Hvammsvik Hot Springs | Iceland’s tranquil geothermal oasis
Set on the shores of Hvalfjordur amidst Iceland’s dramatic natural beauty, the Hvammsvik hot springs are a serene geothermal wellness retreat. Its eight natural hot springs of varying temperatures offer an ideal spot to rejuvenate.
Why visit Hvammsvik Hot Springs?
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A unique experience in every season
Hvammsvik’s hot springs stay warm year-round thanks to the natural geothermal source 1,400 meters underground. Summer offers long, relaxing days by the fjord, while spring and autumn are ideal for hiking. In winter, soak in the hot pools surrounded by snowy mountains. You might even spot the northern lights!
Wellness for body and skin
The geothermal pools at Hvammsvik provide therapeutic benefits for both body and skin. Their soothing warmth relieves muscle tension, while the mineral-rich waters help improve skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It’s the perfect natural therapy!
An unspoiled, natural setting
Constructed on the site of a WWII barracks and painted black, the facility has been thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly into Hvalfjordur’s wild natural landscape. Rocks from the beach have been used to create the geothermal pools, the paths are paved with local stone, and the handrails are made of wood from the 1,200-acre estate. Every aspect has been designed to stay as close to nature as possible.
Accessible yet remote
Despite being located just 45 minutes from Reykjavik, Hvalfjordur is off the beaten path and far less crowded than Iceland’s more popular thermal springs. With its craggy mountains, black sand beaches, and raw natural beauty, it offers a tranquil getaway. At the same time, you can easily reach other attractions like Glymur Falls, Thingvellir, and the Golden Circle from here, making it the perfect addition to a day trip itinerary.
Highlights of Hvammsvik Hot Springs, Iceland
Geothermal pools
Hvammsvik’s hot springs, tidal pool, and ocean plunge pool each offer a different way to relax and connect with nature. The geothermal pools range from 35° to 40°C, while the tidal pool, a mix of ocean and geothermal water, heats and cools with the tide. With temperatures between 4° and 10°C, the plunge pool offers a bracing contrast and is perfect for revitalizing the senses.
Steam room
This offers a perfect way to unwind after a refreshing dip in the ocean. The dense, mineral-rich steam helps clear your respiratory system and rejuvenate your skin, while the soothing heat relaxes your muscles. Its wooden exteriors and rustic design blend harmoniously with the surrounding natural landscape.
Swim-up bar
If you fancy a drink without leaving the comfort of the warm water, the swim-up bar is right next to the main lounge pool. It offers a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Sip on a refreshing beer, champagne, or juice as you take in the unmatched views of Hvalfjordur.
Outdoor activities
You can enjoy watersports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming in Hvalfjordur, and the surrounding area is perfect for long hikes. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you can try fishing or berry picking. The facility even offers Wim Hof Method courses to withstand cold water exposure.
Nordic dishes
Stormur Bistro, Hvammsvik’s on-site restaurant, is known for its delicious, Nordic-inspired dishes prepared with fresh Icelandic ingredients. Their seafood soup is particularly popular, offering a flavorful taste of the fresh catch from nearby waters. You can also try the refreshing algae and ginger shot, a great way to boost your energy after a relaxing soak in the thermal pools.
Arctic wildlife
The area surrounding Hvalfjordur is home to a variety of seabirds, including eider ducks, puffins, and terns. Seals are often seen playing in the waters of the fjord, and you might even catch sight of the rare Arctic fox!
Viking history
Hvammsvik has a fascinating connection to Iceland’s Viking past — the area around Hvalfjordur was first discovered by Norse settlers 1,000 years ago. More recently, during World War II, around 40,000 military personnel were stationed at a British and American naval base here. The current facilities have incorporated this history and are built on the site of WWII barracks.
Plan your visit to Hvammsvik Hot Springs, Iceland
Timings:
Open: Daily from 10:30am to 8:30pm
Last entry: 7pm
Best time to visit:
Best time of the day: Visit on a weekday morning close to the opening time or in the evening for a crowd-free experience. If you visit late afternoon, you’ll catch the spectacular sunset over the fjord.
Best time of the year: Hvammsvik Hot Springs is open throughout the year. Summers bring long daylight hours and vibrant green surroundings, while winters offer the chance to spot the northern lights as you soak in the warm waters.
By bus: You can reach Hvammsvik by bus with return transfers from Reykjavik’s BSI bus terminal twice daily.
Nearest stop: Hvammsvik Hot Springs
By car: Hvammsvik Hot Springs is 55 km from Reykjavik (a 45–50 minute drive) and 96 km from Keflavík International Airport (a 1 hour, 20 minute drive).
Nearest parking: Hvammsvik Hot Springs car park (only for visitors with prior reservations).
Secure indoor and outdoor lockers
Changing rooms
Showers
Premium bath products in the showers
Washrooms
Towel, swimwear, and wading shoes rental
On-site restaurant
Poolside bar
Electronic wristband
Parking
Children aged 10 years and under are not permitted at Hvammsvik hot springs. Children between 11 and 18 years old must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
Icelandic bathing traditions require you to shower without a swimsuit before entering the pools.
You must wear a swimsuit in the pools.
You cannot dive in the pools.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the facility.
Photography and video shooting for commercial purposes are not permitted. You can take pictures and videos for personal use, but be mindful of other guests’ privacy.
Swimsuits, towels, and flip-flops/wading shoes are available for rent, but it’s more economical to carry your own.
