Laugardalur — Reykjavík's Green Valley

Background

History & Background

For centuries, Laugardalur, or 'Hot Spring Valley,' held immense practical importance for Reykjavík's residents. From the earliest settlement times until the beginning of the 20th century, this valley served as the city's traditional laundry area. Natural hot springs bubbled to the surface, providing readily available warm water that made it the perfect, communal location for washing clothes. Women would make the journey from town, baskets laden with laundry, to utilize these steaming waters and lay their garments out to dry on the verdant slopes. The transformation of Laugardalur into the recreational hub we see today began in the 1920s. This shift marked a new chapter for the valley, moving from a purely utilitarian space to one focused on leisure and public enjoyment. Key developments include the establishment of the Botanical Garden in 1961, the opening of the Laugardalslaug swimming pool in 1968 (which has since undergone multiple expansions to become the large complex visible today), and the addition of the Family Park and Zoo in 1990. The national football stadium, Laugardalsvöllur, a prominent feature in the landscape, was notably rebuilt in 2008, cementing Laugardalur's status as a central sports and leisure destination for the capital.

Laugardalur, meaning 'Hot Spring Valley', has long been connected with Reykjavík’s geothermal water and outdoor life. Today the area includes Laugardalslaug swimming pool, the Reykjavík Botanic Garden, sports facilities, family-oriented recreation areas and paths through a broad green valley. Individual facilities have their own opening hours and admission arrangements, so check those separately.