Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

The basics

Visitors come to the Secret Lagoon to bathe in its geothermal pool. Its steamy waters are naturally heated to between 100–104˚F (38–40˚C) year-round. Secret Lagoon tours from Reykjavik generally stop at Thingvellir (þingvellir) National Park, located in a rift valley between tectonic plates. Alternatively, you can visit other Golden Circle highlights like Gullfoss waterfall, the Great Geysir geyser, or even a local tomato farm.

Things to know before you go

• There’s only one swimming pool at the Secret Lagoon, so you should make advance reservations if possible.

• Visitor facilities include a snack bar, showers, and changing rooms; towels and swimsuits are available for rent.

• All visitors must shower thoroughly before swimming in the lagoon’s warm water.

How to get there

The Secret Lagoon is located in the small village of Fludir, part of the Golden Circle area of South Iceland. It’s about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. The only way to get there is by road, so those without their own transport can either take a taxi or visit as part of a tour.

When to get there

The Secret Lagoon is open year-round, although opening hours vary with the seasons. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon is the best time to avoid the crowds.

Northern lights and midnight sun

While the geothermal area around the Secret Lagoon is a prime viewing spot for the northern lights (winter) and the midnight sun (summer), the swimming pool itself is only open until 8pm in winter and 10pm in summer. Many tours combine an atmospheric evening swim in the lagoon with a northern lights viewing safari. Others explore the Golden Circle beneath the light of the midnight sun.

Ways to explore

Visitors come to the Secret Lagoon, the oldest natural pool in Iceland, to bathe in its natural geothermal waters, which the earth heats to 100–104˚F (38–40˚C) year-round. While you can certainly visit on your own, Secret Lagoon day tours from Reykjavík are a popular option. A few also make stops at Thingvellir National Park, located in a rift valley between tectonic plates, and other Golden Circle highlights, such as Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir Geothermal Area. Some even visit a local tomato farm.

Accessibility

Secret Lagoon is not wheelchair accessible. There are steps and a railing leading into the pool, which has a gravel-like bottom.

Age limits

Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

What to pack

Swimwear, towel, flip-flops or water shoes, bag for belongings, hair ties, contact lens case

What to wear

Swimsuit, layers for before/after, waterproof footwear, hat for sun protection in the summer

Not allowed

Outside food and drinks, soap/shampoo in the lagoon, diving or jumping, smoking in the pool area

Amenities

Changing rooms, lockers, showers, small café, restrooms, parking, towel rentals

Address

Secret Lagoon is about 65 miles (105 kilometers) east of Reykjavík. It is easiest to get there in your own vehicle (an approximately 90-minute drive) or on a guided tour.

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (aka the Ring Road) out of the city, and then turn east to get on Route 30. There is on-site parking at the lagoon for visitors.

Public transportation

While you can take the Strætó bus from Reykjavík to Flúðir, transferring in Selfoss, service is extremely limited. You’re best off on a guided tour if you don’t have a vehicle.

Best times to visit

Come by in the early morning or late afternoon/evening to avoid the tourist crowds. Evening visits offer potential northern lights viewing in the winter, too.

Best days to visit

Secret Lagoon is open every day, but weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.

Best months to visit

Every season has its perks. Winter means northern lights and the cool contrast of snow, summer brings its midnight sun experience, and the shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds.

Special events

No special events are held at the lagoon, unless you count the northern lights or the midnight sun, both of which are pretty spectacular.