south iceland
Seljavallalaug Pool
About Seljavallalaug Pool
Seljavallalaug is located in a narrow valley accessible via a short 15-minute walk from a car park off the road between Skógar and Hvolsvöllur. Built in 1923, it is considered one of Iceland's oldest outdoor swimming pools still in active use. The pool measures approximately 25 metres and is filled with naturally heated geothermal water, maintaining a comfortable temperature year-round. Basic changing facilities are available, but the experience is decidedly rustic — which is much of its appeal. The valley setting is dramatic, with steep mountain walls rising on either side and a small stream running nearby. After the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption deposited volcanic ash across the area, volunteers cleared the pool and it has been maintained by a local community ever since. No entry fee is charged.
📖 Story
Built in 1923 to teach locals how to swim, Seljavallalaug is a testament to Icelandic ingenuity — a full-size outdoor pool carved into a remote valley using natural geothermal heat. Despite being covered in volcanic ash during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption and temporarily abandoned, the pool was cleaned out and returned to use. Today it remains one of the most characterful and least commercialised bathing spots in Iceland.
✈️ Why Visit
Bathe in Iceland's oldest outdoor swimming pool — free, remote, and steeped in history.
💡 Did You Know?
The pool was built in 1923 specifically to teach Icelanders to swim. Entry remains free to this day.
Key Facts
Built 1923
Approximately 25 m long
No entry fee
15-min walk from car park
Covered in ash during 2010 eruption — then cleaned out by locals
📍 GPS Location
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