Visiting the hot springs in Iceland is already an incredible experience because of the warm waters’ volcanic origins. But visiting Hvammsvik Hot Springs is one of the most immersive experiences with the magnificent Icelandic nature you can get here on the island.
So, if you’re looking for some peace and tranquillity, have always wanted to tick soaking in a hot spring in Iceland off your bucket list, and would like to get as close to nature as possible, Hvammsvik is the hot spring for you. Here’s what you need to know to plan and prep for your trip:
An Overview of Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Hvammsvik officially opened its doors in 2023, making it one of the babies of the geothermal family here in Iceland. And, as it goes with most new additions to the family, this one has made quite an impression and is getting a lot of attention due to its new, sleek, and modern facilities, and its aim of staying as authentic as possible and acting as an extension of its natural surroundings rather than an intrusion.
It’s also important to note that while we talk about the development of the Hvammsvik Hot Springs, we merely refer to the newly built facilities and the amenities. The Hvammsvik Natural Hot Springs are still as natural as can be and still the same as they’ve been since people started using them 1000 years ago (but more on this a bit later). The Hvammsvik Hot Springs consists of 8 rocky “pools” lining the Atlantic Ocean coastline.
Here, the geothermal water mingles with the cold seawater to create hot spring experiences of various temperatures (but expect temperatures to go up to about 40 degrees Celsius/104 degrees Fahrenheit). For your convenience, there is also a swim-up bar, which means the relaxation doesn’t need to end whenever you get thirsty. There is also a steam room one can use on-site as well as all the basics, such as changing rooms, bathrooms, and showers.
Hvammsvik also boasts one of the biggest cold pools you’ll ever find; the Atlantic Ocean. Just stepping out a few steps of one of the hot spring “pools” will have you taking a proper cold plunge. Having the cold ocean so intertwined with the hot springs also has other benefits. Visitors can now take part in all sorts of other activities such as introductory sessions to the Wim Hof method and paddle boarding.
If you would like to extend your Hvammsvik experience or just don’t feel like driving immediately after your relaxing soak, you can book one of the on-site accommodation options.
The History of Hvammsvik
As we already mentioned, the Hvammsvik Hot Springs have been used since over 1000 years ago. That is if we are to believe the Landnama (the Icelandic Book of Settlers). There it mentions how the Vikings discovered the 1200 acres of land, and how the area has been used since the 11th century. But it’s not just in Landnama where Hvammsvik is prominently featured.
The area also played a major role during World War II. It became the naval headquarters of the allied forces and at a certain point, you could find more than 200 ships moored in the fjord and roughly 40 000 soldiers calling Hvammsvik home (quite a staggering number when taking the size of Hvammsvik into account). Hvammsvik was also given the codenames Falcon Beach and Falcon Crest in an attempt to hide the naval headquarters’ real location.
Location and Accessibility
Below is information regarding where to find the Hvammsvik Hot Springs and how to get there:
Where is the Hvammsvik Hot Springs in Iceland?
The Hvammsvik Hot Springs is located in the middle of the Hvalfjördur Fjord in Mosfellsbær in the southwestern part of Iceland. It is roughly 56 kilometers (about a 45-minute drive) from Reykjavik, making it a possibility as a day outing from the capital. But since the hot springs are so close to our popular Golden Circle road trip route, many opt to include it as a stop on their road trip trip itinerary.
How to Get to Hvammsvik in Iceland
There are a few ways one can get to Hvammsvik. You can book a spot on a direct transfer from the capital city. These come in the form of buses that depart from Reykjavik twice a day. Just take note, that these bus tickets do not include access to the hot springs. You can also opt to book a spot on a tour.
There are a few local tour operators and guides who offer Hvammsvik as a destination, but you can also request a customized private tour. Still, to us, the best way to explore the island is to captain your own adventure and man the wheel yourself (literally) by driving yourself. This is the most convenient and makes life exploring the island much easier.
Directions to Hvammsvik in Iceland
Driving to Hvammsvik from Reykjavik (whether as a day outing or as part of a road trip) is very simple. Get on the Ring Road (our main road around the island) and head north to Borgarnes/Akureyri. Once you get out of the capital city, you’ll continue with this road for about 15 minutes before you take a right on Route 47.
