Planning a Journey Into Iceland’s Thermal Magic

As I planned my trip to Iceland this November, I quickly realized something: Iceland isn’t just about glaciers and black sand beaches—it’s also a land of hot water. Geothermal water, to be exact. The kind that bubbles up from deep beneath the Earth and transforms a rugged landscape into one of the most relaxing places I’ve ever dreamed of visiting.

At first, my itinerary had only one spa: Sky Lagoon. But then I found myself spiraling into a rabbit hole of lagoons, hot pots, public pools, and wild springs. From the luxurious Blue Lagoon to the remote, mystical Seljavallalaug pool tucked into the mountains, the options were as vast and varied as the landscape itself.

So, how do you choose where to soak in Iceland in November? That’s the journey I want to share—with a mix of research, recommendations, and the real, raw beauty of thermal bathing in Iceland’s moody winter.

Part I: What to Expect from Iceland’s Hot Springs in November

Weather + Water: Know Before You Strip Down

November in Iceland is when daylight wanes, wind bites, and rain or sleet is never far away. Stripping down to a swimsuit in freezing temperatures may sound insane—but the experience is unmatched.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Daylight hours: Around 5-6 hours, so early planning is crucial.

• Temperature: Ranges from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F).

• Hot springs water temps: Vary wildly. Some natural springs hover around 35-38°C (lukewarm), while spa hot tubs can reach 42-45°C (steaming hot!).

If you’re worried about getting cold (like I was), seek out the hotter springs and spas with changing rooms nearby. You’ll thank yourself when the wind hits your wet skin at 80 mph.

Part II: The Great Hot Spring Debate – Lagoon vs. Hot Pot vs. Pool

1. The Spas (Lagoon Life)

🌋 Sky Lagoon – My Current Booking

Modern. Sleek. Infinity pool overlooking the North Atlantic. That’s Sky Lagoon in Reykjavík—a new player that instantly seduced me with its minimalist Icelandic design. It’s known for its seven-step ritual, including a cold plunge and sauna, which sounds amazing in theory (we’ll see how brave I am come November).

Pros: Luxurious, close to Reykjavík, hot water, great amenities
Cons: Expensive (~ISK 9,990+), may lack the wild vibe

💙 Blue Lagoon – Iceland’s Iconic Soak (But Timing Is Tricky)

Ah, the Blue Lagoon. The poster child of Icelandic relaxation. Milky blue waters, silica masks, and—honestly?—a little too touristy. As much as I wanted to go, our flight times make it complicated. Plus, the recent volcanic activity has caused occasional closures.

Pros: Unique water, super warm, Instagram-famous
Cons: Crowded, $$$, possible closures

🥖 Fontana Spa – Rye Bread & Relaxation on the Golden Circle

Located in Laugarvatn, this spa is often overshadowed by its famous neighbors but is quietly delightful. I’ve read glowing reviews about its steam rooms and the famous geothermal-baked rye bread experience.

Pros: Affordable (~ISK 4,000), less crowded, cultural touch
Cons: Smaller than Sky or Blue Lagoon

🔥 Vök Baths – Floating Infinity Pools in the East (Too Far This Time)

Although it won’t fit into this trip, I want to mention Vök near Egilsstaðir. Their floating geothermal pools on a lake look dreamy. Future trip, for sure.

2. The Rustic Hot Pots

🌿 Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin) – Rustic and Historic

Tucked in Flúðir, the Secret Lagoon is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool (built in 1891), fed by natural hot springs and surrounded by bubbling geysers. Reviews say it feels more authentic and less polished than Sky or Blue.

Pros: Natural vibe, moderate crowd, good Golden Circle stop
Cons: Less luxurious, smaller than Blue or Sky

🧗‍♀️ Seljavallalaug – Hidden Pool in the Mountains

This one had my heart from the moment I saw a photo. Seljavallalaug is an abandoned, mountainside pool near Skógafoss. It’s free and surrounded by silence—but be warned: many visitors say the water is barely warm, and cleaning is rare.

