Natural Hot Springs of the Westfjords: The Full Guide

The Westfjords peninsula harbours some of Iceland's most remote and pristine geothermal springs, where visitors can soak in naturally heated waters whilst surrounded by dramatic fjord landscapes. Unlike the heavily touristed pools of southwestern Iceland, these springs offer an intimate encounter with Iceland's geothermal heritage in settings of extraordinary beauty.

Why the Westfjords' Springs Are Special

The Westfjords sit upon some of Iceland's oldest geological formations, dating back 13-16 million years. This ancient basaltic bedrock, combined with the region's complex fault systems, creates unique geothermal conditions. The springs here typically maintain temperatures between 35-45°C year-round, heated by deep groundwater circulation through fractured bedrock rather than direct volcanic activity.

What distinguishes these springs is their pristine setting. Many remain accessible only by hiking or 4WD vehicle, preserving an authentic wilderness experience increasingly rare elsewhere in Iceland. The mineral content varies significantly between locations, with some springs rich in silica creating milky blue pools, whilst others remain crystal clear.

Reykjafjarðarlaug: The Crown Jewel

Located 18 kilometres south of Ísafjörður along Route 61, Reykjafjarðarlaug stands as the Westfjords' premier natural bathing destination. This geothermal pool maintains a steady 40°C temperature and features a concrete border installed in the 1970s to create a proper bathing area whilst preserving the spring's natural character.

The pool measures roughly 15 metres in diameter and 1.2 metres at its deepest point. Its waters emerge from several springs beneath the pool floor, creating gentle currents that distribute heat evenly. The high silica content gives the water a distinctive soft feel and slight blue tint.

Access requires a 2-kilometre walk from the roadside parking area along a well-marked trail. The path crosses boggy terrain, so waterproof hiking boots are essential. During winter months, the trail can be treacherous due to ice, making microspikes or similar traction devices advisable.

No facilities exist at the site—visitors must come prepared with towels, drinking water, and changing clothes. The nearest accommodations are in Ísafjörður, where Hotel Ísafjörður (from 18,500 ISK/€125 per night) offers comfortable lodging.

Krosslaug: The Remote Sanctuary

Situated near the village of Krossa in Árneshreppur municipality, Krosslaug requires significant effort to reach but rewards visitors with complete solitude. The spring sits 8 kilometres from Route 643 via an unmarked 4WD track that becomes impassable during winter months.

This natural pool maintains temperatures around 38°C and features a sandy bottom with several hot spots where water bubbles up through the substrate. The pool's irregular shape follows the natural contours of the geothermal area, creating intimate corners sheltered from wind.

The surrounding landscape epitomises Westfjords wilderness: rolling hills carpeted in moss and arctic willow, with distant peaks framing the horizon. During summer months (June-September), the area blooms with cotton grass and arctic poppies, whilst autumn brings spectacular northern lights viewing opportunities.

Accessing Krosslaug requires a capable 4WD vehicle and GPS navigation, as the track is unmarked and crosses several streams. Allow 2-3 hours driving time from Ísafjörður. The nearest services are in Drangsnes, 45 kilometres away, where the Hotel Drangsnes (12,800 ISK/€87 per night) provides basic accommodation.

Hellulaug: Seaside Soaking

Perhaps the Westfjords' most dramatically positioned hot spring, Hellulaug sits directly beside the sea near the village of Flókalundur. This concrete-lined pool was constructed in 1960 using stones from the surrounding beach, creating a rustic circular basin approximately 6 metres in diameter.

The spring maintains a temperature of 38-42°C depending on tidal conditions, as seawater occasionally mingles with the geothermal flow during high tide and storms. This creates a unique brackish bathing experience with elevated mineral content.

The location offers unparalleled views across Breiðafjörður bay towards the Snæfellsnes peninsula. On clear days, Snæfellsjökull glacier appears on the horizon 60 kilometres distant. The site includes basic changing facilities and picnic tables, making it suitable for families.

Hellulaug sits just 200 metres from Route 60, with parking available roadside. The Hotel Flókalundur (15,600 ISK/€106 per night) provides accommodation within walking distance, along with restaurant services and fuel.

Practical Considerations

Best Visiting Times

Summer months (June-September) offer the most reliable access to all springs, with 24-hour daylight enabling flexible timing. However, winter visits provide magical experiences with potential aurora displays overhead whilst soaking in hot waters.

Weather conditions change rapidly in the Westfjords. Always check forecasts at vedur.is before departing, and inform others of your planned route and return time.

What to Bring

Essential items include quick-dry towels, flip-flops or water shoes, drinking water, and complete changes of clothes stored in waterproof bags. A headtorch proves invaluable for winter visits or early morning departures.

Consider bringing a thermometer to monitor water temperatures, particularly at unregulated springs where conditions vary. Some visitors pack portable chairs for extended relaxation sessions.

Safety Guidelines

Never bathe alone at remote springs. The nearest medical facilities are often hours away, making emergency response challenging. Water temperatures can cause rapid dehydration—limit initial soaks to 15-20 minutes.

Be aware of unstable ground around geothermal areas. Test pool bottoms carefully for hot spots before fully entering. Pregnant women and individuals with cardiovascular conditions should consult healthcare providers before visiting.

Environmental Responsibility

These springs remain pristine through visitors' conscientious behaviour. Pack out all rubbish, avoid using soaps or shampoos, and respect the natural environment. Many springs rely on fragile ecosystems that disturbance can permanently damage.

The Westfjords' natural hot springs offer transformative experiences for those willing to venture beyond Iceland's beaten paths. In these remote corners of the island, geothermal waters provide not just physical warmth, but connection to Iceland's geological heritage in settings of profound beauty.

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