Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths: Hours, Address, Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths Reviews: 4.5/5
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths
4.5
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
About
Laugarvatn Fontana is composed of a series of interconnected baths and steam rooms that complement each other to create a healthy, natural and unique spa experience.Three steam rooms, collectively called GUFAN, have been built over a natural hot spring that has been used since 1929. The temperature of the steam varies depending on the temperature of the hot spring and weather, usually between 40°C (104°F) and 50°C (122°F). Humidity is very high in the steam room cabins. Grids in the floor of the steam rooms allow guests to hear and smell the boiling natural hot spring underneath, creating a natural and totally unique experience. Next to the steam room is YLUR, a Finnish-style sauna. The temperature is between 80°C (176°F) and 90°C (194°F), with a lower humidity than the steam room having a big window facing the lake of Laugarvatn. LAUGA, SÆLA, and VISKA are interconnected outdoor mineral baths that vary in depth, size and temperature. Some areas are suitable for relaxation and others offer space for movement and playfull moments. Stone artwork made by Icelandic artist, Erla Thórarinsdóttir, enhance each visitor’s experience. VISKA, the hot tub, is built at a slightly higher level than the other baths, providing a panoramic view of the beautiful surroundings while the healthy water nourishes both body and soul.Completing the ensemble are VATNIÐ and STRÖNDIN — the lake and the beach. Visitors will reach VATNIÐ through a gate. STRÖNDIN has warm black sand, which has been shown to be beneficial for those suffering from arthritis and other joint illnesses. VATNIÐ provides an opportunity to cool down between visits to GUFAN and YLUR, a temperature shift that is both healthy and strengthening
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
6 within 3 miles

Restaurant Lindin Bistro Cafe
811
410 ft$$ - $$$ • European • Scandinavian • Vegetarian Friendly

Heradsskolinn Restaurant
126
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • European • Scandinavian • Vegetarian Friendly

Laugarvatn Fontana Cafe
19
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Cafe • European

Cozy Cafe in Galleri Laugarvatni
52
0.4 mi$$ - $$$ • Cafe • European • Vegetarian Friendly

Hótel Laugarvatn Restaurant
0.3 miItalian • Indian • European • Asian

Barion Laugarvatn
1
0.4 mi
Attractions
1 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,926 reviews
Excellent
1,245
Very good
489
Average
129
Poor
43
Terrible
20
baner
New York City, NY17 contributions
My husband and I did the Rye Bread Tour. Our guide was Beatrice who was beyond lovely. She took her time and pace talking about not only the process but the history, culture and sentiments that go into the art of making bread in the ground.
It is fascinating how although you already know what will happen (dig the ground, remove pot etc)...watching it, smelling it, touching it and hearing about it in person is a memorable experience!
After Beatrice cut up the bread into multiple pieces and while we were a big group - everyone had multiple opportunities to eat as much break with smoked trout or butter as they liked. We hung out and chatted with Beatrice asking various questions about Iceland etc.
Overall it was wonderful - I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a piece of a dying art and culture of Iceland.
It is fascinating how although you already know what will happen (dig the ground, remove pot etc)...watching it, smelling it, touching it and hearing about it in person is a memorable experience!
After Beatrice cut up the bread into multiple pieces and while we were a big group - everyone had multiple opportunities to eat as much break with smoked trout or butter as they liked. We hung out and chatted with Beatrice asking various questions about Iceland etc.
Overall it was wonderful - I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a piece of a dying art and culture of Iceland.
Written March 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Stacey
3 contributions
We LOVED our trip here, we did the geothermal bakery tour, and then the spa session too after.
It was fascinating to see how bread is made and cooked in the land, the guide was very welcoming, friendly and fun. We learnt a lot and felt included. The bread was SO SO yummy, you get to eat lots with fresh trout and butter after which was just delicious.
The spa is spotless and has everything you needed, several different temperature pools with beautiful views. Everything in the changing rooms has been thought of and I felt very relaxed and non rushed with our experience there. We had some soup and break for lunch in the cafe after which was really good and in line with moderate prices in Iceland, Easy to find, easy to park and truly beautiful, you can even swim in the lagoon if you feel brave enough, they supply water shoes.
It was fascinating to see how bread is made and cooked in the land, the guide was very welcoming, friendly and fun. We learnt a lot and felt included. The bread was SO SO yummy, you get to eat lots with fresh trout and butter after which was just delicious.
