Natural Hot Springs in North Iceland: A Complete Guide

There’s a reason the northern half of Iceland stays quieter than the Golden Circle: the hot springs here demand a little more effort to reach, and that’s exactly why they’re worth it. While the Blue Lagoon grabs the headlines, North Iceland hides geothermal wonders that range from the polished Mývatn Nature Baths to wild pools you can soak in for free.

Forest Lagoon entry: 6,590 ISK ·
Drangsnes hot tubs: free ·
Hauganes hot springs: 1,000 ISK ·
Drangsnes temperature: 38–42°C

The pattern: commercial baths charge a premium for facilities, while natural pools offer the cheapest and most memorable experience.

Are there hot springs in northern Iceland?

Yes—northern Iceland is dotted with geothermal bathing spots, from commercial spa complexes to rustic natural pools. The region’s volcanic activity heats underground water, which surfaces in streams, riverbanks, and constructed baths.

List of northern Iceland hot springs

• Mývatn Nature Baths – commercial, near Lake Mývatn, 6,200 ISK (estimate, Guide to Iceland)
• Forest Lagoon – commercial, in Akureyri, 6,590 ISK (Runaway Traveller)
• Grettislaug – natural pool, Reykir, free (donation expected) (Guide to Iceland)
• Jarlslaug – natural pool, Reykir, free (donation expected) (Guide to Iceland)
• Hauganes hot springs – pay pool in Eyjafjörður, 1,000 ISK (Epic Iceland)

The implication: North Iceland offers a wide price spectrum, from free wild pools to well-kept commercial baths. The trade-off is usually distance and facilities.

Mývatn Nature Baths

Often called the “Blue Lagoon of the North,” Mývatn Nature Baths is the most recognized geothermal spa in the region. Its milky blue waters average 36–40°C and are rich in minerals. The site includes a café, changing rooms, and a sauna (Guide to Iceland). Unlike the Blue Lagoon, the water here is naturally sourced from the geothermal area around Lake Mývatn. Travelers looking for a less crowded experience often prefer it.

Grettislaug and Jarlslaug

These two natural pools sit in the Skagafjörður region near the village of Reykir. They are man-maintained but fed by natural geothermal springs. Grettislaug, named after the outlaw Grettir, is the larger of the two. Both are free to use, though a small donation is appreciated (Guide to Iceland). No changing facilities are available, so come prepared.

Forest Lagoon (near Akureyri)

Opened in 2021, Forest Lagoon sits in the woods above Akureyri. It’s a modern geothermal bath with a pool temperature of 38–40°C, a sauna, and a bar. At 6,590 ISK, it costs slightly more than Mývatn but offers a serene forest setting (Runaway Traveller). It’s the newest addition to North Iceland’s commercial bath scene.

Are Iceland hot springs natural?

The answer depends on what you mean by “natural.” Many commercial baths are man-made pools filled with geothermal water. But true natural hot springs—water that bubbles up from the earth without human construction—also exist across the country.

What makes a hot spring natural?

A natural hot spring occurs when groundwater is heated by volcanic activity and rises to the surface. In Iceland, the entire island sits atop a geothermal hotspot, so this happens everywhere. Pools like Reykjadalur, Seljavallalaug, and Grettislaug are genuine natural hot springs, though some have been augmented with stone walls or steps (Guide to Iceland).

Commercial vs natural baths

Commercial baths such as Mývatn Nature Baths and Forest Lagoon are constructed pools that use natural geothermal water. The water itself is natural, but the setting is built. In contrast, Grettislaug is a pool that was originally a natural hot spring, later modified for comfort. The difference is often aesthetic: commercial sites offer changing rooms, showers, and food, while natural pools require a hike and self-sufficiency (Epic Iceland).

Examples: Blue Lagoon (man-made) vs Mývatn (natural)

The Blue Lagoon is entirely man-made—it’s a runoff pool from the Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Mývatn Nature Baths, by contrast, uses water directly from the Bjarnarflag geothermal field. So while both are commercial, Mývatn is closer to a natural experience (Guide to Iceland).

The pattern: the word “natural” in marketing often means “geothermal water,” not “untouched pool.” For a truly wild soak, head to the free pools.

Are there any free hot springs in Iceland?

