Secret Lagoon

Secret Lagoon (officially known as Gamla Laugin, meaning "the old pool") is Iceland's oldest natural geothermal bathing pool, located in the village of Flúðir in southern Iceland.

The pool was constructed in 1891 and served as a swimming school and community gathering place until 1947, when it fell into disuse. After decades of abandonment, the site was restored and reopened to visitors in 2014, maintaining much of its original rustic character and historical features.

The lagoon maintains a consistent natural temperature of 38-40°C (100-104°F) year-round, fed by a natural hot spring named Vífill that continuously flows from beneath the earth. The pool measures approximately 60-70 meters in diameter with depths ranging from 0.6-1 meter, making it accessible for all swimming abilities.

Unlike developed spa facilities, Secret Lagoon preserves a more natural environment with a gravel bottom, minimal landscaping, and visible geothermal activity around the pool's edges. A small geyser erupts every 5-7 minutes at the pool's perimeter, reaching heights of 1-2 meters.

You can bathe in the warm water while observing the surrounding geothermal landscape, which includes steam vents and hot springs. The facility provides basic changing rooms with showers, lockers, and a small bar serving drinks and light refreshments.

Towels are available for rent at €5 if you don't bring your own. The natural setting means the pool is exposed to the elements, giving you an authentic Icelandic experience with views of the surrounding countryside. During winter, steam rises dramatically from the water's surface, creating atmospheric conditions particularly when temperatures drop below freezing.

Admission costs approximately €30-35 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and teenagers. Children under 14 pay around €15, while those under 3 enter free. Unlike the Blue Lagoon, advance booking is recommended but not always required, particularly during off-peak periods.

You can often purchase tickets at the entrance, though summer weekends and holidays may see capacity limits. The lagoon operates daily with opening hours typically from 10:00-22:00 in summer and 11:00-20:00 in winter, though you should verify current schedules before visiting.

Secret Lagoon is located 105 kilometers from Reykjavík, with the drive taking approximately 1.5 hours via Route 1 (Ring Road) and Route 30. The site sits along the Golden Circle route, positioned between Geysir (25 kilometers away) and Gullfoss (32 kilometers), making it a convenient addition to this popular tourist circuit. From Selfoss, the nearest town of significant size, the drive is 30 minutes via Route 30.