Natural Hot Spring
Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
west-iceland
Deildartunguhver is Europe's highest-flow hot spring, gushing out boiling water at 97°C at a rate of 180 liters per second. The geothermal energy heats homes in towns up to 64 km away. Boardwalks allow safe viewing of the powerful spring and steaming vents.
Experience Iceland's geothermal energy up close at Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
Story
Boardwalks allow safe viewing of the powerful spring and steaming vents. Two nearby spas use the water.
About Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
Deildartunguhver is Europe's highest-flow hot spring, gushing out boiling water at 97°C at a rate of 180 liters per second. The geothermal energy heats homes in towns up to 64 km away. Boardwalks allow safe viewing of the powerful spring and steaming vents. Two nearby spas use the water.
History
Deildartunguhver Hot Spring in West Iceland sits atop one of Iceland's many geothermal hotspots, a testament to the volcanic forces that continue to shape this island. Geothermal activity has been central to Icelandic life since the earliest settlers arrived in the 9th century. The Norse settlers quickly learned to harness hot springs for bathing, cooking, and washing. The famous Snorralaug (Snorri's Pool), built in the 13th century, demonstrates how deeply geothermal bathing is embedded in Icelandic culture. In the 20th century, Iceland pioneered the use of geothermal energy for district heating, and today about 90% of Icelandic homes are heated by geothermal water. Sites like Deildartunguhver Hot Spring represent both the ancient and modern relationship between Icelanders and their geothermal landscape.
Did You Know?
- Iceland generates about 25% of its electricity from geothermal energy
- Geothermal water heats about 90% of all buildings in Iceland
- Iceland has over 600 hot springs and 200+ volcanically heated areas
- The word "geyser" comes from the Icelandic word "geysa" meaning to gush
Did You Know?
Iceland generates about 25% of its electricity from geothermal energy and heats 90% of its homes with geothermal water
