Iceland is a land of fire and ice – and water. Thanks to abundant geothermal energy beneath its crust, the country is dotted with natural hot springs, steamy lagoons, and cozy public pools. Exploring these geothermal spas, rustic hot pots, and town swimming pools is a must for any visitor. Even better, you can turn your hunt for hot springs into a memorable road trip. Renting a car in Iceland (preferably with a reliable local company like Zero Car Rental) gives you the freedom to chart your own soaking itinerary – from famous spas near Reykjavik to hidden hot tubs in the remote Westfjords. Before you grab your towel and hit the road, here’s an ultimate guide to Iceland’s spas, hot pots, and pools – by type, and with driving tips, local insights, and Google Map links included. Let’s dive in!Geothermal Spas and Lagoons in IcelandArguably Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon is a surreal blue oasis between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík. Its warm waters (~38°C year-round) are rich in silica and minerals that do wonders for the skin. You can float with a silica mud mask on, enjoy a waterfall massage, or sip a drink from the swim-up bar as steam rises around you. The lava field setting makes it feel otherworldly. No wonder National Geographic named Blue Lagoon one of the 25 wonders of the world. Driving: Blue Lagoon is just a 20-minute drive from KEF Airport (and ~30 minutes from Reykjavík) – many travelers stop here straight after landing or on the way to the airport. (Google Maps: Blue Lagoon). Tip: Pre-book your entry well in advance (it’s popular!), and don’t skip the mandatory shower before entering the water (more on hot spring etiquette later).Sky Lagoon (Kópavogur, Capital Area) – Opened in 2021 only 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon has quickly become a favorite luxury spa. It boasts a 70-meter infinity-edge pool merging with the North Atlantic, giving sweeping ocean and mountain views. The water here is clear and deep, reflecting the sky – very Instagrammable at sunset. Sky Lagoon’s signature is the 7-step “Ritual”, which guides you from a warm soak through a cold plunge, sauna with a massive picture window, fog-mist room, mineral salt scrub, and back to the lagoon for utter relaxation. With turf-roofed buildings and a lava rock setting, Sky Lagoon blends modern wellness with Icelandic bathing culture. (Google Maps: Sky Lagoon)Secret Lagoon – Gamla Laugin (Flúðir, South Iceland) – Don’t let the name fool you; the Secret Lagoon isn’t so secret anymore, but it retains a rustic charm. This natural geothermal pool in the small village of Flúðir is actually the oldest swimming pool in Iceland (built in 1891!) Today it’s a simple, warm lagoon surrounded by grassy moss and steam vents. A wooden boardwalk lets you explore little bubbling hot springs and even a tiny geyser that erupts every few minutes nearby. The facilities are modest but modern (showers, a small bar/café). Driving: About 1.5 hours from Reykjavík, just off the Golden Circle route – a perfect relaxing stop after touring Gullfoss and Geysir. (Google Maps: Secret Lagoon)Mývatn Nature Baths (North Iceland) – Often called “the Blue Lagoon of the North,” this tranquil spa in the Mývatn region offers the same milky-blue geothermal water without the crowds. The mineral-rich waters are drawn from underground and mixed to a comfortable ~36–40°C, all while you soak up views of volcanic craters and the Lake Mývatn area. In summer, enjoy the late sunset; in winter, you might catch the Northern Lights while bathing! It’s a favorite among those driving the Diamond Circle or Ring Road in North Iceland. (Google Maps: Mývatn Nature Baths)Laugarvatn Fontana (Golden Circle) – A spa built on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, Fontana combines geothermal pools, steam baths, and a lakeside sauna. What’s special here is the geothermal bakery: locals bake rye bread by burying dough in the hot sand near the lake. Visitors can watch (and taste) this delicious dark rye bread, fresh from the hot grounds! Fontana’s pools range from hot tubs to a small lake beach where you can take a cold plunge. It’s conveniently located on the Golden Circle route (between Þingvellir and Gullfoss), making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing. (Google Maps: Laugarvatn