Laugarvatn Fontana

Overview

Laugarvatn Fontana sits on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, a natural geothermal spa that transforms Iceland's raw volcanic power into a civilised bathing experience. Built directly over natural hot springs, the facility harnesses geothermal energy not only for its pools and saunas but also for the traditional practice of baking rye bread underground—a culinary technique that visitors can witness and taste firsthand.

What distinguishes Laugarvatn Fontana from Iceland's more famous hot springs is its integration of authentic geothermal traditions with modern spa amenities. The facility operates as both a working demonstration of traditional Icelandic geothermal cooking and a contemporary wellness destination. The steam rooms are built directly over natural hot springs, creating an authentic geothermal experience where the earth's heat rises naturally through the floors. The combination of man-made pools, natural lake access, and the unique bread-baking experience makes this one of Iceland's most culturally significant geothermal attractions.

The location holds particular importance in Iceland's geothermal heritage. Local families have used these natural hot springs for centuries, and the bread-baking tradition represents a direct connection to Iceland's resourceful approach to harnessing geothermal energy for daily life. The facility maintains this cultural authenticity whilst providing the comfort and safety standards expected by modern visitors.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 64.2250°N, 20.7083°W

**Entry Fee:** Adults 4,900 ISK (€32), Children (12-15) 2,450 ISK (€16), Under 12 free

**Opening Hours:** Daily 10:00-23:00 (summer), 11:00-21:00 (winter)

**Best Time to Visit:** Year-round, optimal during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October)

**Access Level:** Easy, suitable for all ages and mobility levels

**Nearest Town:** Laugarvatn village (1km), Selfoss (25km)

**Elevation:** 55 metres above sea level

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) eastbound for 35km to the junction with Route 37. Turn left onto Route 37 towards Laugarvatn and continue for 24km through Apavatn and past Kerið crater. At the T-junction, turn right onto Route 365 and follow signs for Laugarvatn Fontana for 2km. The total journey covers 61km and takes approximately 55 minutes under normal conditions.

Alternative scenic route: Take Route 35 (Þingvallavatn) via Þingvellir National Park, adding 15 minutes but passing significant landmarks including Þingvellir and Kerið crater. This route is particularly recommended for first-time visitors combining multiple Golden Circle attractions.

Parking

Free parking available in a gravel car park directly adjacent to the main building. The facility accommodates approximately 80 vehicles, including designated spaces for coaches and motorhomes. During peak summer months (June-August), arrive before 14:00 or after 19:00 to ensure parking availability.

Access

The main entrance lies 30 metres from the car park via a paved walkway. All facilities are wheelchair accessible, including adapted changing rooms and pool access ramps. The path to the lake bathing area involves a gentle 100-metre walk on maintained gravel paths.

What to See and Do

The geothermal pools form the centrepiece, with temperatures ranging from 36°C to 40°C across three outdoor mineral pools. Each pool draws directly from underground hot springs, maintaining consistent temperatures and mineral content throughout the year. The mineral composition includes silica and sulphur, characteristic of the Laugarvatn geothermal field.

Traditional steam rooms built over active hot springs provide an authentic geothermal experience. The natural steam rises through traditional wooden floors, creating temperatures between 45°C and 55°C. These chambers represent one of Iceland's few remaining examples of traditional geothermal architecture adapted for modern use.

Lake Laugarvatn bathing offers a unique contrast experience. Visitors traditionally alternate between the hot pools and the cool lake water, following Icelandic bathing customs. The lake temperature ranges from 2°C (winter) to 15°C (summer), providing an invigorating counterpoint to the hot springs.

The geothermal bread-baking demonstration occurs daily at 14:30. Visitors observe the retrieval of rye bread buried in the geothermal sand for 24 hours, where ground temperatures reach 80-100°C. The bread tasting includes traditional Icelandic accompaniments including smoked trout and butter. This represents one of Iceland's most accessible demonstrations of traditional geothermal cooking methods.

Best Time to Visit

**June-August:** Peak season with warmest weather and midnight sun. Expect crowds, particularly 11:00-17:00. Lake bathing most comfortable. Book bread-baking demonstrations in advance.

**September-November:** Optimal visiting period with fewer crowds and potential Northern Lights viewing from the outdoor pools. Lake temperatures cooling but still manageable for brief dips.

**December-February:** Magical winter atmosphere with snow-covered surroundings and best Northern Lights opportunities. Lake bathing requires quick transitions. Steam rooms particularly appreciated during cold months.

**March-May:** Shoulder season offering good weather with minimal crowds. Lake begins warming from April. Some of the year's best photography conditions with snow-capped mountains and clear skies.

Safety

Geothermal pool temperatures require gradual acclimatisation. Enter pools slowly and limit initial sessions to 15-20 minutes. Hydration is essential due to the mineral content and heat exposure.

Lake bathing presents hypothermia risks, particularly October-May. Never enter the lake alone and limit exposure to 1-2 minutes during winter months. The facility provides safety supervision during operating hours, but lake access remains at personal risk.

Steam room temperatures can cause overheating. Exit immediately if experiencing dizziness or nausea. Pregnant women and individuals with heart conditions should consult staff before using steam facilities.

Road conditions on Route 37 can deteriorate rapidly during winter storms. Check road.is for current conditions and carry emergency supplies October-April.

Nearby Places

**Kerið Crater** (8km south): Volcanic crater lake with walking path around the rim. 400 ISK entry fee. 15-minute drive via Route 35.

**Secret Lagoon** (15km southeast): Historic natural hot spring pool in Flúðir. More rustic alternative to Fontana. 3,200 ISK entry fee.

**Geysir Geothermal Area** (35km northeast): Home to Strokkur geyser and numerous hot springs. Free access. Major Golden Circle attraction.

**Gullfoss Waterfall** (45km northeast): Iceland's most famous two-tier waterfall. Free access with visitor centre and café. Combines well with Geysir visit.

**Selfoss** (25km south): Largest town in the region with supermarkets, restaurants, and accommodation options. Essential services for extended stays in the area.

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