Do you like the idea of spoiling yourself with pleasure whilst experiencing some of Iceland’s most attractive sights? Iceland’s steamy spas and thermal pools offer a relaxing, revitalizing, invigorating and exciting experience! And as a traditional part of Icelandic culture the pools are a great way to meet and relax with the locals.

Here are five of the top thermal spa and pool destinations in Iceland.

1. The Blue Lagoon Spa

The Blue Lagoon is possibly Iceland’s most popular single tourist attraction. And yes, the water really is blue, The silica mud and blue-green algae content of the water are said to have health promoting effects. In fact, Blue Lagoon skin care products are sold all over the world. Open all year round, the spa has every facility you could wish for to make your visit enjoyable. Reachable in less than an hour by car or excursion coach from Reykjavik. The spa is located on a lava field close to the fishing village of Grindavik.

2. Landmannalaugar Hot Springs

Set in the beautiful volcanic southern highlands of Iceland, the Landamannalaugar area is enclosed by a rainbow of colorful mountains. This natural thermal pool is located next to a mountain hut and facilities are spartan. However, the hot, mineral rich waters are no less enjoyable or invigorating for that! Road access is only possible in summer, when there is a daily bus service from Reykjavik.

3. Myvatn Nature Baths

The Lake Myvatn nature reserve in the volcanic north of Iceland is a paradise for water birds living on the lake, river and surrounding wetlands. In this picturesque setting, the Myvatn Nature Baths blends in well with the natural environment. The outstanding feature here is the geothermal lagoon with it’s relaxing, soothing, mineral rich waters. The center features modern, comfortable facilities and a cafeteria. Open all year round.

4. Nautholsvik Thermal Beach

Iceland is not known for it’s beach life, the sand being black and the water somewhat icy. However, on the Reykjavik coastline at Nautholsvik, an artificial thermal beach has been created complete with golden sand, a thermal pool and hot tubs. Naturally hot geothermal water flows into the ocean here, so even taking a dip in the Arctic waves can be fun. Facilities and refreshments are also available (open in
summer only).

5. Spa City Reykjavik

The city of Reykjavik boasts several geothermal swimming pools and health spas. These are appreciated and frequented as much by locals as by tourists. Outdoor thermal swimming pools include those at Breidholts, Vesturbaejar and Grafarvogs. They are open the whole year and all feature hot tubs and steam baths. Guests at the wellness spas of Planet Reykjavik Day Spa, the Saga Heilsa and Spa and also the Nordica Hotel can expect to be thoroughly pampered. The large and opulent Laugar Spa Resort combines both pool and wellness facilities for the whole family.