Swim in Serenity: Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool Adventure

Seljavallalaug's History and Formation

Seljavallalaug was built in 1923 by local volunteers, led by Björn Andrésson, to teach Icelanders how to swim. At the time, most people in Iceland didn’t know how to swim, even though they lived on an island. By 1927, swimming lessons became a required part of school education. The pool was built in Seljavellir, a small valley below Eyjafjallajökulll, because of the nearby natural hot water, which kept the pool warm enough for lessons.

Over time, Seljavallalaug faced challenges, especially during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption. In April of that year, the volcano under the glacier erupted, releasing ash and melting ice. Floods and heavy ashfall hit the area, covering the pool in thick volcanic ash. It had to close, but locals, volunteers, and even travelers worked together to clean it up. They scrubbed the walls, cleaned the changing rooms, and made it usable again in 2011. Their hard work saved this historic spot and showed the strength of the Icelandic community.

Today, Seljavallalaug is a quiet, historic pool that shows the effort of its builders and the care of those who keep it open. Algae and ash sometimes accumulate in the water, but that’s part of what makes the pool feel natural and real. Visitors who hike to Seljavallalaug can enjoy more than just a warm swim—they get to connect with a piece of Iceland’s history, shaped by both nature and the local community.

Key Information Seljavallalaug

Here’s some important information you must know to plan your visit.

Location and How to Get There

Seljavallalaug is just off the Ring Road (Route 1) on Iceland’s south coast, just two hours away from Reykjavik. Turn onto Route 242 (Raufarfellsvegur) and follow the road until you see signs for Seljavellir. Park in the designated lot, then walk along a rocky, mostly flat trail for about 20 minutes. The path can be uneven and wet, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Facilities

The pool has simple changing rooms, but they aren’t cleaned regularly. There are no restrooms, showers, or staff onsite. Algae often builds up, making surfaces slippery. Also, there is no lifeguard on duty.

Price

Seljavallalaug is free to visit, with no admission fee, no matter the time. However, Seljavallalaug accepts donations from those willing to help. There's actually a box on-site where you can contribute if you want to.

Opening Hours

The pool is open 24 hours a day, year-round. Daylight hours depend on the season, with short days in winter and long days in summer.

Etiquette (How to Behave Responsibly)

Since the pool is community-maintained, you must do your part to keep it clean and enjoyable for future visitors.

• Take all your trash with you and leave the area clean.
• Be respectful of others and keep noise levels down.
• Walk carefully—surfaces can be slippery, and there’s no lifeguard.
• Keep your belongings with you since there’s no secure storage.

What to Bring

Seljavallalaug is a natural swimming pool literally in the middle of nowhere, so, of course, you must bring all you might need with you.

• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Sturdy shoes (for the uneven trail)
• Warm layers (the pool is lukewarm, and the weather changes quickly)
• Water and snacks (there are no facilities)
• Trash bag (pack in, pack out)

Why Is Seljavallalaug Worth Visiting?

Seljavallalaug is more than just a hidden spot. Its location in a quiet valley beneath the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and its fascinating history make it a unique stop compared to Iceland’s busier geothermal attractions. Here’s why it’s worth checking out:

Uniquely Lukewarm Geothermal Experience

Unlike Iceland’s typical hot springs, which are usually around 38°C (100°F) or warmer, Seljavallalaug’s water stays between 20°C and 30°C (68°F–86°F). In the summer, this feels cool and refreshing, while in the winter, it can feel crisp—especially with snow on the nearby mountains. The pool’s temperature comes from geothermal water mixing with local runoff, offering a different experience from Iceland’s hotter pools.

A Photogenic, Off-the-Beaten-Path Setting

Set in a quiet valley, Seljavallalaug is reached by a short 15–20-minute hike. Once there, you’ll find a rugged and scenic view of mossy cliffs, basalt hillsides, and the towering Eyjafjallajökull volcano. The lack of signs or on-site supervision gives the area a natural, untouched feel, making it a more genuine alternative to more developed places like the Blue Lagoon. These places are what make Iceland unique.

Community-Maintained and Free to Access

The pool is completely free and relies on visitors to help keep it clean, making you feel part of the community. There are no ticket booths, cafés, or extra facilities—just the pool and basic changing rooms (which are often in bad shape). By taking your trash with you, you join a long tradition of helping to keep Seljavallalaug open and enjoyable for everyone.

Gateway to Other South Coast Wonders

Seljavallalaug is close to some of Iceland’s top attractions, like Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and the black-sand beaches of Vík. Even if you find the pool a bit cold and don’t stay long, the surrounding area offers plenty to see and do.

Best Time to Visit

The water in Seljavallalaug stays between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Summer is great because the warmer weather makes it easier to enjoy the pool for longer. In winter, the snowy mountains create a beautiful setting, but the water can feel cooler. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, and wear proper clothes for the short hike.

Things to Do in Seljavallalaug & Around

As we said, Seljavallalaug is located on Iceland’s South Coast, one of the country’s best road trip routes. Some amazing attractions are nearby.

Visit Skógafoss

Just a 16-minute drive away, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and one of my favorites. It’s 60 meters (197 feet) tall and 25 meters (82 feet) wide, and on sunny days, you’ll often see rainbows in the mist. There’s a staircase next to the waterfall that leads to amazing views of the falls and the surrounding hills. If you have some extra time, stop by the Skógar Museum nearby. It’s a great place to check out old Icelandic artifacts, turf houses, and farming tools, giving you a peek into the area’s history.

Explore the Eyjafjallajökull Area

Eyjafjallajökull became famous after its 2010 eruption, which disrupted flights across Europe and left ash around Seljavallalaug. If you want to hike the volcano, it’s best to go with a guide because the terrain can be tricky. You can also learn about the eruption at the Eyjafjallajökull Eruption Visitor Centre, a small exhibit with videos and photos of what happened. For great views of the glacier-capped peak, stop at one of the pull-offs along the nearby roads.

Check Out Vík

Drive east along the Ring Road to Vík, a small village with a stunning black sand beach. The volcanic sand, the basalt columns at Reynisfjara, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks make this place look otherworldly. It’s a great spot for photos. In Vík, you’ll find cozy cafés and a church on a hill with beautiful views of the area. Just be careful near the water—sneaker waves can be strong and unpredictable.

Seek Out Nearby Trails

If you feel like exploring more, there are many hiking trails around Seljavallalaug. One popular route is from Skógafoss to Fimmvörðuháls Pass, which takes you through waterfalls, valleys, and lava fields before ending at Þórsmörk Nature Reserve. For a quieter adventure, check out trails near Seljavellir. These paths wind through moss-covered lava fields and glacial rivers, showing off Iceland’s dramatic cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and ever-changing landscapes.

Summary

Seljavallalaug is a great example of Iceland’s resilience and community spirit. Built in 1923 to teach locals how to swim, it’s a special place that highlights Iceland’s natural geothermal features. The short hike to get there is worth it for the peaceful pool and the amazing views. The water is lukewarm, and the simple surroundings make it feel calm and relaxing—very different from the busier hot springs. Plan ahead, take in its rustic charm, and Seljavallalaug will be a stop you’ll always remember on your trip along Iceland’s south coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

To answer any remaining queries, here are some frequently asked questions about Seljavallalaug Hot Spring in Iceland.