Wondering where to swim in the Westfjords? Or perhaps you’d rather just relax in hot water in a picturesque location. I’ve got you covered with the seven best hot springs in the Westfjords including Hellulaug and Krosslaug!
Many of the hot pools in the Westfjords offer ocean views in relatively remote locations, making for scenic, peaceful soaks that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
So pack up your four-wheel drive, visit the Westfjords, brace for a few bumpy roads, and bask in the warm water rewards of venturing to the more remote areas of Iceland.
7 Best Hot Springs In The Westfjords (Hot Pots And Pools!)
Hellulaug
GPS: 65.57715, -23.15948
The beauty of many hot springs in the Westfjords is their seaside location, and Hellulaug, with its tranquil Atlantic Ocean views and lack of tourist crowds is an ideal spot for relaxing.
To add to its appeal, entrance is free (though donations for pool maintenance are welcome) and the hot spring is easily accessed from the parking lot.
If you don’t feel like changing in the car, I suggest arriving in your bathing suit as there are no changing facilities on site.
The water temperature remains fairly consistent all year round, though it’s more of a warm pool than a hot pot, comfortable but not ideal for extended periods of time.
If you’re like me and embrace the hotter temperatures, some of the other Westfjords hot pots on this list may appeal to you more.
Krosslaug
GPS: 65.51961, -23.40533
Not to be confused with Krosslaug (Reykir), the Krosslaug of the Westfjords features a concrete swimming pool as well as a smaller, more natural-looking hot pot.
Both pools average about 37C, tending towards the warm but not hot collection of Westfjords hot springs.
If you don’t mind the water temperature, the remote pools with exceptional ocean views allow for the precious opportunity to take in Icelandic nature in peace and quiet.
A small entrance fee gives you access to the pools and changing facilities.
Heydalur
GPS: 65.84360 -22.67947
Three Westfjords hot pots, one Heydalur hotel, and a lot of energy-boosting, cozy relaxation. Hotel guests have free access to the pools, but anyone can visit for a small entrance fee.
Perhaps the most unique of the swimming pools in the Westfjords is the Heydalur pool and hot tub located within a greenhouse, complete with draped vines, fruit trees, and twinkle lights.
The closest outdoor pool is a series of hot pots encircled with large stones from the area.
The final hot pot and the most natural of them all is called Galtahryggjarlaug and is a 5-10 minute walk from the hotel. It fits roughly 8 people and is positioned alongside a river.
Hörgshlíðarlaug
GPS: 65.84528, -22.61212
With permission from the farmers at Hörgshlíð, you can enjoy free access to the privately owned Hörgshlíðarlaug hot pool with stunning views of the Mjóifjörður fjord.
You’ll find this man-made concrete pool and the modest little changing hut to its side are well maintained.
At roughly 40C, Hörgshlíðarlaug is one of the toastier Westfjords hot pots.
For those interested in contrast bathing, the proximity of the pool to the ocean allows you to alternate back and forth.
Drangsnes
GPS: 65.6882, -21.44825
As is common with hot tubs in the Westfjords, Drangsnes offers you a soak with a view. Enjoy gazing out at the sparkling sea complete with whales and seals if you’re lucky.
Despite being located by the road, the hot pots offer plenty of peace in this quiet fishing town of Drangsnes with under 100 residents.
Change and shower in the facilities across the street before getting in the pool. At these hot springs, a swimsuit is a must as the pools are clearly visible to all locals and visitors passing by.
Now it’s time to enjoy the pool! With three different tubs varying from hot to cool, fed with natural, geothermally heated water, you’re bound to find a temperature that suits you.
Pollurin
GPS: 65.64908, -23.89486
Quiet, modest, and everything you want in a hot spring, Pollurin is a treasure loved by locals in the small town of Tálknafjörður.
Complete with small changing rooms and a shower, this series of four hot pools ranging in depth is an ideal place to kick back after a hike or a long drive.
As is expected at all pools and hot springs in Iceland that offer showers, you will need to rise off thoroughly before entering the water.
The water can vary significantly in temperature from around 36C-45C. If you’re not satisfied, move around between the pools until you find a spot that suits you.
Krossneslaug
GPS: 66.05625, -21.50852
If you’re willing to embrace the long, challenging (though scenic) drive along the gravel road to Krossneslaug, and pay the nominal entrance fee, this pool and accompanying hot tub are well worth the visit.
Krossneslaug is one of the most remote hot springs in the Westfjords, and as a result, is only accessible from roughly May-August when the weather is favorable.
When you arrive, shower in the facilities, change into your bathing suit, and enjoy a swim in the naturally heated 34C pool.
The small hot tub is slightly warmer at 38C. Both of these Westfjords hot pools have outstanding ocean views. You might even catch a glimpse of a humpback whale tail in the distance.
We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to venture off the beaten path to the Westfjords where you’ll experience some of the best hot springs in Iceland away from the mass tourist crowds.
Whether you’re settling into a hole-in-the-ground hot pot or looking out at the ocean from a man-made infinity pool, these hot springs in the Westfjords are sure to leave you coming back for more.
If you have any questions as you plan your Westfjords adventures, feel from to let me know in the comments.
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