Krauma
Krauma
geothermal · West
Hotter than 85% of Iceland springs (n=20).
More acidic than 70% of Iceland springs (n=20).
Mineral profile
Bar width reflects listing order, not measured concentration.
Suitability
At a glance
Getting there
Remote — over 5km from the nearest station
Cost
Moderate
About this spring
This sleek, architectural spa features multiple geometric black marble hot tubs fed by Europe's most powerful hot spring. The boiling geothermal water is cooled to safe bathing temperatures by mixing it with pure, glacial water sourced from the nearby Ok mountain. Two wood-fired steam baths and a relaxation room centered around an open wood fireplace complete the minimalist sanctuary.
Highlights
History
The modern spa complex was constructed adjacent to Deildartunguhver in 2017 to harness the immense thermal power of the local aquifer safely.
For generations, the boiling spring had been used primarily for regional central heating and local greenhouse farming. The architecture reflects the dramatic contrasts of Iceland's landscape by using dark stone and clean, angular layouts.
Local guide
Upon arrival at Krauma, you can see and hear the roaring power of Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, boiling violently just behind the facility. The spa building itself is sleek, minimalist, and modern, finished in striking dark tones. The design focuses on clean lines and geometric shapes that match the volcanic energy of the region.
The bathing experience is defined by variety and precise temperature control. Five circular black marble hot tubs range from pleasantly warm to deeply hot. The thermal water is cooled using pristine glacial runoff from the nearby Ok mountain, creating a perfect chemical-free blend. Slipping into the calm waters while listening to the distant hiss of escaping steam is incredibly grounding.
Pack a cozy bathrobe if you have one, as walking between the different outdoor marble pods can feel quite brisk in the winter. A water bottle is essential to utilize the fresh mountain spring drinking fountains located on the deck.
Crowds here are generally thin compared to the major lagoons near the capital, making it a fantastic spot for a quiet escape. Combining a soak here with a tour of the historic Reykholt valley creates a perfect day trip. The upscale on-site restaurant serves exceptional West Iceland cuisine using ingredients sourced from local geothermal greenhouses.
Mineral chemistry
Water character inferred from mineral type — verify on site.
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
This world-famous geothermal spa features striking milky-blue waters rich in silica and sulfur. The massive lagoon is surrounded by a dramatic, pitch-black mossy lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Modern architectural facilities seamlessly blend luxury wellness with the raw volcanic environment.
This beautiful alkaline bathing complex overlooks the volcanic terrain and craters of the Lake Mývatn region. The steaming blue pools are supplied with mineral-rich water drawn from depths of up to 2500 meters. Visitors can enjoy sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding geothermal landscapes while they soak.
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 luxury oceanfront geothermal spa features a dramatic seventy-meter infinity edge overlooking the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The architectural design incorporates traditional Icelandic turf walls to replicate the aesthetic of historical coastal homesteads. A multi-step wellness ritual takes guests through steam rooms and cold plunges cut into artificial volcanic rock walls.
Amenities
Getting there
Drive north from Reykjavík along the Ring Road, pass through the town of Borgarnes, then follow Route 50 inland until reaching Deildartunguhver.
Location & nearby
Deildartunguhver, 320 Reykholt
Make a day of it
Pair your soak with these nearby spots.
Attraction
Deildartunguhver
0.1km away
Attraction
Sturlureykir-Visiting Horse Farm
1.8km away
More springs in West
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 luxury coastal property features eight interconnected thermal pools that cascade directly down onto a black sand beach. The water level in the lower rock pools changes dynamically with the rising and falling tides of the Atlantic ocean. The surrounding fjord landscape is characterized by steep green mountains and regular sightings of wild eider ducks.
Common questions
What is the water temperature at Krauma?▾
The water temperature at Krauma ranges up to 42°C (minimum around 37°C).
Is Krauma free to visit?▾
Krauma charges an entrance fee in ISK.
Is Krauma a public or private bath?▾
Krauma is a public bathing spring.
Are tattoos allowed at Krauma?▾
Yes, Krauma welcomes visitors with tattoos.
What is the nearest station to Krauma?▾
The nearest station to Krauma is Reykholt Bus Stop, about 6km away.