Laugaras Lagoon
A stunning two-tiered geothermal lagoon on the banks of the Hvítá River, perfectly placed along the Golden Circle with naturally heated spring pools, a waterfall, saunas, and an acclaimed on-site restaurant.
Last updated June 2026
About Laugaras Lagoon
Opened in 2025, Laugarás Lagoon is South Iceland's newest geothermal bathing destination — a beautifully designed two-tiered outdoor spa set on the banks of the glacier-fed Hvítá River, right on the Golden Circle route.
What Makes It Special
Laugarás Lagoon is Iceland's first two-story geothermal lagoon. The upper and lower pools are connected by a cascading waterfall — a first for any geothermal facility in Iceland — and the naturally heated spring water is sourced from geothermal reserves right beneath the site. The architecture keeps a deliberately low profile: grass-covered rooflines and arches inspired by local lava caves let the volcanic landscape remain the dominant feature.
- Two interconnected outdoor pools heated by natural geothermal spring water
- Cascading waterfall connecting the upper and lower levels
- Cold plunge pool fed by glacier water from the Hvítá River
- Two saunas, swim-up bars, and lounging areas with mountain views
- On-site spa for treatments
Dining at Ylja
The on-site restaurant, Ylja (Icelandic for warmth), is led by chef Gísli Matt — known for his celebrated Slippurinn restaurant on the Westman Islands. The menu is seasonal and locally rooted, drawing on ingredients from nearby geothermal greenhouses, local farms, and South Iceland fisheries. It is well worth booking a table alongside your lagoon visit.
Visiting Tips
- Laugarás Lagoon is suitable for guests aged 8 and older; children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
- Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in peak summer season
- A changing room, towel hire, and all essential facilities are provided on-site
- The surrounding Laugarás village is a quiet agricultural area, so plan your refreshments and fuel stops in advance
Adding It to Your Golden Circle Day
Laugarás Lagoon sits neatly between the Geysir geothermal area and Kerið Crater on the Golden Circle loop, making it a natural stop on any full-day itinerary from Reykjavík. Many guests choose to soak here in the afternoon, after visiting Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, letting tired muscles recover before the drive back to the city.
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Key Facts
Tours That Visit Laugaras Lagoon
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