Secret Lagoon - Gamla Laugin
Secret Lagoon - Gamla Laugin
4.5
About
The Secret Lagoon natural pool is located in the village of Fludir in the Golden Circle area. The historical surroundings have been kept natural and simple for a unique and authentic experience. The pool is surrounded by several hot springs, including a little geyser, providing the pool with fresh warm water, maintaining a temperature of 38-40 °C throughout the year. In the winter the northern lights can often be seen in the area and what better way to experience the light show than relaxing in the warm water surrounded by the steam from the earth? The Lagoon offers brand new facilities next the hot spring with showers, bar and eating area. Food is not served daily but can be arranged for groups when arranged in advance. Feel free to contact the staff for any inquiries or for a group deal.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- a cWirral, United Kingdom203 contributionsA relaxed natural lagoonWe booked the Secret Lagoon after having our Blue Lagoon cancelled. This is on the Golden Circle and the drive was worth it. The lagoon is so natural and the oldest lagoon. We had a lovely two hours. Changing rooms were spacious. Served drinks and snacks. I would recommended this lovely place.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 17, 2023
- KathySeastron64 contributionsBeautiful authentic Icelandic poolFabulous, authentic hot spa pool in a really convenient location if you’re visiting the Golden Circle. Clean, tidy changing rooms. Can hire towels and even swimming costumes! Beware that the edges are very hot! I could have stayed in for hours!Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 19, 2023
- starkris9Lower Gwynedd, Pennsylvania87 contributionsBlissful and relaxing stop after Golden CircleSecret Lagoon was the perfect way to relax after we self-toured the Golden Circle. We did not have tickets in advance and were able to walk up and purchase them around 2:30pm on a Monday in November. No fuss, perfectly clean and complete facilities. Bring a towel if you have it or you can rent one. The pool itself is a heavenly temperature on a cold day (about freezing). There is smooth gravel under your feet and the occasional spout of a small geyser feeding the warmth of the water. Backlit by local greenhouses, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Iceland as you wind down your day.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 24, 2023
- mtanguloWashington DC, District of Columbia944 contributionsWarm relaxin stopThis location is very well organized for the seekers of a warm relaxing hot spring experience. There is a short safety video played to visitors upon arrival. The changing rooms are well organized and clean, you can get a locker and store your clothes and valuables before showering and getting into the pool. There is a small sitting area and a cafeteria area where you can get alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages that you can bring into the lagoon. The experience is so relaxing, just enjoy the space, the natural surroundings, and a nice drink of your choice. Visit highly recommended.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 25, 2023
- Amy8 contributionsDefinitely worth a visit!!I am so pleased that we decided to take a trip out to the Secret Lagoon. It was a brilliant experience. We arrived at around 3.30pm and it didn't feel like it was overly packed with people. The water was lovely and warm, almost too warm in some spots! I especially loved that the floor of the pool was a lovely soft gravel. You can buy beers, wine and soft drinks to enjoy whilst you're in there and there is somewhere to have a light bite as well. The changing facilities were really clean and they had extra touches such as a swimming costume dryer, body wash & Shampoo in the showers, hair dryers and plastic bags to pack your wet stuff in for the journey home. You can also pay a bit extra at reception and they will waterproof your phone so that you can take it in the pool with you. It was one of my favourite experiences in Iceland and I would highly recommend it if you are looking for a smaller and more intimate experience of the natural hotsprings that Iceland has to offer.Visited November 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 27, 2023
- JZ196916 contributionsFabulous Icelandic ExperienceIt was a lovely experience. The hot springs were amazing..it was all very well organised and good value. It's a bit of a trek to get there independently if you haven't hired a car, but we got a guide to bring us from Reykjavik It was well worth it.Visited December 2023Traveled with familyWritten January 7, 2024
