Visiting Iceland doesn’t have to mean spending a small fortune on spa tickets. In fact, some of the country’s most authentic geothermal experiences are completely free — and easily reachable with a Thrifty rental car. If you want to soak in warm, naturally heated pools surrounded by mountains, lava fields, or remote highland scenery, these budget-friendly stops are perfect additions to your road trip itinerary.
Here are 7 free (or donation-based) hot springs every thrifty traveller should know about — no spa price tag required.
1. Reykjadalur Hot Spring River – Steam Valley Bliss
Just a 40-minute drive from Reykjavík, Reykjadalur (“Steam Valley”) is one of Iceland’s most popular natural hot springs and one of the easiest geothermal hikes to add to a self-drive itinerary. The hot spring isn’t a single pool — it’s a naturally heated river, fed by geothermal vents and hot water flowing down from the Hengill volcanic system.
To reach it, you’ll hike 3 km (45–60 minutes) from the official parking area in Hveragerði. The trail climbs steadily through geothermal terrain with steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and panoramic valley views. At the top, wooden boardwalks lead you to the bathing section of the warm river, where temperatures vary from 35–40°C depending on how far upstream you sit.
Key things to know:
- Parking is paid, and facilities include toilets at the trailhead only — nothing at the river.
- The trail is well-marked but can be slippery in rain or winter.
- The river is natural, so always test the temperature before entering.
- Bathing is free and open year-round, with summer offering the safest conditions.
- Early morning or late evening provides the quietest experience (in Summer, where daylight is longer).
Reykjadalur is the perfect free alternative to paid geothermal spas and a must-visit for travellers who want a classic Icelandic hot spring experience without spending extra.
- How to get to Reykjadalur Hot Spring in Iceland?
Location: Hveragerði, South Iceland
Distance from Reykjavík: ~45 km
Drive Time: 40 minutes1. Start from Reykjavík
- Take Route 1 (Ring Road) heading east toward Hveragerði.
- The drive is straightforward with paved roads the entire way.
2. Enter Hveragerði
- As you approach the town, look for signs directing you to Reykjadalur / Hot Spring River.
- Turn left onto Breiðamörk and follow the road inland.
3. Continue to the Reykjadalur Parking Area
- Drive to the end of the valley until you reach the designated Reykjadalur car park.
- Paid parking is required, and the lot has toilets but no showers.
4. Begin the Hike to the Hot Spring River
- From the parking area, follow the marked trail.
- The hike is 3 km each way, taking 45–60 minutes depending on pace.
- The path climbs steadily through geothermal landscapes with steam vents and valley views.
5. Reach the Bathing Area
- Wooden boardwalks lead to the warm river section, where you can choose a spot depending on preferred water temperature (warmer upstream, cooler downstream).
2. Seljavallalaug – Iceland’s Historic Pool
Hidden between steep mountains below Eyjafjallajökull, Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest man-made swimming pools in Iceland, built in 1923 and fed by a naturally warm geothermal stream. The water sits at around 20–35°C, making it warm but not as hot as most natural hot springs — ideal for a relaxing soak with dramatic scenery all around.
From the small gravel parking area, the pool is an easy 10–15 minute walk along a marked path that follows the valley. The surrounding cliffs create a sheltered, peaceful atmosphere, and the area is usually quiet outside of peak summer.
Key details to know:
- The pool is free, though donations help with upkeep.
- There are no official changing facilities — only a basic open structure.
- The pool is not cleaned regularly, so algae on the walls is normal.
- Best visited in summer or early autumn when access is easier and conditions are dry.
- The water is shallow in places and varies in temperature depending on recent weather.
Seljavallalaug offers a unique, atmospheric geothermal experience that feels far more authentic than a modern spa — perfect for travellers seeking history, scenery and a free stop along Iceland’s South Coast.
- How to get to Seljavallalaug in Iceland?
Location: Near Skógafoss, South Iceland
Distance from Reykjavík: ~150 km
Drive Time: ~2 hours1. Start from Reykjavík
- Drive east on Route 1 (Ring Road) toward Vík.
- Pass through Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, and continue toward Skógafoss.
2. Turn Toward Seljavellir
- After passing Skógafoss, watch for a sign marked “Raufarfell / Seljavellir.”
- Turn left onto the small gravel road 249 (not the F-road to Þórsmörk — this is a different 249).
3. Continue to the Parking Area
- Follow the gravel road straight to the Seljavallalaug parking lot at the end of the valley.
- Parking is free, and the area has no facilities other than the trail access.
4. Walk to the Pool
- From the parking area, follow the obvious footpath into the valley.
- The walk is 10–15 minutes, easy and mostly flat.
- You’ll follow the river until the pool appears at the base of the mountains.
5. Reach Seljavallalaug
- The pool is tucked against the mountainside, fed by a warm geothermal stream.
- There is a simple changing structure on site, but no showers or services.
