The largest geothermal pool complex in the country is a place to unwind, socialise with the locals or keep your fitness up.
Laugardalslaug is a geothermal pool complex with three pools of varying temperatures. The outdoor Olympic-sized pool has eight lanes for lap swimming. The indoor Olympic-sized pool has ten lanes and is set at a cooler temperature for durational swimmers, and the smallest and warmest pool is for kids and families to relax in.
There are four hot tubs with temperatures of up to 42 degrees Celsius (108 degrees Fahrenheit), which are also very popular. Unwind with the locals in the largest tub that accommodates up to 50 people. Socialise, play a game of chess, have a business meeting or pre-book a massage to totally indulge and unwind.
Take a dip in the saltwater hot bath, the first of its kind in Iceland. This new tub, built in 2012, is fed by cold water from the sea that is heated to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Relax in the steam bath or in the whirlpool, or watch the kids as they slide down the 86-metre (280-foot) twisting water-slide. Inside the water-slide flashing disco lights alternate with complete darkness.
The facilities in the Laugardalslaug include clean and modern changing rooms and towels and swimsuits are for hire. If you get hungry, pick up a snack or one of Reykavik’s renowned hot dogs from the café.
Icelanders are proud of their clean water in the geothermal springs and it is important to follow pool etiquette, so be sure to shower with soap before entering.
Laugardalslaug is located in the Laugardalslaug Valley, a recreational area abundant with activities. Combine your visit to the baths with a walk around the Botanical Garden to see a range of Arctic flowers. Visit the nearby Zoo and Family Park and watch the kids as they run around on the all-seasons playground. Rent a bike or don your jogging shoes and explore the paths through the valley, or hire some ice-skates and practice your skating on the indoor rink.
Laugardalslaug is open daily until late in the evenings. It is easily accessible by bus and is a 20-minute walk from the city centre.