- sabrinak136New Orleans, Louisiana1,499 contributionsCherish the Day at the Secret LagoonThere is no secret that geothermal swimming pools can be found throughout the country of Iceland. However, I had no idea how important both geothermal and regular pools are to the Icelandic people. I quickly learned during my visit and the rules of visiting by venturing out to the Secret Lagoon. The Secret Lagoon is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland and was established in 1891. It is said that it was used through 1937 but then abandoned for approximately 60 years. However, today this geothermal pool has been restored and now it is open to visitors. We visited the Secret Lagoon with Hidden Iceland on The Golden Circle Tour so the cost was included. However, if you rent a car and make the drive yourself the cost is 3600 ISK (roughly $26.00 US dollars) and children are free of charge. Swim attire must be worn and remember to bring a towel. This might seem strange to U.S. travelers however, a shower without clothing is required prior to entering the lagoon. For those who are squeamish about public showering (all females and males have their own showrooms). this may not be an adventure for you. Showers are communal. This concept is very common in Europe so no one is going to pay attention to you so no worries. It is just nice to be prepared as a visitor. The Secret Lagoon has the ability to calm all your stress with its warm water. Definitely a moment for relaxation. In addition, the surrounding area is absolutely gorgeous. You can take a walk along the boardwalk and watch in splendor at the work of Mother Nature. There is also Litli Geysir which erupts and can be seen from the pool. You will also find a small cafe which services drinks and small treats. Secret Lagoon is indeed a delightful places just like all of Iceland. Take a moment to relax and take in the natural beauty of Iceland as you visit the Secret Lagoon.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten January 12, 2024
- Roam393210803192 contributionsOff the beaten pathThis was part of the Golden Circle tour with Arctic Atlantic. It was welcomed ending to a day of blistering cold weather. It's less crowded, more intimate and calming than some of the others. Don't forget to jump out of the springs, walk around the path to cool off before going back into the springs again.Visited January 2024Traveled soloWritten January 21, 2024
- Jess B21 contributionsTranquil and less busy than other spotsWent here after touring around the golden circle. Lovely way to end the day in a relaxing outdoor thermal pool. Beware though that they say you have to shower naked prior to entering the pool area. Shower area is not private but is at least split for male and female. I almost didn't go because of the reviews warning this but would have been a shame not to experience for this reason.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 3, 2024
- kayakerman33 contributionsLovely experience, kind and friendly staffHigh praise to Secret Lagoon for honouring our pre-booking that we missed, due to snowstorms. We arrived two days late and it was not a problem, and we were served with a smile. As we turned up at opening time, we had the pace to ourselves for 30 minutes, but even when groups arrived it felt calm. Very nice changing rooms and atmosphere in the cafe. And the mini "geysir' is a bonus too.Visited February 2024Traveled with familyWritten February 5, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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CWRG
Warwickshire, UK128 contributions
Aug 2021
The first thing I would like to recommend is better (more visible) sign posting to the Secret Lagoon. Please remember not everyone lives local and knows the area or how to get there. The signs are small and hidden by vegetation.
We made a booking for 12:00 noon as the facility opens - 12:05 the staff showed up.
The facility is absolutely great - wonderful pool, perfect showers.
The service lets the whole experience down. The staff act bored and indifferent. How about if the staff worked at cleaning and maintaining the facility instead of sitting slouched in chairs poolside.
This is a fantastic facility - shame about the service.
We made a booking for 12:00 noon as the facility opens - 12:05 the staff showed up.
The facility is absolutely great - wonderful pool, perfect showers.
The service lets the whole experience down. The staff act bored and indifferent. How about if the staff worked at cleaning and maintaining the facility instead of sitting slouched in chairs poolside.
This is a fantastic facility - shame about the service.
Written August 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Murray
2 contributions
Jan 2020
Stayed in an air bnb in fludir house was fantastic perfect spot to do the golden circle .More importantly we were able to watch the northern lights from our back yard amazing
To see they lasted around 30 minutes .
Just around the corner was the secret lagoon which you can book online it’s a natural lagoon unlike the blue lagoon so for us it was perfect(far cheaper too ) roll in the snow & into the hot lagoon .
