Temperature
38–40°C
Naturally maintained year-round
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin): Oldest Hot Spring Pool in Iceland
Iceland\'s oldest swimming pool site (1891) — a natural hot spring pool surrounded by steaming vents and a small erupting geyser.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
Flúðir
South Iceland • Golden Circle area
The Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) in Flúðir is one of Iceland\'s most charming natural hot springs. The site has been used for bathing since 1891, making it the oldest swimming pool location in Iceland. The 38–40°C natural pool is surrounded by steaming geothermal vents and a small geyser that erupts every few minutes.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Book ahead in peak season. Bring your own towel or rent one on site.
Sources to check
History
Since 1891
Iceland's oldest swimming pool site
Location
Golden Circle
Easy addition to a Golden Circle day trip
What to Expect
Natural Pool at 38-40°C
Geothermally heated water naturally maintained at 38-40°C year-round. The water is rich in dissolved minerals from the underground source
Mini Geyser (Smidur)
A small geyser called Smidur erupts every few minutes just beside the pool, shooting water about 1 meter high -- a charming natural feature
Changing Rooms & Showers
On-site changing facilities with hot showers and lockers. Towels available for rent. Bring your own swimsuit
Iceland's Oldest Pool Site
Bathing at this exact location since 1891, making it Iceland's oldest continuously used swimming pool site. Steeped in over 130 years of bathing history
Golden Circle Add-On
Located 10 minutes from Flúðir and close to Geysir (30 min) and Gullfoss (40 min), making it a perfect relaxation stop on a Golden Circle day trip
Affordable Admission (~3,000 ISK)
One of Iceland's most affordable commercial hot spring experiences at approximately 3,000 ISK (~$22 USD) for adults
Getting There
The Secret Lagoon is in the village of Flúðir, approximately 100 km (1.5 hours) from Reykjavík. Take Route 1 east, then Route 30 south toward Flúðir. The lagoon is well-signposted from the village center. Free on-site parking is available. The nearest town is Flúðir itself, which has a small grocery store and restaurants. No 4WD needed -- the route is fully paved. It pairs naturally with a Golden Circle itinerary: Geysir is 30 minutes northeast, Gullfoss 40 minutes, and Þingvellir about 1 hour west.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round, with distinct seasonal highlights. October through March: excellent northern lights viewing while soaking in the warm pool under dark skies. The small geyser eruptions are especially atmospheric at night. December through January: shortest days but most dramatic aurora conditions. June through August: extended hours with midnight sun, but this is also peak tourist season -- book ahead. April through May and September: shoulder season with moderate crowds, pleasant temperatures, and good value. The Secret Lagoon is consistently less crowded than the Blue Lagoon in all seasons, making it a more relaxed alternative.
Pricing
Adult admission is approximately 3,000 ISK (~$22 USD), making it one of the most affordable commercial hot spring experiences in Iceland. Children aged 14 and under enter free. Towel rental is available for a small additional fee. Online pre-booking is recommended during summer but walk-ins are often possible in shoulder seasons.
Planning help
Secret Lagoon FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.