The spa is spotless and has everything you needed, several different temperature pools with beautiful views. Everything in the changing rooms has been thought of and I felt very relaxed and non rushed with our experience there. We had some soup and break for lunch in the cafe after which was really good and in line with moderate prices in Iceland, Easy to find, easy to park and truly beautiful, you can even swim in the lagoon if you feel brave enough, they supply water shoes.
Written March 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kate K
12 contributions
Couples
I researched spas/geothermal pools prior to visiting Iceland. This was a fabulous choice. Firstly on a route not too far from Gulfoss Falls & Geysir and Faxi waterfalls, so this really suited our itinerary. When we booked we had to choose a time slot, however our itinerary for the day over ran by about 3 hours and Fontana spa let us use the facilities several hours later. Lovely, friendly staff greeted us who explained the facilities and what spa etiquette was. Make sure you shower fully prior to entering the spa! The changing rooms are clean & spacious, with plenty of lockers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel & body lotion. Hair dryer, cotton buds etc. We brought our own towels but you could hire them along with robes. There are 4 pools all at different temperatures & then there's the lake for the brave ones to dip in to. 3 steam rooms & a sauna. A lovely peaceful spa to relax. Drinks from the bar can be taken into the pools which was great & there is a cafe serving food & drink. Overall a great decision to book here, very good price & then infinity pool view over the lake was stunning.
Written May 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Stacey P
1 contribution
Couples
This was the biggest disappointment on my trip to Iceland. I only booked the geothermal bread baking tour, and I wish I hadn't. I also made the mistake to pay extra for smoked trout with our bread sample. First of all, there were about 30 people crammed onto this tour. All the tour consisted of was watching the tour guide dig up a pot of bread and slice it. After the tour guide sliced the bread he said to the entire group "come get a slice and if you paid extra for smoked trout, be sure to grab some." I'm sorry, but why did I pay extra for the smoked trout when everyone was just taking it anyways?
And the worst part: this was during the middle of the covid pandemic. So once the tour guide said that, it was a mad dash of dirty hands (mostly children) touching all the bread, butter, and trout. Most people were not wearing masks. It was terribly unsanitary during a pandemic to operate the tour this way. We left before we even tried the bread or smoked trout because I was too disgusted with the lack of sanitation. If you are coming to Iceland, I would 100% recommend to skip this place. What a joke.
And the worst part: this was during the middle of the covid pandemic. So once the tour guide said that, it was a mad dash of dirty hands (mostly children) touching all the bread, butter, and trout. Most people were not wearing masks. It was terribly unsanitary during a pandemic to operate the tour this way. We left before we even tried the bread or smoked trout because I was too disgusted with the lack of sanitation. If you are coming to Iceland, I would 100% recommend to skip this place. What a joke.
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
scubachica95
Laramie, WY15 contributions
We had a fun time at Fontana, but if you only have time for one geothermal hot springs experience we would still recommend blue lagoon. This was definitely a more traditional hot springs experience with traditional swimming pools rather than a “natural” looking lagoon. Pros included a beautiful scenic view of the lake and steam rooms/sauna. Cons were towel rental was not included in ticket price and drinks were not available for purchase without a credit card once you entered the lagoon area. You have to pre pay with your card at the registration desk.
Written February 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Steve A
Ambleside, UK37 contributions
We had a great afternoon at these baths, first taking the bread baking tour which while pretty straightforward was interesting and resulted in a good bit of tasting including some lovely salmon!
The baths were layed out in the traditional style of having different temperature baths to dip you're way through with the warmer ones unsurprisingly being the most popular! We spent quite a bit of time relaxing in the 36-40 degree one then had some time in the sauna with amazing views across the lake. Having the lake there was a real bonus as you can experience a great bit of fire and ice taking a dip in the lake in between sauna or hot pools (or if your a cold water swimmer like my wife you'll head out for a swim in the lake!). It was fun to watch people from the Sauna window, heading down to the lake, dipping quickly then running back out! The cold air and snow on the ground certainly got you ready for the cold dip!
The facilities were good and clean and there was access to the cafe/bar via a hatch near the pools with a beer at a not to unreasonable (for Iceland) price.
