Secret Lagoon

Overview

Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) stands as Iceland's oldest natural swimming pool, established in 1891 in the geothermal village of Flúðir. Fed by natural hot springs reaching temperatures of 38-40°C, this authentic geothermal bathing experience offers a more intimate alternative to Iceland's larger, more commercialised hot springs. The lagoon maintains its water temperature year-round through a constant flow from nearby Vellir geothermal area, where bubbling hot springs and a small geyser create an ever-changing backdrop of steam and geological activity.

What distinguishes Secret Lagoon from other geothermal attractions is its commitment to preserving the natural bathing experience that Icelanders have enjoyed for over a century. The pool's irregular, natural edges and mineral-rich waters remain largely unmodified, surrounded by walking paths that showcase active geothermal features including fumaroles, hot springs, and the small Litli-Geysir that erupts every few minutes. The facility strikes a balance between authentic wilderness bathing and modern amenities, providing changing facilities and safety measures whilst maintaining the lagoon's historical character and natural setting.

Quick Facts

**GPS Coordinates:** 64.1370°N, 20.3230°W

**Entry Fee:** 4,500 ISK adults, 2,000 ISK seniors (67+), free for children under 14

**Opening Hours:** Daily 10:00-20:00 (extended to 22:00 June-August)

**Water Temperature:** 38-40°C year-round

**Best Time to Visit:** Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds

**Access Level:** Easy, suitable for all fitness levels

**Nearest Town:** Flúðir (1.5km), Selfoss (25km)

**Facilities:** Changing rooms, lockers, small café, outdoor showers

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) east for 54km to the junction with Route 35. Follow Route 35 north through Selfoss for 18km, then turn right onto Route 30 towards Flúðir. After 7km on Route 30, turn left following signs for "Gamla Laugin" and continue for 1.2km on a paved access road. Total journey time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes covering 80km.

From the Golden Circle route, Secret Lagoon serves as an excellent addition after visiting Geysir and Gullfoss. From Geysir, drive 19km south on Route 35 to the Route 30 junction, then follow the directions above.

Parking

A gravel car park accommodates approximately 100 vehicles directly adjacent to the entrance building. Parking is free with no time restrictions. During peak summer months (July-August), the car park may reach capacity between 14:00-17:00. Overflow parking is available on grassy areas nearby, though these may be unsuitable during wet conditions.

Access

The lagoon entrance sits 50 metres from the car park via a flat, paved walkway suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The geothermal walking path extends 600 metres around the pool area on well-maintained boardwalks and gravel paths.

What to See and Do

The primary attraction is the natural geothermal pool itself, measuring roughly 40 metres in diameter with varying depths from 0.5 to 1.5 metres. Unlike artificially heated pools, Secret Lagoon's temperature fluctuates naturally based on geothermal activity, though it consistently remains comfortable for bathing. The mineral content creates a silky water texture and distinctive sulphur aroma characteristic of Iceland's geothermal areas.

The surrounding geothermal field provides exceptional viewing opportunities for active geological features. Litli-Geysir, located 30 metres from the pool's edge, erupts approximately every 5-10 minutes, shooting water 1-2 metres into the air. Several bubbling hot springs and fumaroles dot the landscape, creating dramatic steam plumes that shift with wind direction and atmospheric pressure.

A circular walking path allows visitors to explore the geothermal area safely, with interpretive signs explaining the geological processes and historical significance. The path includes viewing platforms positioned for optimal photography of the geysir eruptions and steaming springs. During winter months, the contrast between snow-covered surroundings and billowing geothermal steam creates particularly striking scenery.

The on-site café serves traditional Icelandic refreshments including geothermally-baked rye bread, locally-sourced ingredients, and hot beverages ideal for post-bathing warmth during cooler months.

Best Time to Visit

**Summer (June-August):** Warmest air temperatures and longest daylight hours create ideal conditions, though this coincides with peak tourist season. Arriving before 11:00 or after 17:00 helps avoid crowds. The midnight sun period offers unique late-evening bathing experiences.

**Autumn (September-November):** Excellent weather-to-crowd ratios with comfortable air temperatures and changing foliage providing scenic backgrounds. Occasional Northern Lights viewing possible from late September onwards during clear evenings.

**Winter (December-February):** Most atmospheric season with snow-covered landscapes and frequent Northern Lights opportunities. Air temperatures down to -10°C create dramatic temperature contrasts when entering the warm water. Shorter daylight hours (4-6 hours) may limit sightseeing combinations.

**Spring (March-May):** Increasing daylight and milder temperatures with fewer crowds than summer. Weather can be unpredictable with possible snow through April. Lupine flowers begin blooming in late May, adding colour to the geothermal landscape.

Safety

Water temperatures remain safe for extended bathing, though visitors should enter gradually and stay hydrated. The pool's natural bottom can be uneven with occasional loose stones; water shoes provide additional grip and comfort.

The geothermal area beyond designated paths poses genuine dangers from unstable ground and scalding water temperatures exceeding 90°C. Stay strictly within marked boundaries and supervise children closely. Geothermal steam can obscure vision and ground conditions suddenly.

Winter conditions create additional hazards including icy walkways and parking areas. The facility maintains paths, but visitors should exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear. Strong winds can intensify cold exposure when exiting the warm water.

Standard geothermal bathing precautions apply: shower before entering, avoid submerging your head, limit initial sessions to 20-30 minutes, and exit immediately if feeling dizzy or overheated.

Nearby Places

**Gullfoss Waterfall** (19km northeast): Iceland's most famous waterfall, where the Hvítá River plunges 32 metres into a dramatic canyon. Essential Golden Circle stop accessible via Route 35.

**Geysir Geothermal Area** (19km northeast): Home to Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-8 minutes up to 30 metres high. Historic site of the original Geysir that gave English its word for these phenomena.

**Friðheimar Greenhouse** (15km northwest): Working tomato and cucumber farm utilising geothermal energy, offering tours, tastings, and meals featuring home-grown produce in a greenhouse setting.

**Kerið Crater Lake** (35km west): Volcanic crater lake with striking red rock walls and blue-green water, formed 3,000 years ago. Small entry fee required.

**Flúðir Village** (1.5km east): Traditional Icelandic farming community with additional geothermal pools, local restaurants, and the renowned Icelandic Horse Park offering riding experiences.

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