Let Iceland's oldest natural hot spring warm you up! The Secret Lagoon or Gamla Laugin is the warm highlight of the Golden Circle Area in Iceland that's worth your time and money. Book your Secret Lagoon tour now!
Before we begin:
Pro-Tip - Important!
Here's a great idea to plan your visit to the Secret Lagoon. Visit the Secret Lagoon with any of the Golden Circle Tours available that include the Secret Lagoon. Why? Because:
- It will save you money as the Lagoon is part of the Golden Circle. You can also visit other Golden Circle spots on the same tour.
- The service will take care of the bookings.
- You will get a guided tour.
Now, let us dive into the Secret Lagoon.
Gamla Laugin - The Secret Lagoon Iceland
It's a place where you can sense the warmth of Earth!
The Secret Lagoon is a natural and oldest swimming pool located on the Golden Circle Route of Iceland. Locally, it is also referred to as "Gamla Laugin".
Essentially, it's a geothermal area named "Hverahólmi" with several hot springs. There is a proper management team that runs the pool.
Image by Jenna Morrissey
Over years, it has evolved as a brand that attracts a lot of visitors. There are many facilities that allow you to have a fulfilling experience at the Secret Lagoon.
The main feature of the Secret Lagoon is its natural hot spring, which reaches temperatures of up to 38°C (100.4°F). The pool also features a geyser that spouts hot water every few minutes.
This brings many visitors back year after year and adds to the unique atmosphere of the lagoon.
Why It Is Called Secret Lagoon?
The name sounds so naturally enticing. Let us explore what's behind the name.
The Secret Lagoon was originally known as Gamla Laugin, which means “Old Pool” in Icelandic. It is a tranquil location, and the name 'Secret Lagoon' captures this mysterious atmosphere perfectly.
Although, the lagoon is not a secret anymore as it is well-known now. Still, it's not crowded. That makes it a perfect spot to relax in warm water.
Some people also connect it's
Here's The Secret! - History Of Gamla Laugin
Let's dive a bit into the history of the Secret Lagoon.
The natural swimming pool was formed more than a century ago in 1891! Later, the local Icelanders built a proper pool on it. After that, this old pool became a spot for bathing and washing clothes for the locals only.
Bathing in the hot springs is a significant part of Icelandic culture. This natural swimming pool was treated as a blessing that's why they built a proper pool structure on it. It also remained the hub of the local legislative Flúðir community.
In 1909, local swimming lessons were commenced at this pool. After that, this place was at its prime and remained a popular spot for the locals.
However, the good times lasted till the year 1947. After that, the Gamla Laugin was closed mysteriously.
No one to date knows why that happened!
Here's The Secret!
Gamla Laugin is located on private property. Some accounts say that the previous owner who bought the land made the pool exclusive and private only for the family back in the year 1947.
After that, it remained closed for over 60 years.
Well, good times returned. In the year 2005, the prime of Gamla Laugin was restored by the owners.
A fully functional mini resort was made with brand-new facilities at the Lagoon. It took years to give it an outstanding look while preserving its natural beauty.
Fast forward, it was reopened with all its glory on June 7, 2014!
Where Is The Secret Lagoon Located?
The Secret Lagoon is located in the small village of Flúðir. It's a two-hour drive from Reykjavik, which makes it an ideal day-trip destination. You can easily visit this place as part of your Golden Circle tour. Because it is close to the Geysir Geothermal Area, Thingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss.
How To Get To The Secret Lagoon Iceland?
The Secret Lagoon is easily accessible as it's located on the Golden Circle route. You can drive from Reykjavik or nearby areas to reach the lagoon. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the Secret Lagoon from Reykjavik.
When you're traveling to the Secret Lagoon from the north on Route 30, keep an eye out for a left turn onto Hvammsvegur Road.
If not taken before, be aware that when you reach a sharp left bend in the road at Fludir it is time to U-turn and return back - as this means you have gone too far.
Here's another route.
- Follow Suðurgata to Hringbraut/Route 49 -1 min (500 m)
- Continue on Route 49. Take Þjóðvegur 1, Suðurlandsvegur, and Route 1 to Skeiða- og Hrunamannavegur in Flóahreppur - 1 hr 3 min (72.5 km)
- Follow Skeiða- og Hrunamannavegur to Hvammsvegur in Flúðir
Once you arrive at the Secret Lagoon, there is ample car parking available. On your return trip, make sure that you keep an eye out for the turning on Hvammsvegur Road again - as it can be easy to miss.
What To Do At The Secret Lagoon Iceland?
Image by Jenna Morrissey
The Secret Lagoon is a spot for relaxing. One can easily travel from Reykjavik to the Lagoon in just 1.5 hours.
You can take a relaxing soak in the hot springs of the Lagoon. However, it is mandatory to take a shower before you get into the pool.
First, you need to change into your bathing suit.
Pro Tip: Bathing and towels are available at a cost. That's why, we recommend bringing your own towels and swimsuits.
Next, you get into the pool and cherish the hot springs. By the pool, you can enjoy drinks at the bar and munch on snacks.
Pro-Tip: The Secret Lagoon water temperature is pleasant, hovering around 38-40C. However, don't stay in too long; take frequent breaks and sit on the edge if you start to feel lightheaded from the warmth of the pool.
Facilities At The Secret Lagoon Iceland
You can find brand new facilities at the Lagoon. There are properly maintained changing rooms, restrooms, and shower stalls.
Plus, there is a locker room as well which you can use to safeguard any precious items. Next up, there is a cafe and an eating area. Towels and bathing suits are available at a cost.
A spacious parking area is also available free of cost for visitors only.
Do You Need To Book In Advance?
We recommend booking your tour in advance. Because there is a greater influx of visitors around the year.
However, if you are traveling with a trusted service you are good to go! Because the service will be responsible to book your slots.
Pricing Details Of The Secret Lagoon
Here's a complete pricing breakdown of the price of admission tickets to Secret Lagoon.
For Adults
For adults (15 years old and older), the ticket costs ISK 3300.
For Children
Entry for children under 14 is free of cost. However, this applies to max 3 children with parents.
For Seniors & People With Disabilities
The ticket costs ISK 2300 for senior citizens over 67 and people with disabilities. Discount is also available with a valid current ID.
You can also get a multi-pass for ISK 26400 which is valid for one year. This is a viable option for Icelanders.
Rent For Towels & Bathing Suits
One towel and one bathing suit are available for rent at ISK 900 each. That's a bit expensive. It's advised to bring your own to the Lagoon.
Secret Lagoon Opening Hours
The Secret Lagoon is open all year round. Here are the winter and summer opening hours of the Lagoon.
Winter Season
From 1st October to 31st May - Open from 10 am to 7 pm
Summer Season
From 1st June to 3oth September - Open from 10 am to 8 pm.
Please Note
It's important to check with the management before booking and even before visiting. Because the weather conditions might impact the opening hours.
Visit The Secret Lagoon With Golden Circle Day Tours!
talking about the Secret Lagoon makes us want the warmth of the hot springs! We are sure you are feeling the same. So, why not book your tour to the Secret Lagoon Tour.
You can trust Golden Circle Day Tours! GDCT is a well-reputed name in the travel and tourist landscape of Iceland.
We have the perfect tour for you by Golden Circle Day Tours!
Golden Circle Secret Lagoon Tour
This guided tour will take you to the Secret Lagoon along with Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park, and Geysir Geothermal Area.
- Price: ISK 14900 Per Person
- Duration: 8 Hours
- Starts From: Reykjavik
For more details, click here!