There's cheaper pools around that offer similar (we went to a good locals one in Reykjavík but this one is in a great spot with awesome views. Definitely worth the trip
The baths were layed out in the traditional style of having different temperature baths to dip you're way through with the warmer ones unsurprisingly being the most popular! We spent quite a bit of time relaxing in the 36-40 degree one then had some time in the sauna with amazing views across the lake. Having the lake there was a real bonus as you can experience a great bit of fire and ice taking a dip in the lake in between sauna or hot pools (or if your a cold water swimmer like my wife you'll head out for a swim in the lake!). It was fun to watch people from the Sauna window, heading down to the lake, dipping quickly then running back out! The cold air and snow on the ground certainly got you ready for the cold dip!
The facilities were good and clean and there was access to the cafe/bar via a hatch near the pools with a beer at a not to unreasonable (for Iceland) price.
There's cheaper pools around that offer similar (we went to a good locals one in Reykjavík but this one is in a great spot with awesome views. Definitely worth the trip
Written January 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Brianna C
2 contributions
We did the bread tour as our first stop in Iceland. It's a simple, short tour. They take a group a few steps down a path next to the lake and talk about the area, history and the process of baking bread in the ground. The tour guide was very friendly. You watch them dig up the bread and place a new pot in the ground then walk back and slice up the bread. It's warm bread, uniquely flavored and offered with Icelandic butter and smoked trout. Other reviews had said you pay extra for the trout, that wasn't the case for us. It was offered if you wanted it, no additional cost. The group was allowed to eat as many slices as they wanted. When it was done we had ordered a bowl of soup in what looks like a cafeteria/café area before we headed out to do the Bruarfoss Waterfall hike and see the Great Geysir. It was interesting but nothing phenomenal. Luckily I had booked this before our outdoor adventures so we had a bit of food in our stomachs. All in all the bread tour took maybe 30 minutes.
Written May 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Gymbabe3
8 contributions
Friends
We booked this tour based on the Zac Efron Netflix special and we were thoroughly surprised at the marvelous facility they have created. You can enjoy a hot pool here or kayak as well in the water. What I did not enjoy was the size of the tour as there was almost 40+ people in the same tour and I felt I was not able to get a good view or ask questions I may have with a smaller group. The tour guide was nice and explained everything precisely but I felt it was more of a show than a real cultural experience. Overall I would recommend this tour if you are in the area and have 30 minutes to spare.
Written September 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
A R
3 contributions
Friends
My sister and I did this in the middle of our day in the Golden Circle. We had a group of 10 or so people, until 11 people popped off a tour bus late *eye roll* and joined in. Because there were a couple kids on the bus, they of course, took the spotlight from there. It is a simple tour, but we still enjoyed ourselves. Also, we thought it was tacky, that while there was plenty of bread to go around, a few people just milling at the Cafe, also helped themselves. If that's no big deal, then what did we pay for?
Written May 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Simon
Eau Claire, WI4 contributions
We did a 9:30am Rye bread tour and went back for a 7:30pm bath experience. Both totally worth it! The bread tour was extremely informative (but I find geothermal stuff fascinating). The bread with the local dairy butter and the smoked salmon from a local fisherman delicious! 30 minute tour and tasting after.
Going back to experience the baths and saunas in the evening was perfect while overlooking the lake as the sun set. We even jumped into the lake, just to say we did. We stayed for 2 hours.
Going back to experience the baths and saunas in the evening was perfect while overlooking the lake as the sun set. We even jumped into the lake, just to say we did. We stayed for 2 hours.
Written September 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Elizabeth G
Windham, NH26 contributions
I've read some conflicting info on the showering situation here. , I've had extensive surgery to remove cancer and have scars and would under no circumstance shower publicly or in front of my 14 year old daughter. It would be far too traumatic for both of us. Is there an option of private naked showers? I don't mind waiting if its limited. But I don't want to buy tickets and then not be able to go. I know, I'm America, sure, but it really is more than that in this case.
Thanks!
LutonLassie
Edinburgh7 contributions
At what time of the day do the tour buses stop here? I want to find a quiet time of the day to visit if possible, so any advice would be great. Thank you
52francis2019
Cleveland, OH3 contributions
Tour Buses arrives around 12:30 pm. Spa is also busy after 7 pm. The best time to use the Spa Is 10 am to 12 noon and 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Also the Spa Admission is Multi Entry on the same day. It means we can go to Spa in the morning then go out for lunch and come back in the afternoon or evening.
Melissa
London, UK
Can I get here without a car? Also are we allowed to bring small camera equipment in such as a small tripod for pictures?
mallard52
29 contributions
The lobby/eating are is just like a small cafe. I wouldn’t plan on bringing a camera in to the bathing area...everyone is clothed, but it’s a relaxing experience like a spa. I think camera equipment would have been very out of place.