Fontana)Krauma (West Iceland) – At Krauma Spa, you bathe in the pure waters of Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Krauma is fed by Deildartunguhver, a hot spring that pumps out 180 liters of boiling water per second! The scalding water is mixed with cool glacial water to fill Krauma’s five outdoor baths at perfect bathing temperature (around 37–40°C). There’s also a cold plunge pool, steam baths, and a relaxation room with a fireplace. Situated in Reykholt (about 1hr 20min drive from Reykjavík), Krauma offers an intimate, boutique spa experience with a great view of the surrounding farmlands. It’s also a prime spot for winter travelers to soak under the stars and possibly see the northern lights. (Google Maps: Krauma Baths)GeoSea Sea Baths (Húsavík, North Coast) – GeoSea is a unique geothermal seawater spa perched on a cliff in Húsavík. Here, geothermal heat warms up mineral-rich seawater piped from boreholes, so you’re soaking in salty water with healing properties. The design features infinity-edge pools that blend into the Arctic Ocean horizon. On a clear day, you can gaze over Skjálfandi Bay and even spot whales while you relax – Húsavík is, after all, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. GeoSea opened in 2018 and quickly became a highlight for those traveling the north. The facility has modern changing rooms and a bistro on site. Sunset or twilight soaking here, with the sound of the ocean below, is pure magic. (Google Maps: GeoSea Baths)Vök Baths (Egilsstaðir, East Iceland) – The crown jewel of East Iceland’s spa scene, Vök Baths offers something truly special: floating pools in a lake. Located in Lake Urriðavatn near Egilsstaðir, Vök features two big geothermal pools that are literally built offshore, floating on the lake’s surface! Step into the warm pools from a walkway and enjoy 360° views of the lake and surrounding forest. There are also on-shore hot pools, a cold mist tunnel, and a lakeside sauna. Don’t miss the tea bar, where they brew herbal teas using the hot spring water (try the local spruce or birch tea). Vök Baths are a perfect relaxation stop if you’re driving through the beautiful but less-traveled East Fjords region. (Google Maps: Vök Baths)Forest Lagoon (Skógarböðin, Akureyri) – Nestled in a forest on a hillside above Akureyri, the brand-new Forest Lagoon (opened 2022) lets you soak in warm pools among the trees. This spa has two infinity pools overlooking Eyjafjörður fjord and the town, plus a cold plunge, sauna, and a swim-up bar – all surrounded by birch and pine woodsiceland-life.com. In winter, fairy lights twinkle in the trees; in summer, the late northern sun filters through the leaves as you bathe. The drive is just 5 minutes from Akureyri center (North Iceland’s largest town), yet the setting feels peaceful and natural. If you’re doing a ring road trip, don’t skip this relaxing detour to experience a thermal bath in a woodland setting – a rarity in Iceland. (Google Maps: Forest Lagoon)Hvammsvík Hot Springs (Hvalfjörður, West Iceland) – One of Iceland’s latest geothermal retreats, Hvammsvík opened in 2022 on the shores of Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord) about 45 minutes from Reykjavíkspaandbeautytoday.com. This private spa blends into nature – it features eight natural hot pools of varying temperatures, snuggled right into the rocky intertidal zone of the fjord. When the tide is high, some pools actually mix with cool seawater, giving a range of hot, warm, and even cool baths to dip between. The views of the fjord’s mountains and wide skies are phenomenal, and in winter you might catch the northern lights while soaking herespaandbeautytoday.com. Hvammsvík also offers ocean swimming (for the brave), paddle-boarding, and even the occasional cold-water therapy session. On site you’ll find a chic changing facility, steam room, and a restaurant serving local seafood soup and drinks. It’s an easy drive from the city, yet feels remote and wild. (Google Maps: Hvammsvik Hot Springs)Bjórböðin Beer Spa (Árskógssandur, North Iceland) – Fancy a pint and a soak? At Iceland’s only beer spa, you can literally bathe in a tub of warm beer! Bjórböðin (near the Kaldi brewery in Árskógssandur, a 30-min drive from Akureyri) offers wooden hot tubs filled with a mix of young beer, water, hops and yeast. The yeasty brew is said