Hellulaug
Hellulaug
Hellulaug
simple-thermal · Westfjords
Hotter than 10% of Iceland springs (n=20).
More acidic than 55% of Iceland springs (n=20).
Mineral profile
Bar width reflects listing order, not measured concentration.
Suitability
At a glance
Getting there
Easy — under 1km from a station
About this spring
This rugged, natural rock pool sits hidden right on the rocky shoreline of the remote Vatnsfjörður fjord. The basin is cut directly into the coastal cliffs and offers bathers panoramic views across the cold ocean water toward the Westfjords horizon. The spring water flows silently from a rock crevice and remains beautifully warm and clear throughout the year.
Highlights
History
The pool is located in an area deeply tied to the early settlement of Iceland, close to where Hrafna-Flóki first landed and named the island.
Local fishermen have used this hidden geothermal vent for centuries to warm themselves after long shifts on the freezing North Atlantic waters. It remains completely undeveloped, lacking any changing facilities or artificial paths to preserve its wild coastal essence.
Local guide
Located in the remote Westfjords region, Hellulaug sits hidden just below the main coastal road on the rocky shoreline of Vatnsfjörður. There are no signs or grand structures pointing the way, only a small gravel turnout near the sea. Walking down the short rocky path reveals a natural rock basin cut directly into the coastal cliffs.
Bathing here provides a magnificent sensory contrast. The pool water is completely clear, perfectly warm, and bubbles gently from a hidden crevice in the rock wall. As you sit immersed in the thermal warmth, you can look out over the freezing, deep blue waters of the fjord. The salty ocean breeze hits your face while the rhythmic sound of crashing waves creates a soothing natural soundtrack.
There are absolutely no facilities, changing rooms, or toilets at this site, so you must change out in the open air or inside your vehicle. Bring a thick towel and a warm windproof jacket to slip into immediately after exiting the water. Sturdy shoes are helpful for navigating the uneven rock steps down to the pool.
The spring is completely free to enter and remains open around the clock, making it a perfect spot for late-night stargazing. It rarely gets crowded due to its remote location in the far west of the country. After your soak, you can find hot meals and comfortable lodging at the nearby Hotel Flókalundur.
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.
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.
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.
Amenities
Getting there
Follow the Ring Road northwest, take Route 60 toward the Westfjords, and look for a small dirt turnout just past the Flókalundur hotel junction.
Location & nearby
Vatnsfjörður, Westfjords
More springs in Westfjords
FREEThis modest community bathing spot features three simple, rectangular concrete pools set into a green mountain slope. The site overlooks the serene waters of the Tálknafjörður fjord and offers an incredible vantage point for spotting low-flying sea birds. A rustic wooden shed stands nearby to provide basic changing facilities and wind shelter for bathers.
Common questions
What is the water temperature at Hellulaug?▾
The water temperature at Hellulaug ranges up to 40°C (minimum around 38°C).
Is Hellulaug free to visit?▾
Yes, Hellulaug is free to visit.
Is Hellulaug a public or private bath?▾
Hellulaug is a public bathing spring.
Are tattoos allowed at Hellulaug?▾
Yes, Hellulaug welcomes visitors with tattoos.