Beata C
1 contribution
We will be visiting Fontana spa the first week of August. I booked the 11:30 bread tour, we would also want to have lunch there and visit the spa. Would 12 PM lunch reservation and 12:30 spa reservations make sense? If we are 15 min late (because the lunch maybe takes longer), will they still let us it?
Melanie
Windsor, CT70 contributions
Time lines are pretty relaxed there. People just want to enjoy their vacation and the staff is well aware. They were excellent. I’m just not sure I would want to eat then have a massage on a full stomach.
Amber692
Cincinnati, Ohio, USA82 contributions
How are the changing rooms? One big open area or private showers?
NomeMan
Alaska390 contributions
Yes, there are very nice changing rooms with free lockers. The men's shower area has a single stall at the end with a curtain, but most of showers are communal. They are rainfall heads though and the shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel are exceptional.
gianmarco l
Melbourne, Australia51 contributions
Come si raggiunge il posto partendo da Reykjavik?
pierrrrrrr
London, UK45 contributions
Io ho usato la macchina a noleggio (occhio perche' tendono a fregare...specialmente green motion) comunque ho visto anche molti pullmans di gite organizzate da tour operators a Reykjavik
SnoopyHo
90 contributions
Is it still very cold there in March?
Anyone stay here at night around March? if yes, was you able to view Northern light ? Thank you.
Mike L
Huddersfield1,043 contributions
Viewing the lights is down to luck for this location, you will have moved away from the light pollution of the city and there are stop off points on the way back to Rejkjavik if you are on a favourable night. If you are in the thermal pools you will be nicely warm-much better though to have the full experience of dipping in the lake then warming back up in the sauna.
TARAandDAVID
Newcastle, UK17 contributions
Hi - does the water from these pools affect your hair as badly as the Blue Lagoon - ie its like straw for days afterwards. Also are you allowed to take a mobile phone in a waterprrof case around your neck into the pools to take photos
Robin L
Pittsburgh, PA82 contributions
I have naturally curly hair and it wasn’t affected by the water like the Blue Lagoon. Yes, you can take phones in. I did not, but some other people had them.
Elaine N
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia10 contributions
Wonder what is the difference in menu between the lunch and dinner buffet?
Also wonder it is more advisable to visit during the day or night?
BobOxenburgh
Alamo, CA309 contributions
We went at 7.00 p.m. Used the pools, sauna, steam room, lake for 1.5 hours. Then had a late supper of the soup of the day, and lox on their own bread. And beer. It was a relaxed, informal, serve yourself, cheery café. Really enjoyed it.
yinwah
153 contributions
how do you book a tour of the bread making at Laugarvatn Fontana Spa?
Delman
Sulaymaniyah, Iraq1,426 contributions
You can book through their website:
However, we went in July 2018, and we were not able to book via website because it was not working.
So we just gave them a phone call (+354 486 1400) and we were asked to show up 15 minutes before the bread making show.
Hope I answered your question.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths
- Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths is open:
- Sun - Sat 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- We recommend booking Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 18 Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths:
- Golden Circle and Fontana Geothermal Spa Day Trip from Reykjavik (From $113.00)
- Fontana Geothermal Spa and Golden Circle Tour From Reykjavik (From $98.65)
- Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Laugarvatn (From $265.20)
- Fontana Spa and Golden Circle Private Tour from Reykjavik (From $488.00)
- Private Golden Circle and South Coast | 1N2D | Start from Reykjavik (From $1,824.33)
- Hotels near Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths:
- (0.04 mi) Golden Circle Apartments
- (0.10 mi) Héradsskolinn Guesthouse
- (0.12 mi) Bjork Guesthouse
- (0.16 mi) Hotel Edda - IKI Laugarvatn
- (0.25 mi) Hotel Laugarvatn
- Restaurants near Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths:
- (0.08 mi) Restaurant Lindin Bistro Cafe
- (0.13 mi) Heradsskolinn Restaurant
- (0.18 mi) Laugarvatn Fontana Cafe
- (0.44 mi) Cozy Cafe in Galleri Laugarvatni
- (5.75 mi) Efstidalur II
- Attractions near Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths:
- (7.77 mi) Buubble Tours
- (4.50 mi) The Cave People
- (7.35 mi) Bruarfoss Waterfall
- (9.01 mi) Fridheimar
- (1.30 mi) Nine Worlds