Laugarás: Geothermal energy by the Hvítá

Laugarás lies on the banks of the Hvítá and combines a geothermal landscape with bathing facilities and historical sites in the surrounding area. What makes it an interesting destination is the combination: hot springs and greenhouses shape the town, while Laugarás Lagoon offers a specific bathing experience with warm and cold water. Slakki adds to the local leisure options; Skálholt and two nearby rivers offer further possibilities to explore while planning your stay.

A landscape shaped by geothermal energy

The Hverasvæðið geothermal area has a lake or pond formed by hot springs. A stream flows from it into the river at Launrétt. Laugarás itself lies on the banks of the Hvítá. The strong geothermal activity has also created conditions for numerous greenhouses and a distinctive ecosystem. The local geothermal activity can therefore be considered on two scales: at the spring area itself and as a defining factor in the greenhouses and ecosystem. The landscape is thus an integral part of the town’s character, not just a backdrop for a day of bathing.

Bathing and seasonal dining

Laugarás Lagoon is located in Laugarás near Iðubrú in Bláskógabyggð. The facility has a two-storey bathing area and steam baths, and is heated using geothermal energy from a spring in the town. There is also a cold pool filled with glacial water from the Hvítá. This means the same bathing facility offers both geothermal-heated areas and a cold pool with river water. This contrast is a distinctive feature of the Lagoon and can help you decide whether a visit suits your interests. Check the current information about the facilities before your visit.

The Ylja restaurant is also located at Laugarás Lagoon. Its varied menu is seasonal and focuses on ingredients from the surrounding area. If you would like to include the restaurant in your plans, check the current menu in advance, as the offerings are seasonal.

Other leisure options in Laugarás

Slakki in Laugarás is a petting zoo with a playground and a mini-golf course. Alongside the Lagoon’s bathing facilities, it offers a different kind of leisure activity: animal encounters, play and mini-golf. When choosing your destination, you can consider whether you are most interested in the bathing facilities, Slakki, or both.

History and nature in the surrounding area

Nearby Skálholt was a centre of Icelandic social life from the mid-11th century until the end of the 18th century. For about 750 years, it was considered a kind of capital of Iceland. The museum in Skálholt includes the stone sarcophagus of Bishop Páll Jónsson, who died in 1211. The site’s long-standing role and this specific museum object offer two different ways to explore history: a broad overview spanning centuries and the story of an individual from the history of the bishops.

Nearby nature experiences may also factor into your choice: the nearby salmon river Iða and the Brúará offer opportunities for fishing. If fishing is part of your plans, check the seasonal and permit requirements that apply to your visit.

Discover more destinations: Háfur, Kálfafell, Þykkvibær, Hella, Hruni, Ólafsvellir, Selfoss, Búðarhólshverfi

For the broader travel overview: Sudurland.