Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring: A Hidden Gem in West Iceland

History and Formation of Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring

Guðrúnarlaug is a natural hot spring, meaning people didn’t build it—it was created by nature! Iceland sits on a hotspot of volcanic activity, which heats water underground and sends it bubbling up as geothermal pools like this one. This hot spring has been around for hundreds of years, even mentioned in the Laxdæla Saga from medieval times. The original pool got buried by a landslide about 140 years ago, but in 2009, locals rebuilt it near the same spot to bring it back to life.

Guðrúnarlaug is 100% natural. The hot water comes from the earth’s geothermal energy, not pipes or machines. The 2009 reconstruction added stone walls and a turf-roofed changing room to make it look like a Viking-era hot spring, but the water itself is pure nature. It’s a perfect mix of history and the wild Icelandic landscape.

Guðrúnarlaug isn’t as famous as big spots like the Blue Lagoon, but that’s part of its charm! It’s growing popular with travelers and locals who want a quieter, more authentic experience. People love its connection to the Icelandic Sagas and its peaceful, off-the-beaten-path location in West Iceland.

Photo credit: http://flickr.com/photos/kudumomo/

The Laxdæla Saga and Its Connection to Guðrúnarlaug

The Laxdæla Saga is a famous old Icelandic story, kind of like a history book from hundreds of years ago. It tells the tales of people who lived in Iceland during the Viking Age, filled with adventure, love, and drama. One of the central characters is Guðrún Ósvífrsdóttir, a smart and beautiful woman who had a pretty wild life—she married four times! The saga mentions that she loved to bathe in a hot spring, which leads us to Guðrúnarlaug. The hot spring you can visit today is named after her because it’s believed to be the same one she used.

Key Information About Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring

Here’s the scoop on what you need to know before you go:

Where’s Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring & How to Get There

You’ll find Guðrúnarlaug in the Sælingsdalur Valley, part of the Dalabyggð region in West Iceland. It’s located approximately 20 kilometers from the town of Búðardalur and 167 kilometers from Reykjavík, which takes about 2.5 hours to drive.

Start in Reykjavík, take the Ring Road (Route 1) north, then switch to Route 60 toward Búðardalur. From there, look for a turn onto Route 589 and drive about 3 kilometers until you see Laugar farm. Park at the farm, then walk a short path—maybe 5 minutes—to the hot spring. It’s pretty easy to spot once you’re close, and the drive has lovely views the whole way.

Renting a car is the easiest way to get here since it’s quite remote. You might find tours that can take you there, but the visit will always be part of a larger itinerary, so the flexibility is limited.

Facilities at Guðrúnarlaug

It’s super simple! There’s a small changing room with a traditional turf roof, but that’s it. There are no showers, restrooms, or fancy extras. It’s as natural and rustic as it gets.

Price

It’s free! Like most natural hot springs in Iceland. No tickets and no fees. Similar places often have a donation box, but it’s not the case here.

Opening Hours

Since it’s not a commercial spot, it's open 24/7, all year round. The pool itself is pretty tiny, though, so I’d recommend avoiding peak hours, just in case.

What’s Provided vs. What to Bring

Nothing is provided, so pack your own towel, swimsuit, and maybe some snacks or water. There’s no staff or shop nearby, so come prepared.

Why Is Guðrúnarlaug Worth Visiting?

Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring is a cool spot steeped in Viking history. It’s named after Guðrún Ósvífrsdóttir from the Laxdæla Saga, an ancient Icelandic tale about love and drama. People say she bathed here, which makes it feel special when you visit. The pool was rebuilt in 2009 after a landslide wrecked it, with stone walls and a turf roof to match the Viking era. You can soak in warm water and imagine life a thousand years ago!

The natural beauty around Guðrúnarlaug is another reason to go. It sits in the Sælingsdalur Valley in West Iceland, surrounded by green hills and remote mountains. Unlike packed tourist spots, it’s quiet and peaceful here, perfect for chilling out. The warm spring feels amazing between 37-40°C (98-104°F), and the calm vibe helps you to fully relax. If you want to be in nature without the noise, this is your place.

Best of all, Guðrúnarlaug offers a genuine Icelandic experience. Icelanders have loved geothermal pools like this for ages, and you can be part of it too—no fancy stuff, just a free, natural spring. It’s not some big tourist trap; it’s simple and true to the culture. You’ll feel connected to Iceland’s traditions while soaking in the warm water. It’s an excellent stop for anyone wanting an authentic experience.

Rent a car in Iceland

Visit every corner of the Iceland at easy and with total flexibility

See our prices

Best Time to Visit Guðrúnarlaug

Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring is worth visiting any time of year, but each season offers different.

