About

Sundhöll Reykjavíkur is a historic indoor swimming pool located at Barónsstígur 45 in central Reykjavík, just steps from Hallgrímskirkja church. The pool opened in 1937 and is the oldest indoor swimming facility in Iceland still in operation. The building was designed by renowned architect Guðjón Samúelsson in Art Deco style. The exterior features clean lines and geometric patterns typical of 1930s modernism. The interior retains much of its original character, with vintage tiles, high ceilings, and classical proportions. Facilities include: - **Indoor 25-metre pool**: Heated to 28–29°C - **Hot tubs**: Outdoor geothermal hot pots (38–42°C) - **Steam room and sauna** - **Changing rooms**: Separate for men and women - **Gym**: Small fitness room Sundhöll Reykjavíkur is particularly popular in winter when outdoor pools are too cold for some visitors. The indoor setting provides a warm, sheltered environment for year-round swimming. Many locals use it for early-morning or lunchtime swims before work. The pool is centrally located, making it convenient for tourists staying in downtown Reykjavík. It's less crowded than some of Reykjavík's larger pools, offering a quieter, more intimate experience. Admission follows standard Icelandic public pool pricing (~1,000 ISK). The pool is open daily year-round.

📖 Story

When Sundhöll Reykjavíkur opened in 1937, it was revolutionary — Iceland's first modern indoor heated swimming pool, built in sleek Art Deco style at a time when most Icelanders still bathed in natural hot springs or cold sea water. The building was designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson (who also designed Hallgrímskirkja) and represents a turning point in Icelandic public health and culture. Today, nearly 90 years later, the pool still operates in its original building, lovingly preserved, serving Reykjavík's downtown residents and visitors who appreciate swimming in a piece of living history.

Key Facts