Laugarvatn is a small village by the lake of the same name, best known for the Fontana Geothermal Spa and its convenient location for exploring the Golden Circle's many landmarks.
Laugarvatn is located in South Iceland, approximately 56 miles (93 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. A village that only about 200 people call home, Laugarvatn is popular among travelers for its proximity to the sights and landmarks of the Golden Circle and the Fontana Spa found right in the village.
Rolling hills, lava fields, and a lush green countryside surround Laugarvatn, with brooks and streams adding to its serene atmosphere. In summer, it becomes a seasonal resort with many great accommodations in Laugarvatn nearby.
Guests can enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Laugarvatn, visit the geothermal spa, and explore nearby attractions like Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and the historic bishop seat of Skalholt.
If you're planning a stop in Laugarvatn, read on for everything you need to know to get the most out of your visit.
Key Things To Know About Laugarvatn, Iceland
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Laugarvatn is slightly off the beaten path on the Golden Circle, making it a calm detour amidst a busy sightseeing schedule.
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Driving or joining a guided tour is the best way to get to Laugarvatn.
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The best time to visit Laugarvatn is in summer when you have more options for accommodation and activities in the area.
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Laugarvatn Fontana is open all year round, but the opening hours can change during holidays and special events.
How To Get to Laugarvatn
Renting a car and driving to Laugarvatn is your best bet, as there are no direct bus routes between the village and Reykjavik. If bussing in is your only option, you can take route nr. 51 and then transfer to nr. 73.
Laugarvatn sits directly between Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir Geothermal Area on the Golden Circle. The former is a natural wonderland between two tectonic plates with crystal-clear streams and unique volcanic geology. The latter is home to the geysers of Geysir and Strokkur, as well as dozens of other hot springs and fumaroles.
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths (Fontana Spa)
Geothermal springs dot the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, so building a spa here was only a matter of time. Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths Spa includes a geothermal swimming pool and three steam rooms that sit directly over bubbling hot pots with nearly 100 percent humidity.
The spa also features a Finnish-style sauna and three interconnected mineral baths. The stone artwork of artist Erla Þórarinsdóttir decorates the exterior of the pool. You can experience the space by purchasing a ticket or experiencing it as part of a Golden Circle day tour.
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths are smaller and more affordable than other geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon. The spa's unique selling point is the option to go for a refreshing dip in the lake, alternating hot steam treatments with the cool waters of Lake Laugarvatn.
In addition to the geothermal bathing experience, the Fontana Spa offers daily tours of their geothermal bakery, where visitors can taste traditional Icelandic rye bread baked using geothermal heat. Children 12 years old and younger may attend for free.
The snack bar on-site has food options for bathers that usually include soup, bagels, and skyr with granola, all prepared fresh daily.
If you’re interested in visiting other naturally heated lagoons, the Secret Lagoon is only a 30-minute drive from Laugarvatn, so it’s easy to add a visit to your Golden Circle adventures.
Things To Do in Laugarvatn
Lake Laugarvatn is a shallow lake rich in aquatic life and fishing opportunities. You need a permit to fish here, but once you have one, you can catch char and lake trout. Equipment rentals for boating and water sports are available in the summer when the weather permits.
Laugarvatn has several hiking trails and routes suitable for families. Hike up Laugarvatnsfjall Mountain to the area known as Storagil Vestra to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. There's also a forested running trail at the foot of Laugarvatnsfjall Mountain that provides a moderately challenging, pleasant hiking experience.
Gallery Laugarvatn features exhibits of Icelandic handicrafts. It also offers a small bed-and-breakfast.
Amenities and Accommodation in Laugarvatn
Laugarvatn is a small village, so the amenities it offers are basic, including a gas station, a shop, a restaurant, and a hotel bar. There are a few options for accommodation in Laugarvatn, the most notable of which is the boarding school that functions as a popular hotel, Hotel Edda, in the summer.
Several guesthouses, hostels, rental apartments, and cottages provide additional lodging. Here are some highly rated options:
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Braedraborg Summerhouse — Enjoy peace and serenity at this picturesque summerhouse with room for four guests, a short distance from Laugarvatn.
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House in Laugarvatn — Relax in a spacious vacation home for 11 with family-friendly amenities including a hot tub, trampoline, and sandbox.
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Bjork Guesthouse — Enjoy Laugarvatn Fontana Spa and be near several bucket-list attractions with this excellent guesthouse.
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Heradsskolinn Historic Guesthouse — Located in a renovated historical school building, right next to Lake Laugarvatn in the Golden Circle area, with options ranging from dorms to private rooms with an en-suite bathroom.
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Hotel Laugarvatn — Stay close to the top attractions and relax in cozy rooms with private bathrooms, scenic lake vistas, and proximity to Iceland's most iconic landscapes.
If you’re interested in camping around Iceland, Laugarvatn Camping Ground is a spacious campsite close to the village store and restaurants.
Self-Drive Tours to Laugarvatn
If you're looking for a structured itinerary, many self-drive tours include exploration of the Golden Circle region and the ability to add a stop at Laugarvatn. Here are our top recommendations:
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6-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon — Explore some of Iceland's top attractions and visit as many geothermal baths on the way as you want.
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1-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland & Golden Circle — Enjoy summer in Iceland while marveling at the Golden Circle landmarks and the natural beauty of South Iceland.
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7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour Through the Golden Circle and South Iceland — Experience the winter magic of the Golden Circle and a unique opportunity to relax in geothermal baths in wintertime.
Laugarvatn FAQs
Here are some more commonly asked questions about Laugarvatn to help you plan your trip.
1. What are the best times of year to visit Laugarvatn for different types of travelers?
Laugarvatn is great to visit at any time of year, depending on what you’re looking to do. Here are our recommendations for each season:
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Summer (June–August): Ideal for families and hikers, with mild weather, long daylight hours, and open trails.
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Autumn (September–October): Quieter, with beautiful fall colors and a better chance to see the northern lights.
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Winter (November–March): Great for soaking in hot pools under snowy skies and catching the aurora, though some hiking trails may be inaccessible.
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Spring (April–May): A peaceful time with fewer tourists and blooming nature.
2. How accessible is Laugarvatn for travelers with limited mobility?
Laugarvatn is relatively accessible, especially the Fontana Geothermal Baths, which include ramps and facilities for visitors with mobility challenges. However, many hiking paths or outdoor sites are not paved or wheelchair-friendly.
3. Are there any notable local dining experiences in Laugarvatn?
Laugarvatn has many great options for comfort food, perfect for indulging after a day of exploring. Laugarvatn is a 20-minute drive from the Fridheimar Farm, famous for their tomato soup, and it's on the must-visit list for many travelers.
4. Is Laugarvatn a good place to see the northern lights?
Laugarvatn’s low light pollution and open skies make it a great spot for viewing the northern lights from autumn through early spring. The lakeside and surrounding hills offer dark, clear vantage points.
5. What wildlife might visitors encounter around Laugarvatn?
Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting a variety of species, especially near the lake and surrounding wetlands. Common sightings include whooper swans, arctic terns, and various ducks. In nearby forests and hills, you might spot arctic foxes, if you’re lucky.
Plan Your Relaxing Getaway to Laugarvatn
Whether you're after a relaxing geothermal bath experience or hiking in serene natural surroundings, Laugarvatn is the perfect spot to rest and recharge. Its location right on the Golden Circle makes it an ideal home base for exploring the region.
With its rich history, cultural experiences, and beautiful landscapes, Laugarvatn provides a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Start planning your next trip with a great vacation package today.
