Guide de Voyage : Source Chaude de Reykjafjardarlaug

The Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring in the Westfjords has natural and artificial geothermal pools where visitors can soak in warm water and enjoy beautiful views of nature. 

The Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring is in a remote region, and there are no organized tours that stop here, a massive bonus for those looking to relax in solitude. A self-drive tour, such as this 10-day tour to the off-the-beaten-path locations in the Westfjords, allows you the flexibility to add Reykjafjardarlaug to your itinerary.

An artificial swimming pool and a natural spring are naturally heated by geothermal activity to between 90-113 degrees Fahrenheit (32-45 degrees Celsius). Reykjafjardarlaug has unobstructed fjord views offering the perfect relaxation amid picturesque surroundings. 

About the Reykjafjardarlaug Hot Spring

The Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring, Reykjafjarðarlaug in Icelandic, was built in 1975 by hard-working volunteers and has been a beloved attraction for visitors to the Westfjords since. 

There is a concrete swimming pool and a natural pool here. There are no reservations, and the attraction is free, although there is a donation box. Facilities are minimal besides the changing room next to the pool. 

The swimming pool is between four and six feet (1.2-1.8 meters) deep and hovers around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). The pool is large and offers excellent views of the mountains and fjord.

The nearby natural bathing pool is a steamy 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius). Rocks have been stacked up to help deepen the pool, making this a fantastic place for a rustic soak amid the nature of Iceland. 

There is no caretaker of these facilities, so leave no trace and take any garbage with you. Doing so allows visitors to continue enjoying and appreciating the pools' natural beauty. 

Getting to the Reykjafjardarlaug Hot Spring

The Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring is located on the Arnarfjordur fjord in the beautiful Westfjords. You'll find the bathing area about 12 miles (19.3 kilometers) from the town of Bildudalur. 

Those traveling in the most remote reaches of the Westfjords can easily stop at the hot springs for a relaxing soak. From Bildudalur, follow Route 63 southeast along the fjord until you see the Reykjafjardarlaug hot pool on the right-hand side of the road. 

The hot springs are in a less-visited region of the country, so you should have no issue finding parking and may even be the only visitors. 

The pool is located on the route between Dynjandi waterfall and the Latrabjarg cliffs, making it an easy stop as you travel through the Westfjords. 

Nearby Attractions

Iceland's Westfjords are teeming with natural beauty and historical sights, meaning you have no shortage of other attractions to choose from in the region. 

Dynjandi Waterfall

The imposing Dynjandi waterfall is considered the Jewel of the Westfjords and is the largest waterfall in the region, 27.7 miles (47.7 kilometers) from the Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring. It cascades an impressive 328 feet (100 meters) in a unique trapezoidal shape and is a must-see attraction for visitors in the area. 

There are two viewpoints for Dynjandi, both worth seeing. From the bottom, you get to understand the impressive power of the waterfall, and the short hike to the top of the waterfall allows you to get a closer view of the seven individual cascades that make up the falls.

Raudasandur Beach

A beach of many names, Raudasandur beach may go by the Icelandic versions, either Rauðisandur or Rauðasandur, but it is most commonly called the Red Sand Beach. 

True to its name, Raudasandur is characterized by its expanse of reddish gold sand. Red or gold sand is unique in Iceland, where the high levels of volcanic activity make most of the beaches black sand. 

You have a good chance of spotting seals at Raudasandur and other wildlife, such as all types of seabirds and, if you're lucky, whales. From May-September, you may see puffins, although you have a better chance of seeing them as they nest at the nearby Latrabjarg cliffs.

Raudasandur Beach is 47.4 miles (76.3 kilometers) from the Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring.

Latrabjarg Cliffs

A further 30 miles (49 kilometers) from Raudasandur beach are the towering Latrabjarg cliffs, the westernmost point of Iceland and all of Europe. Though their size and beauty are certainly awe-inspiring, these cliffs are best known for the millions of birds that make their nest here. 

Latrabjarg is one of the best bird-watching locations in the world, boasting millions of birds of various species. You will most commonly see Skuas, Arctic Terns, Guillemots, Eider Ducks, and Razorbills. From May-September, you may even spot Puffins. 

Isafjordur

Known as the capital of the Westfjords, Isafjordur, or Ísafjörður in Icelandic, is the only actual town in the region. With only 2,600 residents, this quaint town has some of the oldest buildings in the country and is an excellent base for your Westfjord travels, 60 miles (97.3 kilometers) from the Reykjafjardarlaug hot spring.

The town has all the necessary amenities, such as accommodations, grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and gas stations. There is also plenty to do in the town, including the Westfjords Heritage Museum, the Edinborgarhusid Cultural Center, and the Old Hospital, featuring artwork and exhibitions created by local artists.