Reisgids voor Fludir Village

Add Fludir to your South Iceland itinerary if you want a quieter place to stay near the Golden Circle without staying directly on its main route. The village is best known for the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest geothermal swimming pool, and it works well as an overnight stop between sightseeing days.

Fludir sits just south of the main Golden Circle route, which makes it a practical base for travelers planning to join Golden Circle tours or independent visits around peak hours. Staying here allows easier timing at major sights such as Gullfoss Waterfalls, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park, with less congestion than larger hubs.

The village also suits travelers on self-drive tours in South Iceland. There are plenty of accommodations in Fludir, which makes it easy to explore the surrounding region with rental cars. Fludir is often included on hot spring tours that feature the Secret Lagoon, and the village also serves as a starting point for horseback riding tours.

The sections below explain how to get to Fludir, what to see and do, where to eat and stay, and which nearby attractions are easiest to reach. Continue reading to see how Fludir fits into a well-paced South Iceland itinerary.

Essential Traveler Information for Visiting Fludir

• Location: Fludir is a small village in South Iceland, located just south of the main Golden Circle route.

• Drive time: The drive from Reykjavik takes about one hour and 30 minutes in normal conditions.

• Main attraction: The Secret Lagoon is the village’s main highlight and the oldest geothermal swimming pool in Iceland.

• Golden Circle access: Fludir sits close to major Golden Circle sights, including the Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss Waterfall, with typical drive times of about 25 to 30 minutes.

• Accommodation: Lodging options include hotels, guesthouses, private villas, and a campsite.

• Services: Basic traveler services such as groceries, fuel, and a pharmacy are available in the village.

Why Visit Fludir

Fludir is worth visiting if you want a quieter base near the Golden Circle with access to geothermal bathing, local food, and flexible sightseeing times. It suits travelers who prefer a calmer setting while remaining close to major attractions in Iceland.

Fludir is a small village in Hrunamannahreppur in South Iceland, shaped by geothermal energy and greenhouse horticulture. The Litla-Laxa River runs through the village, and Midfell Mountain rises nearby, shaping the immediate landscape around Fludir.

Because Fludir sits just south of the main Golden Circle route, staying here allows you to visit Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir Geothermal Area at less crowded times of day. It also provides easy access to the Secret Lagoon and creates a natural transition toward the South Coast, reducing the need to backtrack on longer itineraries.

How To Get to Fludir

Fludir is located about 62 miles (100 kilometers) east of Reykjavik and is easy to reach by car. From Reykjavik, drive south on Route 1 (Ring Road) toward the town of Selfoss. After passing through town, turn left onto Route 30 (Skeida-og Hrunamannavegur) and follow it directly into Fludir. This is the fastest and most commonly used route.

In normal conditions, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, which makes it a practical stop on a South Iceland or Golden Circle itinerary. If you prefer a more scenic approach, you can take Route 35, which passes Kerid Crater before connecting to Route 30. This option adds visual interest without significantly increasing driving time.

The roads to Fludir, including Route 1 and Route 30, are fully paved and well-maintained. Fludir is also well positioned near major Golden Circle sights. It sits about 25 minutes from the Geysir Geothermal Area and 30 minutes from Gullfoss Waterfall. Thingvellir National Park is roughly 1 hour away (43 miles or 70 kilometers).

During winter in Iceland, roads are cleared regularly, but conditions can change quickly due to snow, ice, or strong winds. From November to March, travelers should rent four-wheel-drive vehicles and always check real-time road conditions and weather updates before setting out.

Top 5 Things To Do in Fludir

Fludir may be small, but it offers a varied mix of activities that go beyond a single hot spring visit. The village and its immediate surroundings support cultural events, outdoor recreation, and low-key experiences that work well between major Golden Circle stops or as part of an overnight stay.

The following list highlights the most worthwhile things to do in Fludir, covering seasonal festivals, local culture, outdoor activities, and natural attractions. These experiences are easy to combine within a short visit and reflect both everyday village life and the landscape around it.

5. Experience Fludir um Verslo During the Summer Festival

If you visit Fludir in early August, you may arrive during Fludir um Verslo, the village’s main annual festival held over Verslunarmannahelgi, Iceland’s August bank holiday weekend. It is a family-oriented local celebration that reflects Fludir’s agricultural roots and community life.

The most recognizable feature of the festival is the tractor parade, where local farmers drive both vintage and modern tractors through the village streets. Other activities usually include informal live music, small market stalls selling local produce and crafts, and games for children held in village parks.

Travelers should expect higher visitor numbers during this weekend, and accommodation often fills quickly. While the atmosphere is lively, it remains focused on families and locals, offering a chance to see a side of rural Iceland that is not usually visible outside holiday weekends.

4. Enjoy Sports and Local Recreation in Fludir

Fludir offers a surprisingly wide range of outdoor sports for a village of its size, which makes it easy to stay active. Most activities are close to the village center and work well for travelers who want something relaxed rather than highly structured, including those visiting Iceland with kids.

