Natural Hot Spring
Galtahryggjarlaug
Westfjords
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Galtahryggjarlaug, a secluded geothermal pool in the heart of the Westfjords. Surrounded by lush green grass and dotted with cheerful yellow wildflowers, this stone-built haven offers warm waters at around 40°C. A gentle mist often rises from its surface, creating an ethereal bathing experience in a truly unspoiled natural setting.
A quiet, do-it-yourself soak in an open Westfjords field, usually without another visitor in sight.
Story
Across a fast-flowing river from Heydalur farm in the Westfjords, Galtahryggjarlaug sits alone in an open field, its stone surround ringed by grass and, in summer, yellow wildflowers. There's no path or bridge — reaching it means wading the river, which visitors describe as running quite fast — but the reward is a warm pool with wide views over the valley and, most of the time, nobody else around. It's an informal, do-it-yourself kind of hot spring: the easiest way to find the crossing point is to ask at Heydalur's restaurant, where staff can point out the route on a map, or to park near the farm and follow the river upstream on foot.
History
No detailed historical record specific to Galtahryggjarlaug was found. It lies across the river from Heydalur farm, which has long used the area's geothermal water for its own hot pools and hotel; Galtahryggjarlaug itself appears to have remained an informal, undeveloped natural pool rather than a built site.
Did You Know?
The Heydalur area, where Galtahryggjarlaug is found, is one of several spots in the Westfjords where farms have tapped natural geothermal water for bathing — a reminder that Iceland's geothermal activity extends well beyond its famous named hot springs.
Admission
Free
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer, when river levels are typically lower and the surrounding field is green; daylight hours make the crossing and navigation easier.
Duration
Roughly 30–60 minutes including the walk and river crossing, based on visitor accounts.
Getting There
Galtahryggjarlaug is reached from Heydalur farm in the Westfjords, off Route 630 near Ísafjarðardjúp. There is no bridge: visitors wade a river described as fairly fast-flowing, either directly from the farm or via a parking area with a roughly 20-minute walk upstream (per visitor accounts, not independently verified). Ask at Heydalur's restaurant for current directions.
Transport
A car is needed to reach Heydalur farm; there is no public transport to this location.
Budget
Free for the natural pool itself; no admission fee reported.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee?+
No fee has been reported for Galtahryggjarlaug itself — it's a natural, undeveloped pool. (Heydalur farm's own separate, built hot pools do charge day visitors a fee, but that is a different facility from this one.)
How do I get there?+
There's no bridge or marked trail. Visitor accounts describe either wading a fast-flowing river directly from Heydalur farm, or parking near the farm and walking upstream along the river for roughly 20 minutes — exact routes and times vary by account and haven't been independently verified. Asking at Heydalur's restaurant for directions is the most reliable option.
Is it safe?+
There is no lifeguard, signage, or maintained path. The river crossing is described as having a real current and uneven footing on the far bank, so caution, appropriate footwear, and good judgment about water levels (especially after rain or snowmelt) matter here.
What should I bring?+
Water shoes or sturdy sandals for the river crossing and rocky ground, a towel, and a swimsuit — plus a willingness to get your feet wet before you get to soak.