south iceland
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
About Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin - 'Old Pool') is located in Flúðir village in South Iceland. Key features: - Built 1891 (Iceland's oldest pool) - Natural geothermal pool (38-40°C year-round) - Small geyser erupting nearby every 5 minutes - Hot spring vents around pool - Boardwalk viewing path - Rustic, natural setting Facilities: - Changing rooms and showers - Small café - Geothermal greenhouse nearby Pool characteristics: - Size: ~100 m² natural pool - Constant temperature from geothermal source - Gravel bottom (natural) - Cloudy/milky water from minerals Access: - Route 1 to Route 30 to Flúðir - 1 hour from Reykjavík - Year-round operation - Admission: ~3,500-4,000 ISK Best visited: Evening/night (Northern lights in winter, midnight sun in summer) Combine with: Golden Circle, Kerið crater, Fridheimar greenhouse Visit duration: 1.5-2 hours.
🐉 The Troll of Reynisdrangar
The dramatic sea stacks at Reynisdrangar, visible from many points along the South Iceland coast, are said to be trolls turned to stone. According to legend, two trolls were trying to drag a three-masted ship to shore when they were caught by the first rays of dawn. Sunlight is fatal to trolls in Icelandic folklore, and they were instantly petrified, becoming the towering rock pillars that stand in the sea to this day. On stormy nights, some locals say you can still hear the trolls groaning as the waves crash against them, forever frozen in their midnight labor.
📖 History of Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
This site in South 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
Bathe in Iceland's oldest geothermal pool with a geyser erupting at the edge — rustic hot spring experience from 1891.
💡 Did You Know?
Secret Lagoon was Iceland's first public swimming pool, built in 1891 when most Icelanders bathed in rivers or didn't bathe at all.
Key Facts
Built 1891 (oldest pool)
38-40°C natural hot spring
Small geyser at pool edge
Rustic natural setting
Golden Circle area
💎 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
Book a Tour to Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
Find guided tours, day trips and activities. Compare prices and book instantly with free cancellation.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.