Matkaopas: Krossneslaug

Krossneslaug is a geothermal pool located in the remote Strandir region of the Westfjords.

Explore a wide range of tours of the Westfjords.

Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Jóna Þórunn. No edits made.

Unlike many swimming pools in the region, Krossneslaug is heated by natural hot-springs; the rareness of such features in the Westfjords is due to the fact that this is the oldest part of the country, thus the least affected by the volcanic rift valley that runs through the centre of Iceland. At Krossneslaug, therefore, it is possible to embrace this unique aspect of Icelandic culture and nature more authentically than you would at many other locations in the region.

It is considered an ‘Infinity Pool’ due to the fact it has magnificent views of the ocean, with nothing impeding the view between the two waters. Looking out towards north Iceland, this makes Krossneslaug a fantastic place to spot some of the country’s unique wildlife.

Whales are occasionally seen breaking the surface and raising their flukes, most commonly Humpback Whales, and the area is inhabited by many seabirds and seals. You also have a slight chance to see dolphins.

Located in the tiny settlement of Krossnes, Krossneslaug is a fair distance from any major civilisation. The nearest villages of significance, Hólmavík and Drangsnes, are both over 100 kilometres away, requiring more than two hours of driving. Árneshreppur is much closer, but a hamlet of just 53 people with few amenities.

Because of this, and because of the dramatic, isolated surrounding nature of the Strandir region, many chose to camp here. Visits to the area are often combined with visits to the remote Hornstrandir, a long-uninhabited area of incredible natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

Krossneslaug is only accessible from mid-May to the end of August. Due to its northern position and icy roads for much of the year, this is considered the best time to visit the Westfjords altogether.