to be great for your skin and hair. And don’t worry – it doesn’t smell bad, it’s quite pleasant! Each tub has a beer tap alongside, so you can pour yourself an ice cold craft beer to drink while you soak. The bath beer isn’t carbonated and you won’t get drunk from absorbing it – but you’ll definitely feel rejuvenated (and perhaps a bit giggly) after 25 minutes in the tub. Afterwards, you relax in a dry room to let the beer’s vitamins absorb before rinsing off. This quirky spa also has outdoor hot tubs (filled with normal water) overlooking the fjord. It’s a must-stop for beer lovers road-tripping the north. (Google Maps: Bjórböðin Beer Spa)(More Notable Spas: Other honorable mentions include the Retreat Spa at Blue Lagoon – an ultra-luxurious private spa within Blue Lagoon for those splurging – and the Húsafell Canyon Baths (West Iceland), a pair of stone hot pools in a rugged canyon near Húsafell. Each Icelandic spa has its unique twist, but all promise relaxation fueled by the earth’s geothermal heat.)Natural Hot Springs and “Hot Pots”Not all of Iceland’s hot springs come with changing rooms and cafes – many of the most memorable geothermal bathing spots are completely natural. Scattered around the countryside, often in stunning landscapes, you’ll find these so-called “hot pots” ranging from rock pools by rivers to old concrete tubs in the middle of nowhere. Discovering a wild hot spring and having it all to yourself is an adventure in itself (just remember to respect nature and leave no trace). Here are some of the best natural hot springs you can drive or hike to:In the heart of Iceland’s remote Highlands, Landmannalaugar is famed for its rainbow-colored mountains – and yes, there is a hot spring where weary hikers soak! It’s essentially a hot river that mixes with a colder stream, forming a perfect bathing brook in a grassy meadow. There’s a boardwalk and a simple open-air changing platform, but this bath is 100% natural (no concrete). On a summer day, sitting in Landmannalaugar’s warm water with mountains all around is blissful. The water temperature varies by spot (hotter near where the spring enters ~50°C, cooler downstream). Driving: You must have a 4x4 to reach Landmannalaugar; it’s accessible via the Fjallabak Highland routes (F208/F224) typically in summer only. It’s a rough ride through volcanic deserts and some rivers – truly part of the adventure. (Google Maps: Landmannalaugar)Reykjadalur “Hot River” (Hveragerði, South) – Just 45 km east of Reykjavík lies Reykjadalur, meaning “Steam Valley.” Here you can hike to a hot river! A well-marked trail (~3 km each way) leads you through a geothermal valley of fumaroles and mud pools to a spot where a boiling hot spring merges with a cold creek, creating idyllic bathing pools in the streambed. Wooden boardwalks and screens are set up along the Reykjadalur River so you can change and relax in the warm water. It’s like nature’s hot tub, with temperatures around 37–40°C in the best spots. Bathers often bring a beverage and soak surrounded by green hills and steam vents – an unforgettable outdoor spa experience (for free!). Driving: It’s about 40 minutes from Reykjavík to the trailhead parking above Hveragerði town. From there, plan for 45–60 minutes of hiking (moderate effort, some hills). (Google Maps: Reykjadalur Hot Springs Parking)Seljavallalaug Pool (South Coast) – Tucked in a mountainside valley between Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Seljavallalaug is an abandoned swimming pool that’s become a traveler favorite. Built in 1923, this 25-meter concrete pool is nestled in a narrow valley, with a mossy cliff and a small river beside it. No staff or fees – just a quiet, lukewarm pool filled by a natural hot spring trickle (water temp ~20–30°C, so more warm than hot). Swimming here, surrounded by nature, feels almost spiritual. The white changing house is dilapidated but still provides shelter to change. Driving/Hiking: From the Ring Road near Skógafoss, turn toward Seljavellir farm (road 242) and park at the end. A 10–15 minute easy walk along the river brings you to the pool. (Google Maps: Seljavallalaug)Hrunalaug (Flúðir, South) – A true hidden gem, Hrunalaug is a tiny rustic hot pot on a farm near Flúðir (not far from the Secret Lagoon). Tucked below a grassy hill, you’ll find a stone-and-concrete tub that fits