In Iceland, hot baths come in all shapes and sizes: wild springs, municipal pools, or geothermal spas. Here’s how to savor this Nordic ritual.
Which baths to choose?
There are several types of hot baths in Iceland:
Natural springs
They do not always provide a changing area and the basin is rustic. But what a joy to bathe in the great outdoors! They are often inaccessible between November and May.
The baths included with accommodation
Some hotels or guesthouses have hot baths, either shared or private. They are sometimes also open to non-residents.
Municipal pools
In every village, you can find a lap pool at 28-30 °C and one or more hot basins between 36 °C and 42 °C. Locals readily gather there. List at sundlaugar.is.
Geothermal spa complexes
Elegant-designed pools, privileged natural setting… and higher prices. There are about a dozen spread across the country.
What rules should you follow?
In front of all these hot baths, a sign reminds that it is mandatory to shower naked before entering. In the water, a regular swimsuit and swim briefs are acceptable. A swim cap is not mandatory.
Iceland: How to Get There?
Comptoir des Voyages, the reference for immersive travel (agencies in Paris, Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Nantes and Toulouse), offers a circuit that takes you to discover Icelandic baths, with charming accommodations. Its Luciole app brings together guidance, visits, handy addresses and press reviews.
Contact Iceland : 01 85 08 22 96. comptoirdesvoyages.fr
As for flights, Icelandair (icelandair.com) connects Paris and Reykjavik, up to three times daily in peak season.
More information about the country : visiticeland.com.
➤ Article published in GEO HS magazine No. 134, “Great Escapes at a Slow Pace,” August-September 2026.
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