Around the island, beautiful natural hot pools can be found in wilderness areas such as Landmannalaugar and Hveravellir, attracting locals and visitors alike, who come for a relaxing bathe in their warm, mineral-rich waters. Every town, and many small villages have their own swimming pool, sauna and hot tub. It is this access to enormous quantities of geothermally-heated water combined with clean air, minimal pollution, and an abundance of high quality fresh food that contribute to Icelanders being amongst the healthiest people in the world.
Reykjavik is recognised as one of only three European spa cities and has seven public thermal pools and baths – the majority of which are outdoors and open year round, many until late in the evening. People suffering from stress-related problems find the natural healing properties of the water particularly beneficial as it dramatically increases their feelings of well being. The pools have also been shown to relieve skin problems, asthma, arthritis as well as lung and heart conditions.
For as little as £1.50 visitors can bathe in the hot pools and take a sauna at one of Reykjavik’s spas, which are all easily accessible on the city bus network. Most also offer a range of unusual massage treatments and Iceland’s massage therapists are extremely well trained and internationally renowned.
If you really want to treat yourself, then a visit to one of the private spas is an incredible experience. There are two Mecca spas – at Hotel Saga in Reykjavik, and in the neighbouring town of Kopavogur – while Hotel Nordica hosts the fabulous Planet Pulse Spa. At each establishment you will find a fitness centre, jacuzzis and a range of massage treatments including some using oils developed from local mountain herbs. Prices are around £40-£50 for a treatment.
The Blue Lagoon is probably Iceland’s most famous bathing experience. Formed from the run-off seawaters of a geothermal power plant, the lagoon is surrounded by jet-black basalt lava to form a natural spa. Blue-green algae and white silica mud form a light natural sediment lining the bottom and give the water its soft, milky-blue colour. As well as swimming in the mineral-rich waters, you can visit the cave sauna, or enjoy a head, neck and shoulder massage whilst lying in the soothing waters. For a more intensive experience, book a full holistic treatment with two therapists. The Blue Lagoon can easily be visited on a day trip from Reykjavik, either on an organised excursion, or using the scheduled bus service and you can even stay overnight at the Blue Lagoon hotel.
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Iceland