maybe 3–5 people, fed by a delightfully hot spring. There’s also a little old shed that acts as a changing room. The water is clean and very warm (~40°C). It’s privately owned land, but the farmer has traditionally allowed public access (with a small honesty box for donations). Bathing under the open sky in this sheep-country setting is as quaint as it gets. Driving: Roughly 1.5 hours from Reykjavík; a short drive from Flúðir via road 344. The path from parking to the pools is just a couple minutes. Arrive early or off-peak to avoid a crowd, since it’s very small. (Google Maps: Hrunalaug Hot Spring)Westfjords Hot Pots (Northwest) – The Westfjords region is a hot-spring lover’s paradise, with numerous little pools in dramatic seaside locations. Notable ones include: Drangsnes Hot Pots – three small hot tubs set out on the seaside in Drangsnes village, always open and free (the town kindly heats and maintains them; there’s a changing shelter by the road). Imagine soaking in a tub by the ocean as the Arctic waves crash just meters away! Hellulaug – a rock-lined pool by the shore near Flókalundur in the southern Westfjords. It’s right below the road, overlooking a tranquil bay; no changing room, but free and fantastic. Reykjafjarðarlaug – a remote pool in Reykjafjörður (Arnarfjörður area) with an adjacent old concrete pool and a natural hot pot nearby, all surrounded by hills (accessible in summer). And perhaps king of them all: Krossneslaug – a 1950s-built swimming pool literally at the edge of the sea in far-north Strandir. Here, you can float in warm water while looking out at the Arctic Ocean and midnight sun. It’s at the end of one of Iceland’s loneliest roads, making it a pilgrimage of sorts for hot-pot enthusiasts. As one visitor described it, “a magically placed hot pool, right on the edge of the sea, discovered at the end of a long secluded road in the Westfjords”. If you venture to Krossneslaug, you truly earn your hot soak! (Google Maps: Krossneslaug, Hellulaug, Drangsnes Hot Pots, etc.)Highland Hot Springs – Hveravellir & Strútslaug – If you’re driving Kjölur (F35), the gravel highland route between Gullfoss and North Iceland, plan a stop at Hveravellir. This nature reserve sits between two glaciers and boasts a classic stone-lined hot pool with heavenly views of the barren interior. The pool at Hveravellir is fed by natural 80–100°C springs cooled by a stream, ending up around ~40°C for bathers. Soaking here, surrounded by steaming fumaroles and distant icecaps, feels like visiting a frontier spa. There’s a mountain hut, small cafe and campsite there too. Another truly remote highland spring is Strútslaug, in the south Highlands – reachable by a long hike or rough 4x4 track near Hrífunes, this wild hot pool in a meadow is as off-grid as it gets (for experienced adventurers only). The water is clear and pleasantly hot – a reward for those who make the trek. (Google Maps: Hveravellir)North Iceland & East Iceland Hot Springs – Some other natural spots to consider: Grettislaug – a pair of stone hot pools by the sea in North Iceland’s Skagafjörður, named after saga hero Grettir. After driving a bumpy road to the farm Reykir, you can soak in Grettir’s pool with views of the Drangey island. A small fee is charged for upkeep, but the experience – hot water, ocean breeze, saga legends – is worth it. In the East, Laugavallalaug is a quirky hot spring waterfall in a remote valley north of Vatnajökull. Warm water pours over a cliff into a shallow natural pool – yes, a hot shower in the wild! It requires a 4x4 and hiking to reach, but is a favorite of those who love wild camping experiences. There’s also Hoffell Hot Tubs near Höfn on the southeast coast – five tubs by a hillside with glacier views (small entry fee, at Hoffell Guesthouse), great to soothe muscles after glacier hiking. In Reykjanes (the peninsula) near Reykjavík, most of the hot springs are too hot for bathing – except one fun exception: Kvika Footbath in Seltjarnarnes, which is literally a little hot tub for your feet by the seaside walking path – popular for locals to dip their toes while watching sunsets. Natural Hot Spring Tips: Many wild hot pots are on private land or nature reserves; always follow any posted rules and pay respect to the landowners’ privacy. Pack a towel and maybe a bag for wet bathing suits – facilities are