Reykjavik was good too but for us all the natural sights on the circle are amazing.
Bruarfloss falls you can still get too if you don’t mind a 3 k walk there & back .just following the river from the car park.The original walk has been blocked by private land owners due to people leaving garbage.
Stayed last night in Keflavik by the airport asbru hotel ideal for an early or late flight ,pizza & pasta place minutes away .
Just for reference we hired a mini van from Sad cars ,roads are clear to drive & in a day we managed to do a few of the many waterfalls & geysers & parks .
Doing it independently does save
To see they lasted around 30 minutes .
Just around the corner was the secret lagoon which you can book online it’s a natural lagoon unlike the blue lagoon so for us it was perfect(far cheaper too ) roll in the snow & into the hot lagoon .
Reykjavik was good too but for us all the natural sights on the circle are amazing.
Bruarfloss falls you can still get too if you don’t mind a 3 k walk there & back .just following the river from the car park.The original walk has been blocked by private land owners due to people leaving garbage.
Stayed last night in Keflavik by the airport asbru hotel ideal for an early or late flight ,pizza & pasta place minutes away .
Just for reference we hired a mini van from Sad cars ,roads are clear to drive & in a day we managed to do a few of the many waterfalls & geysers & parks .
Doing it independently does save
Written January 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FoxtrotSierraKilo
127 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
Very relaxing and well worth a visit, stop glad we stopped off. It's well organised with shoe storage before entering the changing rooms and lockers, hair dryers, swimsuit dryer, showers with soap and mirrors in the changing room, the use of all is included in the price. There are hooks at the side of the pool to take your towel with you. There is a cafe with snacks and drinks and you can rent a towel, I believe a swimsuit also but I didn't see any. The changing rooms are open plan but male/female separated and avoid late afternoon, lots of tour companies turn up with lots of rude noisy people and it completely ruins the chilled out vibes.
Written April 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amy
8 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
I am so pleased that we decided to take a trip out to the Secret Lagoon. It was a brilliant experience. We arrived at around 3.30pm and it didn't feel like it was overly packed with people. The water was lovely and warm, almost too warm in some spots! I especially loved that the floor of the pool was a lovely soft gravel. You can buy beers, wine and soft drinks to enjoy whilst you're in there and there is somewhere to have a light bite as well. The changing facilities were really clean and they had extra touches such as a swimming costume dryer, body wash & Shampoo in the showers, hair dryers and plastic bags to pack your wet stuff in for the journey home. You can also pay a bit extra at reception and they will waterproof your phone so that you can take it in the pool with you. It was one of my favourite experiences in Iceland and I would highly recommend it if you are looking for a smaller and more intimate experience of the natural hotsprings that Iceland has to offer.
Written November 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonas Gunnarsson
Stockholm, Sweden677 contributions
Aug 2022
The Secret Lagoon is a great place. Compared to the Blue Lagoon, it is a great deal cheaper, and I understand that it is also less crowded. We went mid-afternoon, and it was far from empty, but there was plenty of space for a nice soak.
They have kept the place so that it looks natural, which gives it an authentic feel.
We had bought tickets in advance, but when we came a couple of hours earlier than our booked time slot, there was no problems entering.
Highly recommende.
They have kept the place so that it looks natural, which gives it an authentic feel.
We had bought tickets in advance, but when we came a couple of hours earlier than our booked time slot, there was no problems entering.
Highly recommende.
Written October 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrei M
5 contributions
Feb 2020
We've done Secret Lagoon, Blue Lagoon and Fontana spa all in the same trip in february. Secret Lagoon was our 1st. I think that it is the best when it comes to value of money. It is definitely the warmest water of all three (in my opinion) There are caffees inside with eating options (sandwiches and chips) and drinks. Very nice scenery. Secluded. Definitely more affordable than the blue lagoon
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sarrals
Reading, UK154 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
The Secret Lagoon had an authentic feel to it with natural surroundings and rustic changing rooms and cafe.
