Laugaland Hot Springs Travel Guide

Laugaland, also known as Varmaland, is a geothermal area with hot springs hidden in the beautiful region of West Iceland. 

Few tours pass by Laugaland, but this shouldn't stop you from exploring the area. Travelers can add Laugaland during their private tours, such as the Tour of West Iceland from Reykjavik, Sightseeing Tour of West Iceland from Reykjavik, or this West Iceland and Ice Cave Tour. 

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Helgi Halldorsson. No edits made. 

Laugaland lies in West Iceland, at Borgarfjordur, a district and a large geothermal area in Iceland. The hot springs are also near Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, which makes it easy to travel to this hidden wonder.  

About Laugaland Hot Spring

Laugaland hot springs are the natural manifestation of the geothermal system present in the Borgarfjordur area. Due to the high geothermal activity in the area, the temperature of Laugaland hot springs can range from around 176 - 206 F (80 - 97 C). 

As such, they are not suitable for bathing.

Laugaland is unique and famous due to its location. However, it's also an ideal location for adventurous people due to its many hiking routes. In fact, to better enjoy the waters of Laugaland, travelers are advised to explore those routes before taking a dip. 

Aside from its waters, Laugaland is also home to several exotic and rare plants and animals. Bird-watching and photography are popular activities in the area. If you're lucky enough, you may even get a glimpse of an Arctic fox in the area. 

Laugaland and Its Community

Laugaland is more than just its hot springs, it's also a community. In fact, it's a prime example of a community that grew and developed around a geothermal area. 

The first structure established in Laugaland is a geothermal pool. In the 1940s, the Laugaland greenhouse farm is established, utilizing the area's heating. Since then, the community has grown to have a new school, adventure parks, and more swimming pools. 

Laugaland Hot Spring Location

Laugaland is located between Reykjavik and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Reykjavik is around 61 miles (98 kilometers) south of the Laugaland, while the Snaefellsjokull glacier is around 89 miles (144 kilometers) away. Meanwhile, the nearest village to Laugaland, Borgarnes, is located southwest, about 14 miles (22 kilometers) away. 

Directions to Laugaland Hot Spring 

Getting to Laugaland hot springs is easy, especially with self-drives. 

Foreign travelers arriving at Keflavik International Airport can take a direct bus to Reykjavik, rent a car, and drive to Laugaland. 

From Reykjavik, drive through Route 1 until you reach Hvalfjordur Tunnel, allowing you to travel to Borgarnes town easily. From Borgarnes, continue going through Route 1 until you reach the Borgarfjardarbraut road and turn left.

Continue driving on this road, and after around 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers), turn left to Road 527 until you reach Laugaland. 

Exciting Locations Around Laugaland Hot Spring

West Iceland is one of the most geologically diverse parts of the country. Thus, travelers to Laugaland hot springs can optimize their stay in the area by visiting other exciting attractions nearby.

Travelers who want to continue their travel north can return to Road 1 and marvel at some nearby attractions on the way. 

Two waterfalls are located north of the hot springs, Laxfoss and Glanni. Laxfoss, a small but beautiful waterfall, is only 8 miles (14 kilometers) away. Further north is Glanni waterfall, which according to the local stories, is the home of elves and trolls. 

Grabrok, a volcanic crater formed thousands of years ago, is another exciting attraction. This volcanic crater is only 10 miles (17 kilometers) north of the hot springs and is a popular hiking destination.