often nonexistent. Be cautious about water temperature – test before fully plunging in (some springs can be near boiling at the source!). It’s wise to wear water shoes or sandals at undeveloped springs to avoid slipping or scalding. And as always, carry out all your trash. These geothermal gifts are fragile and need our care.Geothermal Swimming Pools (Public Pools in Towns)After long days driving or hiking, one of the best ways to unwind in Iceland is like the locals do: at the neighborhood swimming pool. Every town and many villages have a public geothermal pool, heated with natural hot water. These facilities typically include an outdoor pool for laps, several “hot pots” (hot tubs of varying temperatures, often 38–42°C) for soaking, plus amenities like saunas, water slides, and kiddie pools. Entry is cheap (usually $5–$10) and the experience is authentically Icelandic – you’ll find locals of all ages socializing in the hot tubs every day, come rain or shine. In fact, Icelanders joke that more politics is discussed in the hot tubs than in the parliament!.Here are some public pools especially worth visiting on your travels:The stunning infinity-edge view from Hofsós Swimming Pool in North Iceland, overlooking Skagafjörður fjord. Hofsós Sundlaug (North Iceland) – This small village pool has arguably the most scenic view of any pool in Iceland. Built on a hillside above the sea, Hofsós pool appears to merge into the ocean, like an infinity pool overlooking the fjord and the island of Drangey. While modest in size (25m long), it’s an utterly tranquil spot to swim with a panoramic view of Skagafjörður’s mountains and calm blue waters. There’s a hot tub that shares the same view – pure bliss! Hofsós pool has modern facilities and is open in summer (and limited winter hours). If you’re driving the Tröllaskagi or heading to Akureyri from the west, make a detour to soak in this postcard-perfect setting. (Google Maps: Hofsós Swimming Pool)Laugardalslaug (Reykjavík) – Iceland’s largest municipal pool, located in the Laugardalur recreation area of Reykjavík. Laugardalslaug has it all: an Olympic-size lap pool, multiple hot tubs (with different temperatures and even a saltwater tub), a steam room, and a big water slide. There’s an indoor pool and kiddie pool too. It’s a hub of local life – you’ll see children’s swim lessons, adults doing aqua-jogging, and groups of friends chatting in the hot pots. Driving: ~10 minutes from downtown (ample parking). For visitors, it’s a great introduction to Iceland’s pool culture; just remember to shower naked and thoroughly before entering (yes, it’s required!). The locker rooms even provide soap. Don’t be shy – locals are very used to it, and it keeps the pools super clean since no chemicals are in the water. If you want to strike up conversation with Icelanders, this is the place – relaxing in a 40°C hot tub tends to make everyone chatty. Topics range from politics to soccer to the weather (and you’ll definitely hear plenty about the weather!). (More on: Laugardalslaug)Sundhöllin (Downtown Reykjavík) – The city’s oldest pool, opened in 1937, Sundhöllin is an architectural gem designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Recently renovated, it blends retro charm with modern additions. The main pool is indoors in a gorgeous high-ceilinged hall, while a rooftop area was added with big outdoor hot tubs, a shallow relaxation pool, and a cold plunge. Sundhöllin’s location is superb – right in the city center (just off Laugavegur shopping street), so it’s easy to walk to after a day of sightseeing. Imagine stepping from chilly air into a warm geothermal pool as church bells chime nearby. Don’t miss: the view from the rooftop hot tub, where you can see the skyline of Reykjavík while soaking. It’s open until late evening, perfect for unwinding after dinner. (Google Maps: Sundhöllin Reykjavik)Vesturbæjarlaug (Reykjavík West Side) – A favorite among locals in Reykjavík’s West Town neighborhood. Vesturbæjarlaug is smaller and homier than Laugardalslaug, but beloved for its friendly atmosphere. It has an outdoor pool, several hot tubs (one kept at a very hot 43°C for the serious soakers), a steam room, and even a jacuzzi with massage jets. There’s a popular cafe next door (Kaffi Vest) for post-swim snacks – you’ll see students and families gathering here. If