It felt quite crowded when we got there, around 5pm.
The changing rooms, cafe and pool were all busy.
I would of been disappointed if I had specially made this trip, 90 mins outside Reykjavík.
I was underwhelmed with the whole experience.
It felt quite crowded when we got there, around 5pm.
The changing rooms, cafe and pool were all busy.
I would of been disappointed if I had specially made this trip, 90 mins outside Reykjavík.
I was underwhelmed with the whole experience.
Written January 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carrie H
Brighton, UK28 contributions
Nov 2021 • Couples
A great experience! This was the last stop on our Golden Circle tour and I definitely recommend it. I was torn between visiting the Secret Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon but in the end settled on this. There were 3 reasons why; firstly, price. This is much cheaper than the Blue Lagoon and tours which include it. Secondly, as it's not the most well known it is much quieter and less busy. There were maybe 20 people in the pool at the most when I visited. Thirdly, and I think most importantly, it is a natural hot spring. The Blue Lagoon is man made and in my mind not an authentic Icelandic experience.
It's important to note that there's only a communal changing room. There are toilets but there are signs that ask you not to get changed in them. It's important to shower before you get into the pool - this has to be done naked, before you put on your swimming costume. I am such an anxious person and was really really nervous about this, but honestly there's no need to be. Most tourists are in the same boat and are more concerned with their own modesty than anyone else's, and locals that use the pool have seen it a million times before and wouldn't it wouldn't cross their minds to take a peek.
There are loads of lockers which are free for everyone. There's also towels to hire for 700ISK (~£4). I think there's swimming costumes to rent too which are also 700ISK but I can't confirm this as I didn't enquire.
At the bar inside you can buy wine/beer/snacks and you're allowed to take these into the pool which is a novel experience!
The side of the pool can be deceptively slippy. It doesn't look overly treacherous but whilst I was there a girl slipped over and cut her arm and had to be escorted inside.
Some parts of the pool are hotter than others, and some parts are off limits as they're 100°C - there's are fenced off so you're in no danger of accidentally floating into them.
Like most hot springs there's an overwhelming smell of sulfur, or eggs. There's also an algae like substance in the water which finds its way into your swimming costume so make sure to have a good scrub when you get out.
Overall this was up there with my favourite places to visit during my trip to Iceland and I'd definitely recommend it! Nothing beats leaning back in the pool with a glass of wine in hand :)
It's important to note that there's only a communal changing room. There are toilets but there are signs that ask you not to get changed in them. It's important to shower before you get into the pool - this has to be done naked, before you put on your swimming costume. I am such an anxious person and was really really nervous about this, but honestly there's no need to be. Most tourists are in the same boat and are more concerned with their own modesty than anyone else's, and locals that use the pool have seen it a million times before and wouldn't it wouldn't cross their minds to take a peek.
There are loads of lockers which are free for everyone. There's also towels to hire for 700ISK (~£4). I think there's swimming costumes to rent too which are also 700ISK but I can't confirm this as I didn't enquire.
At the bar inside you can buy wine/beer/snacks and you're allowed to take these into the pool which is a novel experience!
The side of the pool can be deceptively slippy. It doesn't look overly treacherous but whilst I was there a girl slipped over and cut her arm and had to be escorted inside.
Some parts of the pool are hotter than others, and some parts are off limits as they're 100°C - there's are fenced off so you're in no danger of accidentally floating into them.
Like most hot springs there's an overwhelming smell of sulfur, or eggs. There's also an algae like substance in the water which finds its way into your swimming costume so make sure to have a good scrub when you get out.
