Natural Hot Spring
Strútslaug
South Iceland
Discover Strútslaug, a hidden geothermal gem nestled in Iceland's remote South Highlands, where powerful volcanic forces create steaming hot springs amidst a rugged, green landscape. Experience the raw beauty of nature and the soothing mineral-rich waters near the source of the Hólmsá River, offering an unparalleled off-the-grid bathing experience.
️ This is a very remote location with no facilities or services. Access requires a 4x4 vehicle and often a significant hike. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Reach one of Iceland's most remote wilderness pools — a warm, muddy-bottomed spring at the literal source of the Hólmsá river, deep in the Fjallabak Highlands.
Story
Deep in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, where highland routes run between the glaciers Torfajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, the Hólmsá river begins as little more than a trickle from the earth. Right at that source sits Strútslaug — sometimes called Holmsárbotnalaug, 'the pool at the bottom of the Hólmsá' — a wide, natural basin split by a low stone wall into warmer and cooler sections, its floor soft with mud, its water fed directly by the geothermal ground beneath it. Getting there is most of the experience. There is no paved road, no shortcut: only unbridged river crossings, F-roads open for a few short summer months, and — for most visitors — a further walk of around an hour from the Strútur hut across open highland terrain. For those who make the trip, Strútslaug is one of the more genuine wilderness soaks left in Iceland: remote, unmanaged, and often entirely empty but for the sound of the wind and the river.
History
Strútslaug has no recorded ancient or saga-era history of its own. It takes its name from the nearby Strútur mountain in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, and its modern reputation comes almost entirely from Iceland's highland-trekking culture — travelers passing through on routes from huts such as Strútsskáli and Hólaskjól, often as part of multi-day treks through the area between Torfajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.
Highlights
- ✓Remote natural hot spring
- ✓Stunning Highland scenery
- ✓Mineral-rich geothermal waters
- ✓Experience raw volcanic forces
- ✓Off-the-grid adventure
Did You Know?
Strútslaug is also known as Holmsárbotnalaug — 'the pool at the bottom of the Hólmsá' — because it sits right where that river's headwaters emerge from the ground.
Admission
Free
Practical Information
Best Time
Late June to early September only, when highland F-roads are open; always confirm current conditions on road.is and safetravel.is before departing.
Duration
A full day at minimum, given the remote drive and hike in; many visitors combine it with an overnight highland-hut stay or a multi-day trek.
Getting There
Via F232 (from Route 209 north of the Ring Road east of Vík) toward Mælifell and the Strútur track, or via F210 (Fjallabaksleið syðri) — both routes include unbridged river crossings and require a well-equipped 4x4. From the Strútur hut (Strútsskáli), it's a further ~5 km (1–1.5 hours) on foot to the pool.
Transport
Private 4x4/superjeep (experienced highland drivers only) or a guided highland/super-jeep tour; there is no public transport into this area.
Budget
Free — no admission fee
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a 4x4 to reach Strútslaug?+
Yes, and a capable one. The approach — via F232 toward Mælifell and the Strútur track, or via F210 (Fjallabaksleið syðri) — involves multiple unbridged river crossings. A well-equipped, high-clearance 4x4 is the minimum; a superjeep is strongly recommended, and a standard 2WD car should never attempt this route.
When are the roads open?+
Only for a short window each year, typically from around late June to early September, depending on conditions. The F-roads into this part of the Highlands are closed the rest of the year, with exact opening and closing dates set annually by Iceland's Road and Coastal Administration — always check road.is and safetravel.is before setting out.
How long is the hike to the pool?+
From the Strútur hut (Strútsskáli), it's roughly 5 km (about 1–1.5 hours) each way over fairly flat, easy terrain — consistent with the 1–2 hours each way noted for this route more generally, depending on your exact starting point.
Are there any facilities or safety services at Strútslaug?+
None. There are no toilets, shelter, staff, or reliable phone signal. This is a genuinely remote location — go with proper highland gear, tell someone your plan, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather.
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