When I heard one person say they hiked there only to find it drained for cleaning, I felt the gamble. Others said the hike (about 15–20 minutes) was dramatic and beautiful—but the reward was a cold, shallow soak.

Verdict: Worth it for the setting, not for the heat. Maybe I’ll just go for the hike and photos.

💧 Reykjadalur Hot River – Hike + Bathing in the Wild

One of the most unique experiences is the hike to the Reykjadalur “Steam Valley,” where you can bathe in a naturally heated river. A 45-minute hike from Hveragerði gets you there, with dreamy steam rising from the earth.

But November? It could be epic or dangerous. Rain, wind, and early darkness are real risks. One hiker shared a horror story: gale-force winds nearly knocking his wife over, shallow lukewarm pools, and a hasty escape.

 Check the weather obsessively. Go at dawn. Consider skipping if it’s stormy.

3. The Everyday Icelandic Pools

🏊 Vesturbæjarlaug – Local Reykjavík Favorite

This might’ve been my favorite discovery. A humble local pool in Reykjavík with steaming hot tubs (some too hot for even seasoned bathers), friendly locals, and no tourist gimmicks. Multiple people swore by its authenticity and affordable entry.

Pros: Cheap, ultra-hot tubs, social
Cons: No scenic setting, public pool vibes

🛁 Sundhöllin – Rooftop Tubs + Retro Charm

Another city pool, Sundhöllin, has rooftop hot tubs, saunas, and beautiful architecture. I’ve added this to my maybe list for a low-key evening soak.

Part III: My Ideal Plan (And Backup Ideas)

🔁 Looping from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón: My Soak Strategy

Here’s my current plan (subject to weather, vibes, and hot water availability):

Day 1 – Arrival in Reykjavík

• Settle in

• Evening soak at Vesturbæjarlaug.

Day 2 – Golden Circle Adventure

• Visit Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir

• Soak at Fontana Spa and try the rye bread

Day 3 – South Coast Drive

• Waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss)

• Hike to Seljavallalaug (if water + weather permit)

• Overnight in Vik

Day 4 – Jökulsárlón + Diamond Beach

• No major soaking today—just icy adventures

Day 5 – Return West

• Optional soak at Secret Lagoon on the way back

• Evening at Sky Lagoon

Backup Options:

• Sundhöllin, if we have time in Reykjavík

• Skip Seljavallalaug if the weather turns.

Part IV: What I’ve Learned From Others

I’m grateful for the travelers who shared their real, unfiltered experiences. From hikes that turned into survival stories to surprise joy in neighborhood pools, here are some key takeaways:

• Heat varies: Don’t expect every hot spring to feel like a Jacuzzi.

• Timing matters: Arrive early to beat the tour buses.

• Wind is wild, especially in November. Prepare for storms.

• Public pools are gold: Don’t underestimate the local gems.

Soaking Up Iceland’s Essence

If you’re like me—someone who craves both adventure and comfort—Iceland’s geothermal baths are the perfect answer. There’s something profoundly spiritual about standing in a pool of steaming water while snow flurries dance above your head.

Each spring has its energy. Some offer polished perfection, others raw immersion in nature. Whether I end up sipping tea in the Sky Lagoon or shivering in a shallow wild pot, I know I’ll come home changed.

November may be dark and cold in Iceland, but its hot springs glow with warmth, tradition, and tranquility. And for that, I can’t wait to strip down, dive in, and soak it all in.

Quick Tips Before You Soak

• Bring a microfiber towel – dries faster in cold weather.

• Always check the weather – Iceland’s storms are no joke.

• Pack a swimsuit – some spots don’t rent them.

• Respect the land – never enter hot springs with sunscreen, soap, or lotion on your body.

Have you visited any Icelandic hot springs in winter? Drop your favorite below—I’m always hunting for hidden gems. And if you’re planning your own November soak, feel free to ask me anything!

🌐 Read more about my Iceland adventures at TuneTravels.com
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