3. Landbrotalaug – The Tiny Hot Pot for Two
Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Landbrotalaug is one of Iceland’s smallest and most charming natural hot pots. The main pool fits only one or two people, creating a cosy, intimate experience surrounded by quiet farmland, lava fields and distant mountain views. Water temperature is usually around 36–40°C, making it pleasantly warm year-round.
A short walk from the small parking area leads you to the hot pot, tucked away in the moss-covered landscape. Because of its size, it often requires waiting your turn — but the peaceful atmosphere makes it worth the stop.
Key things to know:
- The hot pot is free and open to respectful visitors.
- Access is easiest in summer, as the track can become muddy in winter.
- There are no facilities, so come prepared and leave no trace.
- Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting and fewest people.
- Nearby geothermal streams sometimes create shallow warm pools, but the main hot pot is the most reliable for soaking.
Landbrotalaug is perfect for travellers who want a short, scenic stop on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and a completely natural soaking experience — without paying spa prices.
- How to get to Landbrotalaug?
Location: Near Stóra-Vatnshorn, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Distance from Reykjavík: ~120 km
Drive Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes1. Start from Reykjavík
- Take Route 1 (Ring Road) north toward Borgarnes.
- Continue through the Hvalfjörður Tunnel.
2. Turn onto Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- After Borgarnes, take Route 54 (Snæfellsnesvegur) toward Grundarfjörður and Stykkishólmur.
3. Navigate to the Hot Pot Access Road
- Just before arriving at Stóra-Vatnshorn Farm, look for a small gravel turnoff.
- This turnoff is not signposted, so watch your map closely.
4. Drive to the Parking Spot
- Follow the short gravel track to a small informal parking area near the pond.
- Roads can be muddy in winter — summer access is easiest.
5. Walk to Landbrotalaug
- The hot pot is a 2–3 minute walk from the car park.
- It’s hidden behind low mossy ridges; look for the small, stone-lined pool.
4. Hellulaug – Warm Seaside Soaking in the Westfjords
Hellulaug is a natural shoreline hot spring located near Flókalundur in the southern Westfjords, offering one of Iceland’s most relaxing oceanfront geothermal experiences. The pool sits right at the edge of the fjord, carved into the rocky coastline, and stays warm at around 38–40°C year-round thanks to a steady flow of geothermal water.
The hot spring is only a few steps down from the small roadside parking area, making it one of the easiest natural pools to access in the Westfjords. With calm fjord views, quiet surroundings and no commercial development, it delivers a truly authentic soak.
Key things to know:
- Free to visit and open all year.
- No changing facilities — expect a simple, natural environment.
- Works well with Ring Road itineraries that include a detour into the Westfjords.
- Best visited in summer, when roads in the region are fully open.
- The pool is shallow but comfortably warm, even on cold or windy days.
Hellulaug offers a peaceful, scenic geothermal experience without any of the spa crowds — perfect for budget travellers exploring the raw beauty of the Westfjords.
- How to get to Hellulaug?
Location: Near Flókalundur Hotel and Campground
Distance from Reykjavík: ~230 km (via ferry) or ~360 km by road
Drive Time: 3.5–5 hours depending on route1. Drive Toward the Southern Westfjords
- From Reykjavík, take Route 1 north to Búðardalur.
- Turn onto Route 60, which leads into the Westfjords.
2. Continue Toward Flókalundur
- Stay on Route 60 until you reach Flókalundur, a small settlement with a hotel and campground.
3. Find the Shoreline Car Park
- Hellulaug is located just below the main road, close to the coastline.
- A small sign and gravel pull-off mark the parking area.
4. Walk Down to the Pool
- From the car park, walk 30–60 seconds down the slope to the shoreline.
- The hot spring is carved into the rocks right by the sea.
5. Pollurinn in Tálknafjörður – Local Favourite
Pollurinn, located near Tálknafjörður in the Westfjords, is a set of three man-made geothermal tubs that offer steady warm temperatures and some of the calmest fjord views in Iceland. Heated by natural hot water from the surrounding geothermal area, the tubs typically sit between 38–42°C, making them ideal for year-round soaking.
These tubs are popular with both locals and travellers, but the atmosphere remains peaceful thanks to the remote setting. The tubs are positioned on a small hillside, giving you clear views of the fjord and surrounding mountains while you relax.
Key things to know:
- Free to use and maintained for public enjoyment.
- Parking is right next to the tubs, with easy access.
- Basic changing facilities are available nearby.
- Best visited in summer or early autumn, when Westfjords roads are fully open.
- Warm enough to enjoy even in cooler weather.
Pollurinn is a favourite among budget-conscious travellers because it offers a hot-spring experience that feels local, scenic and authentically Icelandic — without any entrance fee.
- How to get to Pollurinn in the Westfjords of Iceland?
Location: Overlooking Tálknafjörður fjord
Distance from Reykjavík: ~400 km
Drive Time: 5–6 hours1. Drive into the Westfjords Region
- Start on Route 1, then turn north onto Route 60 toward Patreksfjörður.
