Gamla Laugin, known as the Secret Lagoon in English, is Iceland's oldest swimming pool, located in the small village of Flúðir in south Iceland, approximately 100 kilometers east of Reykjavík. The geothermal pool was originally constructed in 1891, making it one of the country's first public bathing facilities.
During its early decades, Gamla Laugin served as a community gathering place and even hosted swimming lessons for local children. The pool fell into disrepair and closed in 1947 but underwent complete restoration and reopened to visitors in 2005, preserving its historic character while meeting modern safety standards.
The pool maintains a constant natural temperature between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius year-round, fed by geothermal springs that provide a continuous flow of fresh mineral-rich water. Unlike treated swimming pools, Gamla Laugin requires no chemicals, with the geothermal source maintaining natural purity.
The circular pool measures approximately 30 to 40 meters in diameter with a shallow depth averaging 1 to 1.2 meters, making it accessible for most visitors. The surrounding area features several small geothermal hot spots, including a small geyser called Litli Geysir that erupts every 5 to 7 minutes, shooting water up to 1 meter into the air just meters from the pool's edge.
The facility's rustic character distinguishes it from more developed thermal baths. Original stone and turf edges remain largely intact, with wooden walkways and changing facilities built in traditional Icelandic style. Steam rises continuously from the water's surface, creating atmospheric conditions especially dramatic during winter months.
The surrounding landscape consists of moss-covered lava fields and steaming vents, with wooden viewing platforms allowing visitors to observe the geothermal activity. The site includes basic changing rooms with showers, lockers, and a small café serving refreshments.
Flúðir village, home to approximately 400 residents, developed around geothermal activity and greenhouse cultivation, with many properties utilizing natural heat for domestic and agricultural purposes.
The area's position along routes connecting the Golden Circle to the South Coast makes Gamla Laugin a practical alternative to the more crowded Blue Lagoon and Laugarvatn Fontana. The village lies 25 kilometers south of Geysir geothermal area and 40 kilometers from Gullfoss waterfall, allowing combination visits within a single day.
Gamla Laugin is accessible via Route 1 (the Ring Road) and Route 30, with clearly marked signs directing visitors through Flúðir village. The drive from Reykjavík takes approximately 90 minutes, while visitors traveling from Selfoss reach the site in about 30 minutes.
Admission costs approximately ISK 3,500 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and children under 14 years. Children under 3 years enter free. Towel rental costs ISK 1,000, and swimsuit rental is available for ISK 1,500 if needed. Online booking is recommended during summer months and provides slight discounts compared to on-site purchases.
10Am - 8Pm
Gamla Laugin, known as the Secret Lagoon in English, is Iceland's oldest swimming pool, located in the small village of Flúðir in south Iceland, approximately 100 kilometers east of Reykjavík. The geothermal pool was originally constructed in 1891, making it one of the country's first public bathing facilities.
During its early decades, Gamla Laugin served as a community gathering place and even hosted swimming lessons for local children. The pool fell into disrepair and closed in 1947 but underwent complete restoration and reopened to visitors in 2005, preserving its historic character while meeting modern safety standards.
The pool maintains a constant natural temperature between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius year-round, fed by geothermal springs that provide a continuous flow of fresh mineral-rich water. Unlike treated swimming pools, Gamla Laugin requires no chemicals, with the geothermal source maintaining natural purity.
The circular pool measures approximately 30 to 40 meters in diameter with a shallow depth averaging 1 to 1.2 meters, making it accessible for most visitors. The surrounding area features several small geothermal hot spots, including a small geyser called Litli Geysir that erupts every 5 to 7 minutes, shooting water up to 1 meter into the air just meters from the pool's edge.
The facility's rustic character distinguishes it from more developed thermal baths. Original stone and turf edges remain largely intact, with wooden walkways and changing facilities built in traditional Icelandic style. Steam rises continuously from the water's surface, creating atmospheric conditions especially dramatic during winter months.
The surrounding landscape consists of moss-covered lava fields and steaming vents, with wooden viewing platforms allowing visitors to observe the geothermal activity. The site includes basic changing rooms with showers, lockers, and a small café serving refreshments.
Flúðir village, home to approximately 400 residents, developed around geothermal activity and greenhouse cultivation, with many properties utilizing natural heat for domestic and agricultural purposes.
The area's position along routes connecting the Golden Circle to the South Coast makes Gamla Laugin a practical alternative to the more crowded Blue Lagoon and Laugarvatn Fontana. The village lies 25 kilometers south of Geysir geothermal area and 40 kilometers from Gullfoss waterfall, allowing combination visits within a single day.
Gamla Laugin is accessible via Route 1 (the Ring Road) and Route 30, with clearly marked signs directing visitors through Flúðir village. The drive from Reykjavík takes approximately 90 minutes, while visitors traveling from Selfoss reach the site in about 30 minutes.
Admission costs approximately ISK 3,500 for adults, with reduced rates for seniors and children under 14 years. Children under 3 years enter free. Towel rental costs ISK 1,000, and swimsuit rental is available for ISK 1,500 if needed. Online booking is recommended during summer months and provides slight discounts compared to on-site purchases.
Yes, Gamla Laugin, has modern changing facilities, including showers and lockers. Towels can be rented on-site, and there's a small café where guests can purchase refreshments.
While not mandatory, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and avoid long waiting times.
Gamla Laugin is open year-round, including winter. The pool is heated by natural geothermal activity, so the water remains warm even during freezing temperatures, making it a popular winter attraction.
Visitors should bring a swimsuit, a towel (though available for rent), and flip-flops or water shoes for comfort. It’s also advisable to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Gamla Laugin is located near several other attractions, such as the Golden Circle route, which includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, making it easy to combine with a day of sightseeing.
Why should you?