you’re staying in downtown, it’s just a 20–30 minute walk (or 5-min drive) to Vesturbæjarlaug. It’s worth a visit to experience the communal vibe – you might end up in conversation with an Icelandic grandpa about the latest volcanic eruption or get travel tips from a local who’s curious about your trip. (Google Maps: Vesturbæjarlaug)Akureyri Swimming Pool (Akureyrarlaug) – The largest pool complex outside the capital, Akureyri’s town pool is fantastic, especially for families. It features two big slides that kids (and adults) love, a splash pool, lap pool, and an array of hot tubs including one with bubble massage and another with colored lighting. There’s also a sauna and indoor pools for colder days. The facility is beautifully kept and set against a backdrop of Akureyri’s hills. After a day exploring North Iceland – maybe whale watching or driving to waterfalls – Akureyrarlaug is the perfect place to relax and play. In winter, sitting in a 40°C hot tub here while it snows is a true Arctic delight. (Google Maps: Akureyri Sundlaug)Krossneslaug (Strandir, Westfjords) – Yes, we mentioned this gem in the hot pots section, but it doubles as a “public pool” as well. Krossneslaug has basic but sufficient facilities (a changing room and showers) and is maintained for visitors, despite its extremely remote location. Swimming actual laps here might be tough (sheep may be watching you curiously from the hillside!), but it’s an official pool where locals once taught their kids to swim. If you make it down that bumpy Strandir road to Krossneslaug, consider it a merit badge in adventure. And on a clear day, floating on your back in this pool, you’ll see the vast ocean and feel at the edge of the world – an experience no fancy spa can replicate. (Google Maps: Krossneslaug)Other Noteworthy Pools: Virtually every town has a great pool. In the Westfjords, Ísafjörður’s pool is a nice spot to meet locals (and has an indoor water slide through a shark’s mouth!). In the East, Egilsstaðir has a modern pool that’s very pleasant after long drives between fjords. Höfn in the southeast and Selfoss in the south each have wonderful facilities too. Wherever you roam, keep an eye out for the blue-and-white sign reading “Sundlaug” – it means a warm welcome to swim awaits. Don’t forget your swimsuit!Pool Etiquette & Tips: Icelandic pools are generally super clean and well-maintained – to keep them that way, all guests must shower without swimsuits (yes, naked) and wash thoroughly with soap before entering the water. It might feel awkward at first if you’re not used to communal changing rooms, but rest assured, locals don’t think twice about it. Most pools have private shower stalls or curtains if you’re shy. Also, no shoes in locker rooms (leave them on the racks). Children under 6 are usually required to wear inflatable arm floats (provided free) in the pools. One more thing – while many upscale lagoons have swim-up bars, your regular town pools do not allow drinks in the water (and definitely no glass!). The social buzz comes purely from conversation. Lastly, if you’re a tattoo enthusiast, know that some pools ask you to cover large tattoos with a rashguard or bandage – a leftover rule from earlier times (concerns about ink hygiene) that’s slowly fading. When in doubt, just ask the pool attendant for guidance.Practical Advice for Your Hot Springs Road TripA few final pointers will help you make the most of Iceland’s hot water bounty by car:Plan Your Route: Many of these spas and hot pots are scattered around the Ring Road (Route 1) or slightly off it. If doing a full circle of Iceland, you can hit a spa or pool in each region – e.g. Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík, Fontana en route to the Golden Circle, Myvatn Baths in the north, Vök Baths in the east, etc. Check out Zero’s 14-day Ring Road itinerary for ideas. If you have less time, consider focusing on one area (the South Coast alone offers several hot springs and pools). A car rental in Iceland gives you flexibility to chase these spots on your schedule – whether that means an early-morning dip to beat crowds or a spontaneous detour because you saw a steam sign on a map.Google Maps & GPS: We’ve provided Google Map links for many locations – use them! Some hot springs are tucked away on gravel backroads or require short hikes. Google Maps is