Selsvollur Golf Course is a scenic 18-hole course set against open farmland and distant mountains, offering a relaxed way to experience golf in Iceland in a quiet rural setting. For something more casual, footgolf at Markavollur combines elements of soccer and golf and is especially popular with families.

In the center of the village, frisbee golf at Laekjargardur Park provides a quick and free outdoor activity that is easy to fit into your day. The public swimming pool is another local option and reflects how swimming pools in Iceland are part of daily life, offering hot tubs, swimming lanes, and play areas for children.

3. Hike Up Midfell Mountain for Panoramic Views

Midfell Mountain rises just outside Fludir and offers a short, direct route to elevated views above the village. The ascent is brief but steep, giving you a sense of climbing without requiring a long or technical hike.

From the top, you can see across Fludir Village, the winding Litla-Laxa River, and the broad agricultural plains of South Iceland. The open summit provides a clear perspective on the valley and the surrounding farmland.

This hike suits travelers staying overnight in Fludir or anyone looking for a quiet, nature-focused break away from the busier Golden Circle stops. It fits best into a relaxed itinerary rather than a tightly scheduled sightseeing loop.

2. Ride Icelandic Horses Through the Fludir Countryside

A horse riding tour in Fludir offers a chance to experience the Icelandic horse and its distinctive gait while moving through open farmland and volcanic terrain. The routes follow quiet countryside paths, with wide views that highlight the rural character of South Iceland.

You can take shorter guided rides, such as this one-hour horse riding trip, as well as longer excursions, allowing you to choose an option that fits easily into your schedule. The pace is relaxed, with an emphasis on enjoying the landscape rather than covering long distances.

These rides are well-suited to beginners and families, including travelers with little or no prior riding experience. The horses are known for their calm temperament, and the focus remains on comfort, safety, and a close connection to the surrounding landscape rather than technical riding skills.

1. Soak in the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)

A Secret Lagoon ticket gives access to the signature experience in Fludir and is the main reason many travelers stop here. Opened in 1891, the Secret Lagoon is the oldest swimming pool in the country and remains one of the most natural geothermal bathing spots in Iceland.

Unlike the milky blue water of larger spa lagoons, the pool is filled with clear geothermal water, surrounded by steaming vents and a small bubbling geyser that erupts regularly just steps from the edge. The setting feels simple and atmospheric rather than curated, with wooden walkways and open views of the surrounding countryside.

The water temperature stays consistently between 100 F and 104 F (38 C and 40 C) throughout the year, which makes the lagoon comfortable to visit in all seasons. Facilities are basic but functional, with changing rooms, showers, and a small on-site cafe available to visitors.

Discover Attractions Near Fludir

Fludir puts you within easy reach of some of South Iceland’s most striking landscapes, from quiet hot springs to major Golden Circle landmarks. Using Fludir as an overnight base allows you to visit many of these sites during off-peak hours, avoiding the tour bus traffic from Reykjavik.

The following attractions are all within a short drive of the village:

• Hrunalaug Natural Hot Spring: About 5 minutes from Fludir, this tiny stone-walled pool sits in a green valley. Visitors are expected to pay a small maintenance fee and stay on marked paths to help protect the area.

• Bruarhlod Canyon: Reached in around 10 minutes, this narrow canyon along the Hvita River features dark volcanic rock and swirling turquoise water. It is a quiet and visually striking stop that is often visited as part of a whitewater rafting tour from Fludir.

• Skalholt Cathedral: Located about 10 minutes away, this historic site once served as Iceland’s religious and cultural center. Today, you can visit a modern cathedral and a replica turf-roofed church.

• Faxi Waterfall: Just 15 minutes from the village, this wide and powerful waterfall offers a calmer atmosphere than nearby Gullfoss. A visible salmon ladder adds an extra point of interest.

• Laugaras Lagoon: Located about 15 minutes from Fludir, this geothermal bathing site offers a modern alternative to smaller natural pools. A Laugaras Lagoon ticket is required for entry.

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Around 25 minutes away, this famous site is home to Strokkur Geyser, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes.

• Kerid Crater: Reached in 25 to 30 minutes, this volcanic crater stands out for its red slopes and vivid blue lake. A Kerid Crater ticket is required to enter the site.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: One of the most visited waterfalls in Iceland. Located about 30 minutes from Fludir, it is often quieter at sunrise or sunset when approached from the south.

• Thingvellir National Park: About 1 hour away, this UNESCO World Heritage Site allows you to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and snorkel in the Silfra Fissure.

Where To Eat in Fludir

Fludir is often associated with Iceland’s greenhouse industry, and this is reflected in the availability of locally grown ingredients in several restaurants. While the village is small, it offers a limited but varied selection of places to eat, covering both Icelandic dishes and a few international options.

