A scenic lake with warm patches from geothermal springs stretches next to the town of Laugarvatn in southwestern Iceland. These pleasant waters attract swimmers and visitors who set up camp for daytrips to hot springs and an awe-inspiring waterfall. Arrive in the town as part of a tour around the country’s Golden Circle route.
Enjoy the town’s pleasant rural setting along the lake’s western shore. Swim in waters warmed year-round by geothermal springs under the surface. Fish for trout in the neighboring lake of Apavatn.
The countryside consists of charming summer houses amid green meadows and gray mountains. Hike through the expanding man-made forest and set up a picnic. Visit the historic site of Skálholt for its large cathedral and intriguing past.
Make your way east to the gurgling terrain of Geysir Hot Springs, natural fountains of geothermal water. The largest geyser stopped erupting several years ago, but plenty of steamy hot springs and gurgling mud pits remain. Just south of the site lies Strokkur, with water erupting every few minutes to a height of 100 feet (30 meters) in the air. Get your camera ready to take photos at the various stages of the upsurge.
Farther east stands the powerful Gullfoss Waterfall. Approach the roaring flow of water from the River Hvita and see its white foamy water crashing against the rocks below. Learn about the local woman who threatened to throw herself into the chasm in the late 1800s in an effort to preserve the future of this natural formation.
Arrive in Iceland at Keflavik International Airport and drive east for 75 miles (120 kilometers) to reach the town. Located in southwestern Iceland, Laugarvatn is a 1-hour drive east from Reykjavik. Warm sunlight lasts most of the day in summer, while winters are dark and cold.
Something is bubbling beneath the surface at the lakeside retreat of Laugarvatn in the midst of forests, vast plains and a majestic waterfall.
