north iceland
Grettislaug Hot Pot
About Grettislaug Hot Pot
Grettislaug is located on the western shore of Skagafjörður near Reykir farm in North Iceland. Facilities: - Two concrete hot pots (built modern, natural hot spring water) - Temperature: ~39°C - Open-air, oceanfront location - Changing room - Honesty box payment (~1,000 ISK suggested donation) Legend: - Named after Grettir Ásmundarson (Grettis Saga) - Grettir allegedly swam 7 km from Drangey Island - Used hot spring to warm up after freezing swim - One of Iceland's most famous outlaw heroes Views: - Drangey Island offshore - Skagafjörður bay - Mountains across fjord Access: - Route 744 from Sauðárkrókur - Gravel road to Reykir farm - Short walk to hot pots - Year-round access Combine with: Drangey Island boat tour, Glaumbær turf farm, Hólar cathedral Visit duration: 1 hour (bathing + views). Nearby: Sauðárkrókur town (20 km), Hofsós pool (30 km).
🐉 The Lagarfljót Wyrm
The lakes and rivers of North and East Iceland are said to harbor the Lagarfljótsormurinn, a fearsome serpent similar to Scotland's Loch Ness Monster. According to legend, a young girl placed a gold ring on a heath serpent to make it grow, but the creature grew so large and fierce that she threw it into Lagarfljót lake. The serpent continued to grow and has terrorized the area for centuries. Sightings have been reported well into the modern era, with some photographs and videos purporting to show the creature. Whether real or imagined, the legend reflects Iceland's deep connection to its watery landscapes and the mysteries they hold.
📖 History of Grettislaug Hot Pot
This site in North Iceland continues a bathing tradition that stretches back over 1,000 years in Iceland. The Norse settlers who arrived in the 9th century quickly discovered and utilized the island's abundant hot springs. The medieval Icelandic sagas mention hot spring bathing multiple times, most famously Snorri Sturluson's pool at Reykholt from the 13th century. Throughout history, hot springs served as social gathering places, washing stations for wool, and sources of warmth during harsh winters. The tradition of communal bathing remains an essential part of Icelandic culture to this day, connecting modern visitors to practices that have endured for over a millennium.
✈️ Why Visit
Soak in saga hero Grettir's legendary hot spring with views of Drangey Island — imagine the 7 km freezing ocean swim.
💡 Did You Know?
According to Grettis Saga, Grettir swam 7 km in freezing water carrying fire (kept dry in a box) to bring warmth back to Drangey Island.
Key Facts
Named for saga hero Grettir
7 km swim legend from Drangey
~39°C geothermal water
Ocean views
Honesty box payment
💎 Hidden Gems
Stargazing Soak
If visiting in winter, soak in this attraction while watching for the Northern Lights overhead.
There's no better way to experience the aurora than from the warmth of a natural hot spring.
Quiet Hours
Visit early in the morning or just before closing for the most peaceful bathing experience.
The tranquility of a near-empty hot spring, surrounded by Icelandic nature, is truly restorative.
Temperature Zones
Most hot springs have areas of varying temperature — explore to find your perfect spot.
Where hot water meets cold streams, you can find your ideal bathing temperature and enjoy a natural hydrotherapy experience.
🕐 Best Time
Year-round; winter bathing under Northern Lights is magical
🚗 Access
Varies from easy roadside access to remote hikes. Some require entry fees.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring a swimsuit?▾
Yes, bring a swimsuit and towel. Some commercial hot springs offer rental options.
Is this hot spring free?▾
Natural hot springs in the wild are typically free. Commercial hot spring facilities charge an entrance fee.
How hot is the water?▾
Temperatures vary from lukewarm to very hot. Always test the water carefully before entering, especially at natural springs.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
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