Wearing flip-flops or wading shoes is highly recommended to avoid slipping and hurting yourself on the rocks.
The hot springs are a cashless facility, so carry your credit cards.
Parking is reserved for guests with prior bookings.
If you head to the fjord for a cold water plunge, go with another guest as it’s safer with a buddy.
While wading in the tidal and ocean plunge pools, look out for seals playing in the ocean – you’ll spot them when they pop their heads out of the water.
Hvammsvik Nature Resort: The hot spring’s on-site accommodation offers four private houses that can accommodate between 4 and 9 guests. They are equipped with modern amenities, private bathrooms and kitchens, and stunning views of the surrounding fjord.
A world-renowned geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon features milky-blue waters rich in minerals. Known for its healing properties, you can relax in warm waters while enjoying stunning volcanic surroundings.
A popular sightseeing route, the Golden Circle covers iconic sites like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. It offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s natural beauty and geological wonders.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Thingvellir is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This is also where the Icelandic parliament was founded, making it one of Iceland’s most historically significant sites.
Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, Glymur cascades dramatically down a canyon. Accessible via a challenging hike, you are rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding landscape and lush greenery.
Frequently asked questions about Hvammsvik Hot Springs tickets
It’s best to book your Hvammsvik hot springs tickets online in advance, particularly if you’re visiting during the peak season. While walk-ins are possible, availability is limited, and you may not be able to enter on your preferred date or time without a prior reservation.
With a Hvammsvik ticket, you can enjoy round-trip bus transfers from Reykjavik, access to eight hot springs and geothermal pools, steam room, private changing rooms, lockers, showers, the on-site restaurant, and activities like paddle boarding, open-ocean swimming, and an introductory Wim Hof course.
Once you enter, there is no strict time limit on how you can stay, allowing you to relax at your own pace. Guests typically spend 3-4 hours enjoying the geothermal pools, the facilities, the food, and the stunning views of Hvalfjordur.
Carry your swimsuit, a towel, and flip-flops or wading shoes. These are also available for rent at the facility. Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning surrounding landscape.
The Hvammsvik hot springs are naturally heated by geothermal energy from the estate’s subterranean heat source. The pools are formed by shaping natural rock formations around the springs, creating an authentic Icelandic bathing experience.
The Hvammsvik facility, including the restaurant, is accessible by wheelchair. However, the geothermal pools and the beach area are not wheelchair navigable due to the natural terrain and layout. The paths between the facility and the pools tend to be wet and slippery, making them challenging to navigate for guests with mobility issues.
The Hvammsvik hot springs are located about 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik, approximately a 45-minute drive north of the city. The drive is along Route 1 (Ring Road) and Route 47, offering spectacular coastal and mountain views along the way.
Enjoy hot springs, paddleboarding, and ocean swims, just a bus ride away from Reykjavik at Hvammsvík Hot Springs.
Everything you get: Entry to Hvammsvík Hot Springs, offering eight geothermal pools with stunning coastal views, plus full access to lockers and showers.
Why choose this: Hvammsvík isn’t just a spa; it’s a wellness experience with geothermal baths, paddleboarding, and cold-ocean swims, showcasing the best of the Icelandic wilderness.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, towels and wading shoes, and a drink of your choice for a more comfortable and convenient experience.
Inclusions
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Entry to Hvammsik Hot Springs
Round-trip bus transfers from Reykjavik (as per option selected)
Shampoo, conditioner and body wash (as per option selected)
Drinks in the hot springs (as per option selected)
Towel (as per option selected)
Wading shoes (as per option selected)
One drink of your choice (as per option selected)
Access to:
All hot springs and geothermal steam rooms (as per option selected)
Classic changing facilities (as per option selected)
Private lockers & changing booth (as per option selected)
Private and open showers (as per option selected)
Stormur Bistro (as per option selected)
Exclusions
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Food and drinks
Gratuities/tips
Souvenir photos
What to bring
Please carry your booking confirmation and a valid ID for check-in.
Swimwear is mandatory for access to the pools, so be sure to bring your own.
What's not allowed
Oversized luggage and large bags are not allowed on the premises.
Accessibility
Hvammsvík Hot Springs is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, with adapted facilities available onsite.
Guests with back conditions or heart-related concerns should refrain from entering the pools.
Additional information
Departures take place from the BSÍ Bus Terminal in central Reykjavík. The journey to Hvammsvík takes approximately one hour.
If you’ve selected hotel pick-up, remember to choose your preferred location during booking.
Changing rooms are gender-neutral.
Entry is limited to guests aged 10 and above. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
For the 10:30am departure, the return transfer is at 2pm. For the 5pm departure, return is scheduled for 8:30pm.
Towels and water shoes are not included but can be rented onsite.
The pools vary in temperature and depth.
Some areas of the property may be rocky or uneven underfoot.
The experience operates year-round and runs in most weather conditions.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Bath
Hvammsvik Hot Spring Admission Tickets with Optional Transfers from Reykjavik
Enjoy hot springs, paddleboarding, and ocean swims, just a bus ride away from Reykjavik at Hvammsvík Hot Springs.
Everything you get: Entry to Hvammsvík Hot Springs, offering eight geothermal pools with stunning coastal views, plus full access to lockers and showers.
Why choose this: Hvammsvík isn’t just a spa; it’s a wellness experience with geothermal baths, paddleboarding, and cold-ocean swims, showcasing the best of the Icelandic wilderness.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, towels and wading shoes, and a drink of your choice for a more comfortable and convenient experience.