2. Head Toward Tálknafjörður
- Turn onto Route 63, leading directly to the fjordside village of Tálknafjörður.
3. Find the Geothermal Tubs
- Just before entering the town, look for signs to “Pollurinn Hot Pots.”
- A short gravel road leads directly to the parking area beside the tubs.
4. Walk to the Tubs
- The hot pots are right next to the parking area, requiring no hike.
6. Kúalaug – A Cosy Double Hot Pot
Kúalaug is a pair of small natural hot pots located close to the Golden Circle, making it one of the easiest free geothermal stops to add to a self-drive day trip. The two pools sit beside a quiet stream and maintain steady warm temperatures year-round, usually ranging from 36–40°C depending on recent weather and water flow.
Because the hot pots are separated, visitors can often enjoy one pool to themselves, creating a relaxed and intimate atmosphere despite the hot spring’s convenient location.
Key things to know:
- Free to access at all times.
- Located near Hveragerði and Flúðir, ideal for Golden Circle itineraries.
- No changing facilities, so arrive prepared.
- Small pools — expect to share or wait briefly during busy hours.
- Best visited in morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Kúalaug is perfect for budget travellers who want a warm, natural soak without paying for a spa, and its easy access makes it a popular addition to any Golden Circle road trip.
- How to get to Kúalaug in Iceland?
Location: Near Laugarvatn and Flúðir
Distance from Reykjavík: ~95 km
Drive Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes1. Start Toward the Golden Circle
- From Reykjavík, take Route 1 east, then turn onto Route 35 toward Selfoss.
- Continue on Route 35 toward the Geysir/Gullfoss area.
2. Turn Toward Kúalaug
- Near Laugarvatn, take the small gravel road connecting farms in the area.
- Kúalaug is not heavily signposted — use GPS to locate the turnoff.
3. Park Near the Stream
- You’ll find an informal parking area near the small stream and geothermal fields.
4. Walk to the Hot Pots
- The two natural pools are just 1–2 minutes from the parking spot.
- They sit beside the stream in a shallow geothermal valley.
7. Nauteyrarlaug – Remote Relaxation
Nauteyrarlaug is a peaceful, little-known hot spring tucked deep in the Westfjords, offering a completely remote soaking experience far from the main tourist routes. The warm pool sits beside old stone ruins and overlooks a wide, quiet fjord, creating a calm atmosphere that feels untouched and authentically Icelandic.
Because of the distance from major towns and the limited traffic in this part of the Westfjords, Nauteyrarlaug is usually empty, giving travellers a private and serene geothermal stop. The water temperature is gently warm, generally around 37–40°C, making it comfortable even on windy days.
Key things to know:
- Free to visit and accessible to respectful travellers.
- Located in one of the quietest regions of the Westfjords.
- No facilities — no changing rooms, no services.
- Access is best in summer, when gravel roads are open and conditions are stable.
- Ideal for travellers seeking solitude, scenery and a true off-the-grid experience.
Nauteyrarlaug is perfect for thrifty travellers who want a meaningful geothermal stop away from crowds — a quiet, scenic hot spring framed by fjords, history and total peace.
- How to get to Nauteyrarlaug in the Westfjords of Iceland?
Location: Between Ísafjörður and Hólmavík
Distance from Reykjavík: ~320 km
Drive Time: 4.5–6 hours depending on road conditions1. Start Your Drive Toward the Westfjords
- Take Route 1 north, then turn onto Route 60 toward Hólmavík.
2. Continue on Route 61
- Drive along fjords and mountain terrain until you reach the Nauteyri area.
3. Look for the Hot Spring Sign
- A small sign on the right-hand side points to “Nauteyrarlaug.”
- Turn onto the gravel road that leads toward old stone ruins.
4. Park Beside the Ruins
- A small gravel clearing serves as the parking area.
5. Walk to Nauteyrarlaug
- The hot spring is just a minute’s walk from the ruins, overlooking the fjord.
Driving to Iceland’s Free Hot Springs with Thrifty
Most of these locations are accessible by normal cars in summer, though a 4×4 is recommended if you plan to explore the Westfjords, gravel roads, or remote areas. With Thrifty Iceland, you can choose from affordable compact cars, budget 4×4 options like the Dacia Duster, or roomier SUVs for longer road trips.
Thrifty Traveller Tips
- Always check road conditions on road.is
- Respect nature — stay on marked paths
- Bring towels, water, and warm clothing (weather changes fast)
- Travel early or late to avoid crowds at popular springs
- Follow local signs and property rules — many of these springs are on private land
Iceland is famous for its geothermal spas, but you don’t have to pay premium prices to enjoy warm, healing waters. With a Thrifty rental car and a sense of adventure, you can experience the best free hot springs in Iceland, discover remote landscapes, and soak beneath Iceland’s open skies — all without stretching your travel budget.