- Water temperature stays at 38-40°C throughout the year, replaced completely every 24 hours by natural geothermal flow
- Located near Flúðir village, close to Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall
- Walking path around the pool lets you watch Litli Geysir spout every few minutes alongside other hot springs
Location and Getting There
The Secret Lagoon sits at Hverahólmi geothermal area near Flúðir, a village with 818 residents in Iceland's Southern Region. Flúðir is not far from Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall, making the lagoon a practical addition to Golden Circle itineraries.
The coordinates are 64° 8,238'N, 20° 18,557'W, and the address is Hvammsvegur - 845 Flúðir. Many visitors combine the lagoon with a Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour to cover multiple sights in one day.
If you are planning other day trips from Reykjavík, the Secret Lagoon works well with stops at nearby sights. These include Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.
Secret Lagoon Tickets and Tours
More on GetYourGuide
Top ratedBestsellerDay trip · 10 hoursFrom Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid, & Secret Lagoon Tour★ 4.8 6 554 reviews✓ Free cancellation✓ Pickup availableBooked 15 times yesterdayfrom €115 per personSee availability →
BestsellerEntry ticketIceland Secret Lagoon Admission Ticket★ 4.7 2 190 reviews✓ Free cancellationBooked 5 times yesterdayfrom €29 per personSee availability →
Day trip · 12 hoursReykjavík: Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon & Aurora Chase★ 4.8 5 reviews✓ Free cancellation✓ Pickup availableBooked 2 times yesterdayfrom €178 per personSee availability →Water Temperature and Geothermal Features
Three natural sources supply 100% of the lagoon's water: Vaðmálahver, Básahver, and Litli Geysir. The water stays at 38-40 Celsius throughout the year, rich in sulfur from the geothermal activity.
Water flows continuously through the pool, with complete replacement happening every 24 hours. Litli Geysir is an active geyser at the site that spouts every few minutes. You can see it from the walking path around the pool.
A walking path is built around the pool so you can safely watch the boiling springs and geothermal vents. In the old days, locals used Básahver for washing clothes due to the hot water supply.
- Natural setting with active geothermal features visible from the pool
- Steady water temperature year-round with continuous fresh geothermal flow
- Historic site with swimming tradition dating back to 1891
- Located not far from Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall
- Less crowded alternative to larger commercial lagoons
- Bistro serves only snacks and drinks, no warm meals available
- Traditional separate shower facilities may feel basic compared to modern spas
History and Cultural Role
Known locally as Gamla Laugin, the Secret Lagoon is Iceland's oldest swimming pool. It was made in 1891 and was the legislative body of the Flúðir community until 1894.
In 1909, the first swimming lessons in Iceland were held at Gamla Laugin, and then every year until 1947. From 1947, Gamla Laugin fell into many years of oblivion until restoration began.
Secret Lagoon celebrated its opening on the 7th of June 2014, bringing the historic pool back into service. The restoration preserved the natural character while adding necessary facilities for modern visitors.
Facilities and What to Bring
The showers are in traditional Icelandic style, separate for men and women. The Bistro offers snacks and drinks but does not serve warm meals. Plan accordingly if you are visiting during meal times.
You will need swimwear and a towel. Consider bringing flip-flops for walking between changing areas and the pool.
Check opening hours and current policies before you go. Check availability during peak summer months and holiday periods.
Compare prices, reviews and free-cancellation options before you book.
Check availability →Combining with Golden Circle Sights
The Secret Lagoon is located near Flúðir, not far from Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall. It fits naturally into a Golden Circle tour schedule.
A typical itinerary includes stops at Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Some tours also add Kerið crater to the route.
If you prefer more flexibility, consider self-drive tours that let you set your own pace. Alternatively, small group tours offer fixed schedules and guide commentary.
Secret Lagoon vs Other Hot Springs
Compared to the Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon offers a more rustic experience with natural surroundings rather than spa amenities. The Blue Lagoon is larger and has on-site restaurants, skin treatments, and modern changing rooms.
Other Iceland hot springs include Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík with ocean views. Mývatn Nature Baths is in the north. Hvammsvík Hot Springs is on the west coast.
| Feature | Secret Lagoon | Blue Lagoon |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 38-40°C | Check current information |
| Setting | Natural geothermal area | Lava field with modern facilities |
| On-site dining | Snacks and drinks only | Full restaurant options |
| Active geysers visible | Yes (Litli Geysir) | No |
| Historic site | Built 1891 | Modern development |
Compare prices, reviews and free-cancellation options before you book.
Check availability →Practical Tips for Your Visit
Check opening hours before you travel, as they may vary by season. Arrive early in the day during summer to avoid afternoon crowds, or visit in the evening for a quieter experience.
Dress in layers for the walk from changing rooms to the pool, especially in winter. Warm clothing is helpful for the short outdoor sections.
Many visitors stay to watch the geysers and enjoy the surroundings. If you are on a guided tour, your time will be scheduled as part of the itinerary.
For winter visits, consider pairing the lagoon with northern lights tours that depart in the evening. You can also explore other Iceland winter tours in the area.
Secret Lagoon offers a natural hot spring experience with historic character and active geothermal features. It is located not far from Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall. The trade-off is basic facilities and limited dining compared to larger spa lagoons. The natural setting and steady 38-40°C water make it a practical stop during sightseeing routes.
More tours to compare
More on GetYourGuide
Entry ticket · 9 hoursFrom Reykjavik: Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Day Tour★ 4.8 138 reviews✓ Free cancellation✓ Pickup availablefrom €137 per personSee availability →
Day trip · 9 hoursFrom Reykjavik: Golden Circle–Secret Lagoon Small-Group Tour✓ Free cancellationfrom €202 per personSee availability →
Private tour · 9 hoursGolden Circle: 6-Stop Private Tour with Secret Lagoon Visit★ 5.0 1 reviews✓ Free cancellation✓ Pickup availableAvailable tomorrowfrom €1,190 per groupSee availability →Frequently asked questions
What is the water temperature at Secret Lagoon?
The water stays at 38-40 Celsius year-round, supplied by three natural geothermal sources. The pool water is replaced completely every 24 hours through continuous flow.
How far is Secret Lagoon from Geysir and Gullfoss?
Secret Lagoon is located near Flúðir, not far from both Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall.
When was Secret Lagoon built?
The Secret Lagoon, known locally as Gamla Laugin, was made in 1891 and is Iceland's oldest swimming pool. From 1947, Gamla Laugin fell into many years of oblivion. Secret Lagoon celebrated its opening on the 7th of June 2014 after restoration.
What facilities are available at Secret Lagoon?
The showers are in traditional Icelandic style, separate for men and women. A walking path is built around the pool. The Bistro offers snacks and drinks but does not serve warm meals.
Can you see geysers at Secret Lagoon?
Yes, Litli Geysir spouts every few minutes and is visible from the pool and walking path. The lagoon sits in an active geothermal area with several hot springs and vents around the pool.
