Hrunalaug
Hrunalaug
Hrunalaug
simple-thermal · South
Hotter than 10% of Iceland springs (n=20).
More acidic than 25% of Iceland springs (n=20).
Mineral profile
Bar width reflects listing order, not measured concentration.
Suitability
At a glance
Getting there
Moderate — a short ride from a station
Cost
Low
About this spring
This charming, small geothermal pool sits nestled into a grassy hillside on a private historic farmstead. The pool walls are crafted from rough, moss-covered stone boulders that blend seamlessly into the surrounding green valley pasture. A tiny turf-roofed stone hut stands at the water's edge to serve as a rustic, historical changing shelter.
Highlights
History
The stone basin was originally constructed by local farmers in the late nineteenth century as a practical place for washing wool and bathing sheep.
It remained a quiet community secret for generations, used exclusively by the resident families of the Hruni parish. The landowner added simple modern trail access and a small maintenance fee recently to protect the delicate moss from growing tourist crowds.
Local guide
Tucked away on a historic private farmstead near Flúðir, arriving at Hrunalaug feels like discovering a secret meadow oasis. A short gravel trail leads you through a green valley to a tiny, turf-roofed stone hut. The small spring features three distinct soaking sections lined with rough, mossy boulders that blend perfectly into the hillside.
The soaking experience is incredibly cozy and personal. The main pool is small, holding only a handful of people at a time, which encourages quiet conversation or peaceful meditation. Thick green moss cushions your back against the stone walls while the perfectly warm water bubbles up from the gravel floor. The intimate setting makes you feel completely insulated from the outside world.
Bring cash or a credit card to pay the small maintenance fee at the parking gate, which helps the farming family preserve the delicate landscape. Pack a quick-drying towel and sandals, as the paths around the water can be muddy and wet. There are no modern showers or lockers, so you change inside the tiny turf hut.
The site implements strict capacity limits to protect the environment, so visiting early in the morning is the best way to secure a spot without waiting. It is an ideal romantic stop for couples looking for an authentic, old-world bathing experience. Be sure to respect the rules and stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile Icelandic moss.
Mineral chemistry
Simple thermal springs have lower dissolved mineral content but are valued for the pure therapeutic effect of heat immersion itself — easing muscle tension and improving circulation. Considered the gentlest introduction to hot spring bathing.
Standard precautions apply: avoid bathing within 30 minutes of eating, keep soaks to 10–15 minutes for first-timers, and hydrate before and after.
Similar springs
These exclusive, stone-lined thermal pools are tucked deep inside a remote volcanic canyon at the edge of the Icelandic highlands. The pools are built from local basalt stones to mirror the raw geological formations of the surrounding cliffs and rivers. The surrounding wilderness features striking views of rushing glacial streams and distant snowfields.
This traditional pair of circular pools is built entirely from smooth, hand-stacked volcanic stones on the edge of the Skagafjörður shoreline. The water is supplied by a natural hot spring vent and smells faintly of earthy minerals and sea salt. The coastal location is constantly swept by ocean breezes and offers beautiful views across the bay toward Drangey Island.
FREEThis rustic, twenty-five-meter concrete swimming pool sits hidden deep inside a narrow, dramatic mountain valley. The water is fed by a natural hot spring trickling down from the volcanic slopes of the infamous Eyjafjallajökull glacier. A simple, weathered concrete changing shack sits at the pool edge with no staff, electricity, or modern amenities.
FREEThis completely natural geothermal river flows gently past the edge of the vibrant Laugahraun lava field in the southern highlands. Cold water streams mix with boiling volcanic vents to create an ideal, shifting temperature zone for weary hikers. The pool is surrounded by stunning, multi-colored rhyolite mountains that glow with hues of orange, yellow, and green.
Amenities
Getting there
Drive toward Flúðir via Route 30, turn onto Route 344, then take the small gravel track toward Hruni church and follow signs to the farm parking area.
Location & nearby
Hrunamannahreppur, 845 Flúðir
More springs in South
This historic open-air pool utilizes a continuously flowing natural hot spring that feeds a stone-lined basin. A small active geyser erupts nearby every few minutes, casting thin plumes of steam across the pastoral landscape. The water remains perfectly warm year-round and maintains an authentic, old-world Icelandic atmosphere.
This lakeside wellness facility features multiple outdoor mineral pools, steam rooms, and shallow wading zones built directly over bubbling geothermal vents. The stone-lined pools vary in temperature and border the dark sand shoreline of Lake Laugarvatn. A highlight of the property is the outdoor bakery where traditional Icelandic rye bread is buried and baked directly in the hot geothermal sand.
FREEThis spectacular geothermal river winds through a lush green volcanic valley filled with bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. Wooden boardwalks track along the sections of the river where the temperature is ideal for open-air bathing. The water temperature changes dynamically based on how far upstream or downstream you choose to settle.
Common questions
What is the water temperature at Hrunalaug?▾
The water temperature at Hrunalaug ranges up to 40°C (minimum around 38°C).
Is Hrunalaug free to visit?▾
Hrunalaug charges an entrance fee in ISK.
Is Hrunalaug a public or private bath?▾
Hrunalaug is a public bathing spring.
Are tattoos allowed at Hrunalaug?▾
Yes, Hrunalaug welcomes visitors with tattoos.