Reykjaböð Hot Springs: A New Geothermal Spa in Reykjadalur Near Reykjavík

Reykjaböð offers a different kind of hot spring experience in Iceland.

Instead of large crowds and resort-style bathing, this is a more intimate and nature-focused alternative, designed around relaxation, contrast bathing, and sensory wellness.

It is ideal if you want:

• A quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon
• A geothermal spa closer to nature
• A relaxing stop near Reykjavík without a long detour
• The experience of Reykjadalur without the hike

Reykjaböð is located in one of Iceland’s most geologically active regions, making it easy to combine your visit with nearby natural and cultural stops.

The Lava Tunnel (Raufarhólshellir)

Just a short drive from Reykjaböð, the Lava Tunnel offers a completely different perspective on Iceland’s volcanic landscape: underground.

This impressive lava tube formed over 5,000 years ago during a volcanic eruption, creating a vast cave system where you can walk through ancient lava flows and see the inner structure of the earth.

Guided tours take you deep inside the tunnel, where colorful rock formations, skylights, and frozen lava textures reveal how the landscape above was created.

It’s one of the most accessible and visually striking lava caves in Iceland, located about 30–35 minutes from Reykjavík.

Litla Kaffistofan

A stop at Litla Kaffistofan adds a completely different kind of experience, a taste of Icelandic roadside culture and motorized outdoor thrills.

Located along Route 1 just outside Reykjavík, this historic building served as a rest stop café for decades but now has a new lease on life as our ATV base just outside Reykjavík. Here you can join an ATV tour of the geothermally active area of Hellisheiði, Jósepsdalur and Hengill. Our ATV tours run from spring to fall but in winter this place serves as the perfect dark park for our northern lights tours.

Hellisheiði & Hengill Geothermal Area

The Hellisheiði plateau and Hengill volcanic system surround Reykjaböð and define the entire landscape of the area.

Here, you’ll find steaming vents, lava fields, and dramatic mountain scenery shaped by ongoing geothermal activity. The region is one of the most active geothermal zones in Iceland, offering hiking trails, viewpoints, and wide-open views across South Iceland.

This is also the gateway to Reykjadalur itself, making Reykjaböð not just a destination, but part of a much larger geothermal environment.

A Perfect Combination of Nature, Geology, and Relaxation

One of the biggest advantages of visiting Reykjaböð is how easily it fits into a wider experience.

In a single day, you can:

- Explore volcanic caves underground

- Join a thrilling ATV ride through volcanic landscapes

- Walk through active geothermal landscapes

- Relax in a modern hot springs spa

Few places in Iceland offer this combination of accessibility and variety so close to Reykjavík.

At the centre of Reykjaböð is a 900 m² geothermal lagoon filled with mineral-rich water, maintained at a comfortable temperature of 38–40°C.

The lagoon features varying depths and gentle slopes, allowing guests to move freely between spaces and find their ideal place to relax.

Surrounded by moss-covered landscapes and geothermal steam, the setting feels immersed in nature rather than built around it. This makes Reykjaböð stand out among Iceland’s hot springs, offering a more natural and grounded atmosphere.

Reykjaböð is designed as a full wellness journey, not just a soak.

Guests can move through a series of hot and cold experiences that stimulate circulation, reduce stress, and deepen relaxation.

This includes:

• A dry heat event sauna for relaxation and guided sessions
• Cold plunge pools with varying temperatures
• A Kneipp pool designed for circulation therapy
• Open-air bathing areas connected to the landscape

This contrast bathing ritual is a core part of the Reykjaböð experience and reflects traditional Nordic wellness practices.

For a deeper level of relaxation, Reykjaböð offers a full bathhouse spa with curated treatments and immersive environments.

Facilities include:

• Arctic snow room
• Steam bath
• Herbal pool
• Experience showers
• Infused dry sauna
• Nordic plunge
• Floating pool
• Fire pit relaxation area

Spa treatments inspired by Icelandic nature are also available, offering massages and body rituals designed to restore both body and mind.

Reykjaböð provides modern changing rooms with private lockers and thoughtfully designed spaces.

Guests have access to:

• Private changing cubicles
• Enclosed showers with complimentary toiletries
• Vanity areas with hairdryers
• Accessible facilities and private changing options

From the changing area, guests can step directly into the lagoon, creating a smooth and comfortable transition into the experience.

Guests can enjoy refreshments without leaving the water at the swim-up bar, offering a selection of drinks designed to complement the experience.

An on-site bistro also serves nourishing meals and light dishes, making it easy to spend several hours at Reykjaböð without rushing.

Reykjadalur is one of Iceland’s most famous natural hot spring locations, known for its geothermal river.

However, visiting Reykjadalur requires a 1–2 hour hike each way and once there, it’s wild bathing at its finest with no real facilities. While we do love our geothermal river, it’s not for everyone and not a luxurious spa experience in any way.

Reykjaböð offers a different experience:

• No hiking required
• Full spa and wellness facilities
• Changing rooms and on-site dining
• A more accessible and comfortable environment

If you want the atmosphere of Reykjadalur with added comfort and structure, Reykjaböð is a strong alternative.

Reykjaböð is likely to become one of the most interesting new geothermal spas in Iceland.

Its location, smaller scale, and focus on wellness set it apart from larger lagoons, making it especially appealing for travelers looking for a quieter and more immersive experience.

For those staying in Reykjavík or exploring the Golden Circle or South Coast, Reykjaböð offers an easy and rewarding stop.

Reykjaböð is located in Hveragerði, about 35 minutes from Reykjavík.

It can be visited:

• As a standalone stop from Reykjavík
• As part of a Golden Circle itinerary
• Along the South Coast route

Guided tours and transfer options from Reykjavík will be available, making it easy to combine Reykjaböð with other highlights or simply book admission with transfer from Reykjavík.

Reykjaböð is scheduled to open in June 2026.

As a brand-new attraction in a popular area, it is expected to attract significant interest once it opens. We will launch sales of our admission to Reykjaböð with transfer from Reykjavík as well as various combo tours of Golden Circle and Reykjaböð and South Coast with Reykjaböð as soon as sales are open.