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Secret Lagoon

Secret Lagoon, Gamla Laugin Entrance to Secret Lagoon Secret Lagoon geothermal pool Bathing in Secret Lagoon Geothermal area around Secret Lagoon

Secret Lagoon, known locally as Gamla Laugin, is a historic geothermal pool near Flúðir and the oldest swimming pool in Iceland, dating back to 1891. The lagoon is fed continuously by natural hot springs, keeping the water at around 38–40°C throughout the year. A walking path around the pool passes steaming springs and the active Litli Geysir, adding a distinctly geothermal setting to the bathing experience.

Open All year · Hours vary by season
Entry ISK 4,500 adults
Parking Free
Time needed 1.5–2 hrs

Why visit?

  • Bathe in Iceland’s oldest swimming pool
  • Relax in naturally heated geothermal water at 38–40°C
  • Walk among active hot springs and see Litli Geysir erupt

What to Experience at Secret Lagoon

Main Lagoon · 60–90 min Relax in the naturally heated geothermal pool
Geothermal Walk · 10–15 min Follow the path around the lagoon through the active geothermal area
Litli Geysir · 5–10 min Watch the small geyser erupt beside the lagoon
Hot Springs · 10–15 min See Vaðmálahver, Básahver, and other boiling springs that supply the lagoon
Cold Pool · 5–10 min Cool down with a cold plunge between visits to the warm lagoon

Facilities

Changing Rooms Indoor changing rooms include showers and lockers. Showers are communal and separated for men and women.
Accessibility Accessible admission is available, although visitors with specific mobility requirements should check current facilities before arrival.
Café The on-site café serves drinks, snacks, sandwiches, and other light refreshments. There is no full-service restaurant.
Rentals Towels and swimsuits are available to rent.

Tips & insights

  • Book in advance, as admission cannot be guaranteed without a reservation
  • Allow around 1.5–2 hours for a typical visit
  • Showering without a swimsuit is required before entering the lagoon
  • Bring your own towel and swimsuit or rent them at reception
  • Remove silver jewellery before bathing, as the sulphur-rich water may temporarily discolor it
  • Follow the marked path around the geothermal area and never enter the surrounding hot springs
  • Secret Lagoon is easy to combine with nearby Friðheimar, Flúðir, Gullfoss, and other Golden Circle stops

The History of Secret Lagoon

Secret Lagoon was created at Hveraholmi in 1891 and is known locally as Gamla Laugin, meaning “the Old Pool.” The naturally warm springs in the area had already been used for bathing and washing clothes, and Hveraholmi even served as a meeting place for the local legislative body until 1894.

The pool later became an important place for swimming in the area, including swimming lessons during the early 20th century. Today, Secret Lagoon retains its historic setting while modern changing facilities make it suitable for contemporary visitors.

The lagoon is still supplied entirely by geothermal springs, including Vaðmálahver, Básahver, and Litli Geysir. The water flows continuously through the pool and is completely replaced approximately every 24 hours.