generally accurate for known spots, but for very hidden pools, you might want to cross-reference with guidebooks or local advice. Icelandic place names can be tricky; sometimes searching the English nickname (e.g. “Secret Lagoon” or “Beer Spa”) works better than Icelandic. A paper map or offline map can be handy in remote areas with spotty signal.Safety First: Always check road conditions if you’re venturing to remote pools like those in the highlands or far-flung fjords. Roads marked “F” require 4x4 vehicles, do not attempt these in a normal car. In winter, many rural pools (and highland routes like to Landmannalaugar or Hveravellir) are closed or inaccessible. Follow weather reports (vedur.is) and road updates (road.is) – a sudden storm can make travel hazardous. That said, don’t be afraid to explore – just be prepared. Zero Car Rental provides 4x4 options and even gives tips for navigating rough roads, so you can reach those off-beat hot pots confidently.What to Pack: Besides the obvious swimwear and towel, consider packing flip-flops or water shoes (useful on muddy paths or very hot pool bottoms), a plastic bag for wet clothes, and maybe a spare towel or quick-dry travel towel. In cooler seasons, having a cozy hat to put on after swimming (when your hair is wet) helps keep you warm. Some remote hot springs might attract a few midges or flies in summer (looking at you, Mývatn area) – a travel-size bug repellent can be useful, though the annoyance is usually minor. And if you plan to take photos, waterproof cases or dry bags will protect your tech while you soak.Etiquette & Culture: As mentioned, respect the shower rules – they are strictly enforced in local pools (expect a lifeguard whistle or a polite reminder if you try to skip). At natural hot springs, there’s often an unspoken code: keep noise down, share space if others arrive (small pools = limited room), and sometimes even take turns if it’s really tiny. Some hot pots in Iceland can only fit 2–3 people; if you stumble on one and someone’s already in it, it’s courteous to say hello and maybe gauge if they’re wrapping up soon, or come back later. Most travelers are friendly and happy to alternate so everyone gets a chance. Leave it cleaner than you found it – that means picking up any trash (even if it isn’t yours). The only thing you should leave in a hot spring is perhaps a few strands of hair.Enjoy the Geothermal Variety: From luxe spas to wild rivers, Iceland offers a spectrum of hot-water experiences. Locals truly embrace this – soaking in geothermal water is a way of life here. It’s said that soaking in hot springs has health benefits like improving circulation and reducing stress. Whether or not that’s scientifically proven, you’ll almost certainly feel rejuvenated after a good soak. And you’ll have experienced a piece of Icelandic culture that is as important as the waterfalls and glaciers. As one guidebook put it, “sitting in a hot pot, with cold wind on your face and warm water on your skin, you understand Icelandic happiness.”Final ThoughtsThere you have it – a comprehensive tour of Iceland’s spas, hot pots, and pools to fill your itinerary with relaxation. The only thing left is to get out there and start exploring them! With a trusty rental car, you can hop from one geothermal paradise to the next, whether it’s a famous lagoon or a secret tub on a mountain side. Every soak becomes a story – perhaps the time it started snowing while you lounged in 40°C water, or when you met an Icelandic family who shared travel tips in a hot tub, or that midnight dip under the midnight sun.Remember, the journey is half the fun: enjoy the drives between these locations as you weave through Iceland’s spectacular landscapes. And whenever you feel road-weary, you’re never far from a hot pool to recharge in. Zero Car Rental can set you up with the wheels and confidence you need – being a local company, they know all about Iceland’s hidden gems and how to reach them. In fact, don’t be surprised if the Zero team shares their own favorite hot spring recommendations when you pick up your car.So pack your swimsuit, towel, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re chasing the well-known geothermal spas or seeking out rustic hot pots off the beaten path, Iceland offers a hot soak for every taste. Happy hot-pot hunting, and happy driving!