The following restaurants are located in or very near Fludir and can be visited alongside sightseeing in the area:

• Farmers Bistro (Fludasveppir): One of the best-known restaurants in Fludir, connected to Iceland’s only commercial mushroom farm. The menu focuses on mushroom-based dishes, with soup and freshly baked bread. The restaurant is attached to a greenhouse, which uses geothermal energy.

• Restaurant Minilik: A well-regarded local restaurant serving Ethiopian cuisine in a casual setting. The menu includes traditional injera bread and spiced stews, offering a different dining option compared to typical Icelandic fare.

• Restaurant Hotel Fludir: A more traditional dining option associated with the local hotel. The menu centers on Icelandic ingredients such as lamb, fish, and vegetables sourced from nearby farms and greenhouses.

• The Star Restaurant: An Asian-style restaurant located in the village center, offering a range of familiar dishes and generous portions. It is often chosen for convenience and variety.

• Kaffi-Sel Restaurant: Situated near the golf course, this informal spot serves pizza, burgers, and simple meals. It is commonly visited by families and travelers looking for a relaxed setting.

• Kaffihus Grund: A small cafe offering coffee, homemade cakes, and light lunches. It works well as a short stop during the day rather than a full meal destination.

• Fridheimar Tomato Farm: Located a short drive from Fludir, Fridheimar is a well-known restaurant and greenhouse that focuses on tomato-based dishes served directly inside the growing area. A reservation at Fridheimar is required due to high demand, especially during peak travel seasons.

Where To Stay in Fludir

Fludir works well as a base for exploring South Iceland, especially for travelers looking for accommodations near the Golden Circle without staying directly on its main route. Options in Fludir include hotels, guesthouses, and a well-equipped campsite, all within a compact area.

The following places to stay are located in or very near Fludir:

• The Hill Hotel: A small hotel set slightly above the village, with open views across the surrounding farmland. It is often chosen for its quiet setting and short driving distances to local attractions.

• Gardar Stay Inn: A modern stay-inn with a clean, minimalist design typical of contemporary Icelandic accommodation. Its central location suits couples or solo travelers planning short stays.

• Guesthouse Fludir: A traditional guesthouse providing simple rooms and a more personal atmosphere. It is often preferred by travelers looking for a smaller, low-key place to stay.

• Fludir Camping (Tjaldmidstodin Fludum): A well-known campsite in South Iceland offering Wi-Fi, electricity, toilets, and showers. Open from May to September, the site is located near the Litla-Laxa River and a short drive from the Secret Lagoon and village services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fludir

This section answers some of the most common questions travelers ask when planning a visit to Fludir, covering practical details, local highlights, and how the village fits into a South Iceland itinerary.

How do you pronounce Fludir?

Fludir is pronounced “Flu-thir.” The Icelandic letter ð sounds like a soft “th,” similar to the sound in the English words weather or those.

Is there a waterfall in Fludir?

There is no waterfall inside the village itself. Nearby options include Faxi Waterfall, reached in about 15 minutes, and Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, around 30 minutes away.

Can you see the northern lights in Fludir?

Fludir is a good location for northern lights viewing due to low light pollution. Clear nights between September and April offer the best chances, especially outside the village center.

Is the Secret Lagoon better than the Blue Lagoon?

The two lagoons offer different experiences. The Secret Lagoon focuses on a natural, historic setting at a lower cost, while the Blue Lagoon is a larger spa with modern facilities and a more curated atmosphere.

What food is Fludir known for?

Fludir is known for geothermally grown mushrooms and greenhouse vegetables. The village also has a small selection of restaurants offering both Icelandic and international dishes.

How far is Fludir from the Golden Circle?

Fludir lies just south of the main Golden Circle route. The Geysir Geothermal Area can be reached in about 25 minutes, and Gullfoss Waterfall in around 30 minutes, which makes the village a practical overnight base.

What services are available in Fludir?

Fludir offers essential traveler services, including a grocery store, fuel station, pharmacy, restaurants, and accommodation. Most services are clustered near the village center.

How long should you stay in Fludir?

Most travelers stay one night, which allows time to visit the Secret Lagoon and nearby Golden Circle attractions at less crowded hours. Longer stays work well for relaxed travel or winter visits focused on hot springs and northern lights.

Add Fludir to Your South Iceland Itinerary

Fludir offers a calm alternative to the busiest stops along the Golden Circle, combining geothermal bathing, greenhouse-based food culture, and convenient access to nearby highlights in South Iceland. Its small size keeps logistics simple, while its location supports better timing at popular attractions.

For self-drive travelers, Fludir works well as an overnight base or a planned pause along the route, allowing for a more flexible schedule without straying far off course. With its mix of local life, practical services, and natural surroundings, Fludir fits naturally into a well-paced Iceland itinerary.

From Fludir, it is easy to continue south toward the South Coast, including stops at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and the village of Vik. This route allows travelers to transition naturally from inland sightseeing to coastal landscapes, waterfalls, and seaside towns.