the Circle
The comparison

Golden Circle lagoons compared

Three geothermal lagoons sit within about half an hour of Geysir. They suit very different moods, so pick by the kind of evening you want, not by distance.

Want to splurge on a long, slow evening?Laugarás Lagoon Want something simple, warm and historic?Secret Lagoon Want a soak mid-route, plus saunas and a lake?Laugarvatn Fontana
LagoonFeelHighlightsTo GeysirFoodBook ahead?
Laugarás Lagoon Laugarás, by the Hvítá river Newest
Modern and polished		 Pools on several levels, a waterfall feature, a basalt grotto, saunas with river views, cold plunge, swim-up bars ~25 min Ylja restaurant on site Yes, timed slots
Secret Lagoon Flúðir Rustic
Low-key, natural		 Iceland's oldest swimming pool, from 1891; hot springs bubbling around the edge; a small geyser beside the walkway ~30 min Light refreshments Recommended in high season
Laugarvatn Fontana Laugarvatn Spa
Calm, sauna culture		 Natural steam baths built over a hot spring, pools, and direct access to the lake for a cold dip ~25 min Café on site Recommended

Drive times are approximate in good conditions. Opening hours and prices change by season, so check the official site before you go.

Best for a treat

Laugarás Lagoon

Just off Route 30, above the Hvítá river valley. About 1.5 hours from Reykjavík.

  • Upper, lower and forest pools, plus a waterfall feature and a grotto of basalt columns
  • Two swim-up bars and dry saunas looking over the river
  • Ylja restaurant on site, so you can stay for dinner
Hours
10:00–21:00, last entry 19:30
Nearby
Friðheimar greenhouse, about 8 min
Tickets and times
Best for atmosphere

Secret Lagoon

In the village of Flúðir, a short drive from Laugarás.

  • A natural pool in use since 1891
  • Steaming hot springs and a small geyser right beside the pool
  • Fewer frills than the newer spas, which is the appeal
Water
~38–40 °C
Pairs with
Gullfoss and Geysir in the same afternoon
Tickets and times
Best mid-route stop

Laugarvatn Fontana

On the shore of Lake Laugarvatn, between Þingvellir and Geysir.

  • Steam rooms sitting directly over a natural hot spring
  • Pools, plus a walk into the cold lake for contrast
  • Fits neatly at lunchtime, halfway round the circle
Pairs with
Þingvellir in the morning
Extra
Ask about rye bread baked in the hot ground
Tickets and times
Before you go

Lagoon etiquette in Iceland

Every geothermal pool in Iceland expects you to shower without a swimsuit before you get in. It's a hygiene rule, not a suggestion, and staff will remind you.

  • Bring a swimsuit and a towel, or check if towels are included in your ticket.
  • Keep your hair out of the water or use conditioner, as minerals can leave it stiff.
  • Drink water. Long soaks in hot water dehydrate you faster than you'd think.
  • In winter, book a slot after dark: you might see the northern lights from the water.

See how to fit a lagoon into a one-day Golden Circle →