The 4 Best Hot Springs in East Iceland

1. Vök Baths

Vök Baths is just outside Egilsstaðir and is one of the best hot springs in East Iceland. They’re probably my favorite hot geothermal spot in the whole country. The pools float on Lake Urriðavatn, so you can enjoy the view while you soak and jump into the lake for the contrast of cold water. The water is warm, clean, and even safe to drink – something you don’t get at most hot springs in Iceland. There are also steam baths, a cold spray tunnel, and a small bistro for drinks and snacks.

Entry starts at around 6,990 ISK ($50), and you can add drinks or tea if you like. Vök Baths is a nice place to visit any time of year. Since it’s close to Egilsstaðir, you can check out the town afterward. The area around Lake Lagarfljót is also worth visiting, especially if you’ve heard the stories about the Lagarfljót worm.

If you enjoy hiking, there are trails nearby with good views of the lake and forests. Vök Baths sometimes holds events, so there’s more to do than just bathing. Vök is a great stop to add to your Ring Road itinerary, as it’s super close to the main road.

2. Hoffell Hot Tubs

Hoffell Hot Tubs are just 19 km outside Höfn, sitting right at the base of Hoffellsjökull Glacier. It’s a peaceful spot to soak in natural hot water while admiring the surrounding glacier. The area feels quiet and off the beaten path, making it a nice spot if you’re running away from more crowded places.

It costs 2,000 ISK ($14) to get in, and there are five tubs to choose from. The tubs are actually part of the Hoffell Guesthouse and are free if you’re a guest there. It’s usually not too busy, so you can relax without much noise or distraction. After (or before) your soak, you can check out Vatnajökull National Park or head into Höfn for some fresh seafood. The mix of warm water and glacier views makes it a spot worth visiting.

If you feel like stretching your legs, there are a few short hiking trails nearby, and sometimes, you can see reindeer grazing. The tubs used to open all year, but for this season, they will be closed from November 10th till spring.

3. Laugavallalaug Hot Springs

Laugavallalaug Hot Springs is a hidden gem in the Laugavalladalur valley. The best part? There's a warm waterfall that flows into the pool below. You can stand under the waterfall and let the hot water pour over you. It’s a very relaxing experience.

Getting there takes some effort. It's about 110 kilometers from Egilsstaðir, and you'll need a 4x4 for the gravel roads. You can leave the car before getting into the messy part of the road, but getting to the parking is doable. The pool stays around 39°C (102°F), but check the temperature before you jump in. Nearby, you can visit Hafrahvammagljúfar Canyon or the Kárahnjúkar Dam. It's a peaceful spot, perfect for a day trip.

Laugavallalaug is completely natural and has no facilities, so bring everything you need and take any trash with you. It’s also one of the cleanest wild hot springs in the country. It's best to visit during summer or late spring when the weather is nicer. If you love quiet, remote places, this hot spring is worth the drive.

4. Laugarfell Hot Springs

Laugarfell Hot Springs are in the eastern Icelandic Highlands, near Mount Snæfell. It’s just two small pools in a quiet and simple place surrounded by nature. The bigger pool stays between 37°C and 39°C, while the smaller one is warmer, around 42°C to 44°C. Some say the water helps with aches and pains, and it’s a nice spot to rest after hiking.

The hot springs are next to Laugarfell Mountain Hut. The accommodation can fit up to 28 guests, with twin, double, and family rooms available. If you stay overnight, the hot springs are free. There’s also a small restaurant that serves breakfast, dinner, and snacks.

The area has plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife like reindeer. Mount Snæfell is close if you want to explore more. Laugarfell is open from June to September, but groups can visit in winter if arranged beforehand. It’s about 74 km from Egilsstaðir, though the last part of the road isn’t paved.

Day visitors pay 2,700 ISK ($19), and kids under 13 pay 1,700 ISK ($12). Overnight guests can use the hot springs at no extra cost. It’s a quiet, relaxing place worth visiting if you’re in the highlands.

Conclusion

East Iceland might not have as many hot springs as the south, but the ones here are worth visiting. Whether you're floating on a lake, soaking near a glacier, or standing under a warm waterfall, each spot has something unique to offer. If you're exploring East Iceland, don’t skip these hot springs – they’re the perfect way to relax and enjoy the scenery.