Overall this was up there with my favourite places to visit during my trip to Iceland and I'd definitely recommend it! Nothing beats leaning back in the pool with a glass of wine in hand :)
Written November 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J R M
Vaughan, Canada379 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
I have been to Iceland 3 times and this is my 6th geothermal pool. I have also been to Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, Seljavallalaug, Nautholsvik, and Myvatn. It is a good outdoor geothermal pools and one that I would return to. It is a 90 minute drive from Reykjavik. We spent under 2 hours in the pool. Very clean facilities. Not crowded. Very reasonably priced. Surrounded by intriguing "Litl Geysir" and other hot spots that heat the pool. Black sand underfoot. Not crowded. This is the oldest geothermal pool in Iceland, founded in the late 19th century. Do NOT stop at Fridheimar tomato greenhouse before coming here. They try to pull in tourists en route to the Secret Lagoon. Secret Lagoon should invest in a finer restaurant to attract willing tourists away from Fridheimar. I would highly recommend Secret Lagoon for a unique, quiet geothermal pool experience. Much simpler and laid back versus Blue Lagoon. No pretensions here.
Written August 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CharlieV2011
Chicago, IL2,195 contributions
Jul 2021 • Solo
The Secret Lagoon is great way to end a busy day of sightseeing by relaxing in hot water and going for a swim. Once you enter, you can drop your backpacks off at one of the many storage lockers and then take a mandatory shower before going for a swim. Once in the lagoon, the water is amazing! You can order drinks and relax. Use caution as there are some slippery spots and some of the edges have hotter water than other areas. I really enjoyed this place and the fact that it was not too crowded.
Written July 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi are we able to wear water/rfver shoes in the lagoon please? or have you to be bear footed?
Written January 23, 2024
Sorry l have no idea but they seem to be very relaxed there so can't imagine it being a problem.
Written January 24, 2024
Hi there is there a way round the naked shower as there is no way I will get my teenager to do that which is a shame
Thanks
Written September 4, 2023
The rule to shower without any clothing on is not enforced.
Written September 5, 2023
Hi, is there a smell of sulphur in the lagoon area? I have asthma that’s a bit sensitive.
Many thanks in advance
Written August 20, 2023
Yes there is a slight smell of sulphur in the pool from adjacent thermal springs but not at all strong when we were there.
Written August 20, 2023
I will be traveling with a group that has a scheduled stop here. I don’t plan on participating. Is there anywhere to walk around to occupy my time or maybe somewhere to sit? Thanks!
Written September 5, 2022
You can sit outside the cafe on some picnic benches and there is a wooden walkway around the surrounding smaller pools around the lagoon itself
Written December 31, 2022
I have long hair and do not plan on submerging my head so would I still need to wash my hair prior to going into the lagoon? (secret or blue)
Written July 20, 2022
We didn’t wash our hair (nobody checks anyway) but, if you have long hair, it would be a good idea to tie it up as most do. Certainly we wouldn’t recommend submerging your head in that water!
Written July 21, 2022
Can you wear your towel to and from the shower room and are there hooks in the shower room to hang it?
Written March 19, 2022
IN the male changing rooms, the showers are only a few metres from where you get undressed / dressed.
There is a towel rack about half way between the two. You leave your towel and swimwear on the rack, then shower, then put your swimwear on.
Leave your towel in the rack, don't take it outside because it will get wet if (when) it rains / snows..
After you finish in the lagoon (which is fantastic) you take your swimwear back off, shower again, get fully dried and then go get dressed.
There is a swimwear spinner at the edge of the drying area to dry your swimwear.
The idea is you only walk on the changing area floor when you are fully dry which keeps the floor clean and dry.
Written March 22, 2022
Do you need to take your own towels?
Written March 7, 2020
Can you wear shorts and a tshirt in
Written February 21, 2020
Swim shorts yes, t-shirts no.
Written February 22, 2020
Does the hot water dry your hair out, do you need to protect your hair like at the blue lagoon?
Written January 25, 2020
Yes, the Blue Lagoon has a lot more sulfur in the water which wrecks your hair and dries it out. I didn't get my hair wet in the Secret Lagoon, but my skin felt softer after going vs. the Blue Lagoon.
Written February 23, 2020
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