reykjavik
Sundhöllin — Reykjavík's Art Deco Pool
About Sundhöllin — Reykjavík's Art Deco Pool
Sundhöllin opened 1937, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (state architect who also designed Hallgrímskirkja, National Theatre, University of Iceland main building). The Art Deco building is one of Reykjavík's architectural treasures. Facilities: Indoor 25-metre heated pool (main pool), outdoor hot pots (2–3 at varying temperatures 38–42°C), steam room, sauna, children's pool, changing rooms with showers. The pool uses geothermal water — naturally heated from underground. Water temperature in main pool ~29°C (refreshingly cool by Icelandic standards). Located at Barónsstígur 45a, just off Laugavegur shopping street — the most central pool in Reykjavík. Popular with downtown residents, tourists staying centrally, and architecture enthusiasts. Reykjavík pool etiquette: Shower naked before entering pool (mandatory, enforced). Bring your own towel or rent one.
🐉 Where Downtown Swims
Sundhöllin is where central Reykjavík has been swimming for 87 years — grandparents who swam here as children now bring their grandchildren.
📖 History of Sundhöllin — Reykjavík's Art Deco Pool
Opened 18 August 1937 as Iceland's first purpose-built public pool. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson in Art Deco style (same architect as Hallgrímskirkja). The building is now heritage-listed. Renovated multiple times but original Art Deco facade and interior elements preserved.
💡 Did You Know?
The architect Guðjón Samúelsson designed three of Reykjavík's most iconic buildings: Hallgrímskirkja, the National Theatre, and this swimming pool. The pool is the oldest of the three.
Key Facts
Iceland's oldest public pool (opened 1937)
Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson (Hallgrímskirkja architect)
Art Deco architectural landmark
Most central pool in Reykjavík (off Laugavegur)
Indoor 25m pool + outdoor hot pots
💎 Hidden Gems
The Art Deco Interior
The changing room corridors and entrance hall retain original 1937 Art Deco details — tiles, lighting, architectural elements. Swimming history wrapped in architectural beauty.
The Morning Regulars
Visit at 7am and you'll swim alongside the same locals who have been coming here for decades — the pool is a social ritual as much as exercise.
🕐 Best Time
Morning/evening for local atmosphere
🚗 Access
Barónsstígur 45a, just off Laugavegur
⏱ Duration
1–2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to shower naked?▾
Yes — Icelandic pool law requires thorough naked shower before entering water. Non-negotiable.
How much is entry?▾
Around 1,100 ISK adults. Bring your own towel or rent one (500 ISK).
📍 GPS Location
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