Flow
180 L/sec
Highest flow rate of any hot spring in Europe
Deildartunguhver: Europe's Most Powerful Hot Spring
Europe's most powerful hot spring, producing 180 liters per second of near-boiling water in West Iceland.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
Reykholt area
West Iceland • Near Krauma spa
Deildartunguhver is Europe's most powerful hot spring, erupting with 180 liters of 97°C water every second from deep within the earth. Located in the Borgarfjörður area of West Iceland near the historic village of Reykholt, this extraordinary geothermal source has been harnessed to heat homes in Borgarnes and Akranes through one of the longest hot water pipelines in Iceland. The spring area features a walkway for safe viewing of the billowing steam and surging water. The adjacent Krauma spa uses this same water, cooled to bathing temperature, for its geothermal pools.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
DO NOT touch the water — it is near boiling at 97°C. Stay on marked paths and behind barriers at all times.
Sources to check
Temperature
97°C
Near-boiling — DO NOT touch the water
Rank
Europe's most powerful
Highest flow rate of any European hot spring
What to Expect
Immense Geothermal Power
Watch 180 liters per second of 97°C water surge from the earth -- the highest flow rate of any hot spring in Europe
Billowing Steam
Dramatic clouds of steam rising from the spring, especially on cold winter days when the temperature contrast is greatest
Safe Viewing Walkway
A boardwalk with barriers and interpretive signs allows close but safe observation. Bring a camera and waterproof jacket for steam spray
Krauma Spa Next Door
Bathe in water from this spring at the adjacent Krauma spa (from ~4,900 ISK). Six pools range from 5°C to 40°C, plus two steam rooms
Rare Fern Habitat
The geothermal warmth creates a microclimate where rare ferns thrive year-round, including species not found elsewhere in Iceland
Reykholt Heritage
5-minute drive to the village of Reykholt, home of saga writer Snorri Sturluson. Visit the medieval hot pool Snorralaug nearby
Getting There
Deildartunguhver is located along Route 50 in the Borgarfjörður valley, about 100 km (1.5 hours) north of Reykjavík. From Reykjavík, take Route 1 north through the Hvalfjörður tunnel, continue through Borgarnes, then turn east onto Route 50 toward Reykholt. The spring is well-signposted with a free parking area that accommodates approximately 30 cars. No 4WD is needed -- the entire route is paved and well-maintained year-round. The nearest town is Reykholt (2 km). The site pairs well with visits to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls (10 km), Krauma spa (adjacent), and Víðgelmir lava cave (25 km).
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. The spring is equally impressive in all seasons and there is no admission fee. October through March: cold air produces the most dramatic steam columns and offers northern lights potential from nearby Krauma spa. April through May: fewer crowds with spring light on the Borgarfjörður landscape. June through August: longest daylight, ideal for combining with full West Iceland day trips. September: autumn colors in the birch woods near Reykholt make for excellent photography. The viewing area is open 24 hours with no gates or closures.
Planning help
Deildartunguhver FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.