Hvammsvík Natural Hot Springs

Hvammsvík Hot Springs is the #1 place to visit in the world in 2023 according to Timeout 

Visit Hvammsvík Hot Springs, an award-winning retreat located on a historic 1,200-acre private estate. Highlights include eight natural hot springs with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 40°C, situated directly on the Atlantic shoreline where the tides influence the water levels. Guests can experience a unique blend of geothermal and seawater, utilize a natural steam cave, and enjoy the remote beauty of the Hvalfjörður fjord. The site is also home to diverse wildlife, including over 30 bird species and occasional Arctic foxes, all within a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík.

Hvammsvík Hot Springs offers a practical and immersive way to experience Iceland's geothermal culture in a setting that remains in harmony with the natural environment. Located approximately 50 kilometers from the capital, this destination is easily accessible for those on a self-drive itinerary or via scheduled transfers.

The facility features eight outdoor pools constructed from local stone, blending seamlessly into the black sand beaches. The experience is "ever-changing" because several of the pools are partially submerged during high tide, creating a varying fusion of warm geothermal water and cool Atlantic seawater. This natural circulation ensures high water quality and cleanliness without the need for heavy chemical treatments.

The estate is a significant historical landmark, mentioned in the 11th-century Landnáma (Book of Settlements) as a site settled by Vikings over 1,000 years ago. During World War II, it served as a naval headquarters, and the modern facilities are built upon original foundations from that era. Guests have access to modern changing rooms, a geothermal steam cave, and a bistro that serves local specialties like seafood soup.

For travelers visiting between October and April, the remote location—free from city light pollution—provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights directly from the water. Whether you choose to use the indoor facilities or the traditional outdoor showers under the open sky, Hvammsvík provides a factual and serene look at the intersection of Icelandic history and nature.