Yes—and several are in or near North Iceland. Free hot springs are typically remote, require a short hike, and lack facilities. They offer the most authentic experience.

List of free hot springs

• Grettislaug (Reykir, Skagafjörður) – free, donation suggested (Guide to Iceland)
• Jarlslaug (Reykir) – free, adjacent to Grettislaug (Guide to Iceland)
• Drangsnes hot tubs (Westfjords, not north but often visited) – free, three tubs by the sea (Guide to Iceland)
• Fosslaug (North Iceland?) – free, natural pool (Epic Iceland)
• Reykjadalur (South Iceland, but popular) – free except parking (Guide to Iceland)

Tips for finding free pools

Use a reliable geothermal pools map and check local tourism sites. Many free pools are marked only on hiking maps. Ask at guesthouses—locals often know the best spots.

Safety considerations

Free pools have variable temperatures. Test the water before entering. Never dive into unknown depths. Bring a towel and change of clothes, as few have shelters (Guide to Iceland).

The catch: free pools give you the raw geothermal experience without the price tag, but you trade facilities for authenticity.

Is Vök Baths worth it?

Vök Baths is located in East Iceland, not North Iceland, but it’s part of the broader Icelandic hot spring conversation. It’s a “floating” geothermal spa built on a lake, with a bar and restaurant.

Facilities at Vök Baths

Vök offers infinity pools overlooking Lake Urriðavatn, a sauna, and a floating bar. The water temperature is about 38°C. Changing rooms and showers are included (Well and Good Travel).

Price and value vs other baths

Entry costs around 5,900 ISK, comparable to Mývatn. However, Vök’s unique floating design and lake setting provide a different atmosphere. For a traveler focusing on North Iceland, the detour to Vök adds 3–4 hours of driving.

Location in East Iceland

Vök is near Egilsstaðir, about 4 hours from Akureyri by car. It’s a beautiful spot if you’re on a ring-road trip, but not a quick side trip from the north.

The trade-off: Vök shines as a standalone destination, but for those specifically exploring north Iceland’s hot springs, it’s a stretch. Stick to Mývatn or Forest Lagoon for convenience.

Can you go in Iceland hot springs when pregnant?

Medical advice is consistent: avoid raising core body temperature above 38°C for more than 10 minutes. Many Icelandic hot springs, especially commercial ones, monitor temperature and offer cooler zones.

General advice for pregnancy and hot springs

Pregnant women should limit soak time to 10–15 minutes in water above 38°C. If you feel dizzy or overheated, get out immediately (Well and Good Travel).

Safe temperature limits

Most commercial baths in Iceland are set between 36°C and 40°C. The lower end is generally safe for short sessions. Free pools can fluctuate widely—test before entering.

Icelandic recommendations

Icelandic health authorities advise caution but do not outright ban hot spring use during pregnancy. Many local women use the pools in moderation. Always consult your doctor (Guide to Iceland).

The pattern: the risk is real but manageable. If you’re pregnant, choose controlled commercial baths with clear temperature signs and cool-off areas.

Comparison of North Iceland Hot Springs

Four major options, one pattern: price rises with facilities, but natural pools offer the cheapest and most memorable experience.

Pros and Cons of Natural vs Commercial Hot Springs

Confirmed facts vs what’s unclear

Based on available research, some claims are solid, while others require caution.

Quotes from the experts

“The natural geothermal pools at Reykir, like Grettislaug and Jarlslaug, offer a truly authentic experience. They are maintained by local volunteers and are free to use.”

— North Iceland Tourism Office (Guide to Iceland)

“Mývatn Nature Baths is a good alternative to the Blue Lagoon, especially if you’re touring northern Iceland. The water feels just as soft, and the setting is more natural.”

— Worlderingaround.com travel blog (Guide to Iceland)

Summary

North Iceland delivers a genuine geothermal bathing scene that rewards those who venture beyond the Blue Lagoon. Whether you choose the polished experience of Mývatn Nature Baths or the rustic freedom of Grettislaug, the region offers something for every budget and taste. For the budget-conscious traveler, the free pools can’t be beaten—but know that comfort and safety come with a price.

Related coverage: Icelands geothermal pools and springs fördjupar bilden av Geothermal Springs and Pools Iceland: Best + Map Guide.

Frequently asked questions