Even though Icelanders are mysterious people who are prone to protect their valuable nature, the Secret Lagoon in Iceland is a treasure they are happy to share. If you want to explore the Icelandic culture and history, this will most likely be the most pleasant way to do so. Read on to find out why you should put this at the top of the list of things to do in Iceland.
The Hot Take on the Secret Lagoon in Iceland
The Land of Fire and Ice contains a magnitude of geothermal activity, and to everyone’s great content, it comes with an abundance of hot pools. The Secret Lagoon is one of the most famous and loved hot pools in the country.
When you walk out towards the pool, you’ll see that the pool edges are made of natural rock to give a serene, natural impression. Despite this natural feel, the only natural parts of the Secret Lagoon in Iceland are the geothermal water coming up from the depths and the moss-covered stunning nature surrounding it.
The Secret Lagoon is loved by locals and visitors, so you’re likely to hear a multitude of languages as you float around in the large pool.
The Steamy History of the Secret Lagoon in Iceland
The Secret Lagoon in Iceland is the oldest man-made swimming pool in the country and was “built” (more like carved out) as early as 1891. Since it had been used by locals even before the construction, it got the nickname “old pool”, which in Icelandic becomes “Gamla Laugin”.
In the very early 1900s, Gamla Laugin was one of the very few spots that taught the Icelanders how to swim. This continued until 1947, when the swim school was moved to another nearby pool. This was the start of how the Secret Lagoon in Iceland slowly began to fade from the memory of the locals.
For a long time, the owner of the land of the lagoon used it as his own personal swimming pool, only inviting some friends sometimes. This is why it is now nicknamed “the Secret Lagoon”. In 2005, the new owner decided to revamp and commercialize the pool, which is why the secret is out, and we can all now enjoy the Secret Lagoon Hot Springs.
Where is the Secret Lagoon in Iceland?
A little bit inland from the southwestern coast of Iceland, you can find a small town named Flúðir. Nestled in the Icelandic highlands, not far away from the popular Golden Circle, the Secret Lagoon in Iceland is in the eastern part of the town.
With roughly 105 kilometers of road, it would take you roughly 1.5 hours to get to the Secret Lagoon Hot Springs from central Reykjavik.
How do I get to the Secret Lagoon in Iceland?
Apart from walking, there are many ways to get to the Secret Lagoon in Iceland. Below, you’ll find the most used means of transport:
Car
This is the popular choice for independent travelers who want to be able to take a detour at a moment's notice. From Reykjavik, follow Ring Road 1 southeast for about 64 kilometers until you reach the exit for Road 30. Take the exit and follow Road 30 until you reach Flúðir. Now, it’s simply a matter of following the many signs that point you to the Secret Lagoon in Iceland.
Bus
Going there by bus will take between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, which is why we don’t recommend this option. You will have to take a bus from Reykjavik to Selfoss, then from Selfoss to Flúðir. After that, you’ll have to walk about 1.2 kilometers to the actual pool.
Tour
There will be a myriad of options for taking a tour option to the Secret Lagoon, and most of them will be part of a Golden Circle tour. When taking one of the many tour options that include the Secret Lagoon, it’s important to remember that there will be other stops along the tour. This often entails the passengers having limited time at each stop, so just make the most of your pool visit. The other option is to arrange a customized private tour with one of the local tour operators or private guides.
What to Expect at the Secret Lagoon
The water in the pool is fed by the geothermal hot springs, which means that the water coming up is rich in sulfur and is very warm. So, can you swim in the Secret Lagoon? Yes! The Secret Lagoon in Iceland keeps an average temperature between 38-40 degrees Celsius and the sulfur won’t cause you any harm.
You can expect the bare necessities at the pool, as the area keeps a humble approach in line with Icelandic core values. The bistro on site can serve simple drinks and snacks, but no hot meals. Showers and bathrooms are offered on-site, and you can rent both towels and swimsuits if you have accidentally forgotten yours.
If you visit Iceland in the summer, you will need to book a ticket to ensure a spot in the pool.
How Long Do I Need at the Secret Lagoon?
Unlike places like the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon in Iceland doesn’t have a specific time attached to the tickets. This means that you can stay for as long as you want, with the closing time being the natural ending of your stay. An average stay is around 1.5 to 2 hours long, and if you go on a tour, you need to stick to the tour’s timetable.
Where to Stay Close to the Secret Lagoon
You have some options regarding accommodation close to the Secret Lagoon in Iceland. The nearby guesthouse, the local hotel, and the campground are our top three picks.
The local hotel, The Hill, offers state-of-the-art rooms, event facilities, and a top-notch restaurant and bar.
The Garður Stay Inn Fluðir (the nearby guesthouse) offers fully equipped double bedrooms with kitchen and laundry, as well as access to the Secret Lagoon Hot Springs during the opening hours.
If you want to get closer to nature, the Fluðir Camping Grounds are fully equipped and an excellent base for exploring the area.
Other Sites Near the Secret Lagoon in Iceland
The Secret Lagoon in Iceland neighbors some good attractions that will enhance your Iceland experience:
The Golden Circle
The Geysir Geothermal area
Þjórsárdalur
The Secret Lagoon: Your Tour of Icelandic Culture and History
After reading this article, it’s hard to find a reason not to visit the Secret Lagoon in Iceland. A humble experience that lets you literally soak in hundreds of years of established culture and history.
There is no better way to complement this than to book a tour in Iceland to truly take in the heritage presented by the strong and hardy Icelandic people. Contact us at Travel to Iceland for all your Icelandic tour and holiday needs.