Summer (June to August)

Summer has long days with almost no night thanks to the Midnight Sun. Soaking in the hot spring at midnight with daylight still around is magical! It’s a great time to explore, such as hiking in the green valley or spotting wildflowers. The warm water feels good even in the warmer weather, and you might find fun local festivals with music and food in the towns nearby.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is cozy and peaceful. The days are short, and snow covers the hills, but the hot spring keeps you warm. If you’re lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights overhead. Visit in the afternoon, as it gets dark very early.

Spring (March to May)

Spring feels fresh and new. Snow melts, streams flow, and you’ll see baby lambs on nearby farms. Fewer people visit, so it’s peaceful, and it's when nature starts waking up. The hot spring is extra nice as the air gets warmer, and birds start returning.

Fall (September to November)

Fall paints the hills golden, and the crisp air makes the hot water feel even better. It’s harvest time, so check out local markets for quirky homemade snacks. The Northern Lights may also appear in late fall.

What to Pack When Visiting Guðrúnarlaug

Guðrúnarlaug is a basic spot with nothing provided, so you must pack everything you might need. Here’s what to bring for a good trip:

• Swimsuit: You need it to get in the water.
• Towel: For drying off after your soak.
• Flip-flops or water shoes: The ground’s rocky, so these help.
• Warm clothes: Bring a jacket or sweater for before and after.
• Snacks and water: There’s no food or drinks nearby.
• Bag for wet stuff: A plastic bag keeps wet things separate.
• Flashlight: Good for dark times, like winter evenings.

Things to Do In and Around Guðrúnarlaug

West Iceland has plenty to see after your soak at Guðrúnarlaug. Here are some nearby places.

Eiríksstaðir: Learn some Icelandic history

Eiríksstaðir is a short drive away and immerses you in Viking history. It’s a rebuilt longhouse where Erik the Red and his son Leif Erikson lived—they are the explorers who discovered Greenland and America (so they say!). You can walk inside, touch the wooden walls, and see their ancient tools. It’s a very interactive way to learn about Iceland’s history. Guides share saga stories, and sometimes you can even try on Viking clothes. It’s great if you’re a history enthusiast or just curious about Iceland’s past—it also connects you to the vibe of the Guðrúnarlaug saga.

Breiðafjörður: See a Stunning Fjord

Breiðafjörður is a big fjord nearby, perfect for nature fans. Take a boat tour from a town like Stykkishólmur to explore tiny islands, tall cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. You might spot puffins, eagles, and maybe seals. Don’t forget to bring binoculars! (it happens to me every time). The views are awesome, with calm waves and big skies that will get you fantastic photos. Tours last a couple of hours, so pack a snack and enjoy. It’s an easy way to see West Iceland’s wild beauty.

Other Geothermal Pools: Hunt for Hot Springs

Do you love hot springs? West Iceland is not the most prolific region, but it has some more to discover. Landbrotalaug is a small, hidden pool near Guðrúnarlaug—perfect for a peaceful dip. It can be tricky to find, so ask locals or search online for directions. The water is warm, and it’s so calm that you might even hear the wind. Be sure to pack a towel, water shoes, and maybe some hot cocoa—there are no changing rooms or stores nearby.

Scenic Drives: Drive Around West Iceland

West Iceland is perfect for a road trip. Rent a car and go for a drive to see stunning views. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula isn’t far and has glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and small fishing villages. Many of the top places to visit in the country, including one of the three National Parks, can be found here. You can stop anywhere you like—such as at a waterfall or cliffs with big waves. The roads are well-maintained, and there are plenty of detours for photos or short hikes.

Saga Trail: Follow Old Stories

The Saga Trail in West Iceland connects locations from Icelandic sagas. Explore Helgafell, a small mountain near Guðrúnarlaug from the Laxdæla Saga, known as the "Holy Mountain". It's said that if you climb it quietly and make a wish at the top, it will come true. Along the trail, signs and small museums share stories of love, battles, and heroes. It’s a cool way to connect with the history around Guðrúnarlaug after your soak.

Conclusion

Guðrúnarlaug Hot Spring is a hidden gem in West Iceland worth visiting. It’s connected to Guðrún Ósvífrsdóttir from the Laxdæla Saga, so you can relax in warm water in the middle of nowhere while thinking about those old Viking days. It’s in the beautiful Sælingsdalur Valley, it’s free to visit any time of year, and great if you want a real Icelandic spot without tons of people around. Whether you love old stories, incredible nature, or just a good soak, Guðrúnarlaug is awesome.

Frequently asked questions about Guðrúnarlaug