If you get to the Hvalfjordur underwater tunnel, you’ve gone too far. You’ll continue on Route 47 for about 20 kilometers by which time you should start seeing the Hvammsvik sign on your left.
General Visitor Information
Below you will find all the essential visitor information to plan and prep for your visit to Hvammsvik:
Booking and Admission
Booking at our hot springs here in Iceland has become essential, especially during our busy summer peak season. You can book your Hvammsvik experience via their online booking system. Bookings can be made via the different visitor packages. All packages include access to the hot springs and other facilities, but certain packages have other add-ons. The packages and their pricing look as follows:
The Natural Package = 4900 ISK ($35.25/€32.90)
The Classic Package = 6900 ISK ($49.65/€46.30) – this package includes added extras such as private showers, locker, and changing rooms.
The Comfort Package = 10700 ISK ($77.00/€71.80) – this package includes added extras such as private showers, locker, and changing rooms, the use of wading shoes and a towel, as well as a drink of your choice.
The transfers from Reykjavik we spoke about earlier can also be booked via Hvammsvik’s online booking platform and are charged at 7499 ISK ($53.95/€50.35).
Opening Hours
The Hvammsvik Hot Springs are open 7 days a week from 10:00 to 22:00 every day. Just keep an eye on the Iceland weather forecast and Iceland road conditions for any sudden events and changes that could impact your trip to the hot springs. Also keep in mind that most of our attractions and activities’ operating hours change throughout the year, so be sure to double-check with the venue or via their online booking platform before just heading out.
Stormur Bistro: Eating and Drinking at the Hvammsvik Hot Springs
Stormur Bistro isn’t your regular restaurant, and its menu is more for the peckish lounging around the hot springs than those interested in a proper dining experience. In fact, the Bistro’s menu leans much more towards parched with a wide variety of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic).
That being said, the menu has been compiled to ensure that there is at least something for everyone and even caters to the vegans and vegetarians amongst us. Alcoholic drinks start at around 1 500 ISK ($10.95/€10.05) and non-alcoholic options begin at around 550 ISK ($4/€3.70).
Snacks such as olives, nuts, and cheeses can be purchased from 790 ISK ($5.75/€5.30), and soups and sandwiches are priced from around 3000 ISK. And if you’re sweet tooth needs to be satisfied, there is a variety of cakes and cookies between 650 - 1550 ISK ($4.75-$11.30/€4.35-€10.35).
On-site Accommodation
There are very few hot springs in Iceland that offer on-site accommodation, making visiting Hvammsvik incredibly convenient for those who wish to extend their pampering or just get a good night’s sleep after relaxing to the max. The Hvammsvik Hot Springs accommodation comprises of 4 houses:
The Hilltop House (for up to 6 people)
The house has:
3 Bedrooms
4 Beds
2 Baths
Private Hot Spring
The Lake House (for up to 4 people)
The house has:
2 Bedrooms
3 Beds
2 Baths
The Club House (for up to 7 people)
The house has:
3 Bedrooms
5 Beds
2 Baths
Private Hot Tub
The Farm House (for up to 9 people)
The house has:
3 Bedrooms
8 Beds
2 Baths
Private Hot Tub
Visitors staying at the on-site accommodation will also be granted exclusive access to The Barn, almost like a clubhouse where you will find a lounge, a gym, as well as games to play.
Other Things to Do and See Near Hvammsvik
If you would like to do a bit more exploring in Hvammsvik’s surroundings, the following attractions should make it onto your trip itinerary:
Mt. Esja
Thorufoss Waterfall
Glymur Waterfall
Vidgelmir Cave
Is Hvammsvik Really Worth It?
If you are to believe the Hvammsvik Hot Springs reviews, a visit to Hvammsvik is a must. If you’re a nature lover who enjoys unique experiences, a bit of pampering, and immersing yourself in the traditions and cultures of the countries you visit, then Hvammsvik is an experience not to be missed.
It certainly helps that it’s so close to the capital city as well as the Golden Circle, making it such a perfect pitstop along a road trip. But however you wish to explore the island, be sure to add Hvammsvik to your trip itinerary when you travel to Iceland.
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