An outdoor soak is an essential part of the Icelandic experience – a surreal way to spend a dark winter's day or to unkink those muscles after a long day's hiking. In fact, the Icelandic tradition of bathing outdoors in volcanically heated pools dates right back to Viking times. From the Blue Lagoon to those in its stark interior, here are 14 of the best natural hot springs in Iceland.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Iceland, your essential guide for visiting Iceland.

1. Nauthólsvík geothermal beach, Reykjavík

Don't be fooled by their avid enthusiasm, though – the air temperature here rarely rises above 15ºC, though this is considered warm enough to strip off a shirt in Iceland. But two hot tubs steaming away at 38ºC, and a long, shallow pool full of geothermally heated seawater right on the sand, make Nauthólsvík pretty enjoyable whatever the season.

Make sure to spare some time to explore the capital on a walking tour.

Where to stay in Reykjavík

• For couples: House of the Snowbird
• For families: Kvosin Downtown Hotel
• For chilled vibes: Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Reykjavík.

2. Landmannalaugar

Edge into the cold water, walk upstream to where the two flows mix, find a spot where the temperature is perfect and settle back to admire the dramatic scenery.

You can visit Landmannalaugar as a day trip from Reykjavik or spend a night in the area.

3. Laugardalslaug, Reykjavík

This, the country's largest and best-equipped swimming complex, makes a great place to join in, with indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, saunas and water slides for children.

Planning a summer trip? You won't want to miss our guide to the best places to visit in Iceland in the summer.

4. Snorralaug, Reykholt

Snorri's scheming eventually led to his assassination; he was cut down in an underground tunnel here at Reykholt, northwest of Reykjavík, where you can still bathe in the hot pool he once used, temperatures allowing.

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5. Grettislaug

The pool is splendidly set on a remote stretch of Iceland's north coast, where you can ponder Grettir's achievements without, fortunately, having to replicate his swim.

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6. Leirubakki, Hekla

Leirubakki's circular, sunken pool is small – fitting about four people at once – and lined with cut lava blocks; views of Hekla rising up in the background more than compensate for the tepid water.

7. Jarðböðinn Nature Baths, Mývatn

An added bonus is the tectonically unstable surroundings – boiling mud pits, volcanic cones, steaming lava from a 1988 eruption and even an underground bakery, heated by natural jets of steam.

8. Grjótagjá, Mývatn

But, lit only through the narrow entrance, claustrophobic and full of steam as it is, Grjótagjá is definitely worth a look – and, if you're around during the depths of winter, the water might just be cool enough for a brief soak.

9. Viti, Askja

Right on the lakeshore is Viti, a much smaller but even scarier crater created in a single colossal explosion in 1875 which blew debris as far away as Denmark. The pale blue water at the bottom is fine for a quick swim, but keep an eye on the smoking, sulphurous vents around the shore - if you're into hot springs in Iceland with a hint of a challenge.

10. Blue Lagoon, Reykjanes

Its vividly coloured water, the outflow from a nearby geothermal power station, pools amongst a desolate mass of rough, black lava rubble. The lagoon's fine white silt is considered a cure for all manner of skin conditions.

There are grottoes, steam rooms and an on-site restaurant, so it's easy to spend a whole half a day soaking in this otherworldly location. You can buy your entrance fee upfront online, including a towel and a drink to spend your time in style.

11. Sky Lagoon, Kópavogur

The whole setting, carved into craggy rocks, is spectacular, although the approach sees you pass through a rather uninspiring industrial estate. Many tourists will still choose to visit the Blue Lagoon, but this is better value and just as memorable. Visiting during the gorgeous low light of sunrise or sunset is unforgettable.

12. Secret Lagoon, Flúðir

The Gamla Laugin (Old Hot Pool) at Hverahólmi, is just north of town. Here thermal springs in a grassy field have been diverted into a no-frills, open-air pool the size of a village duck pond; it’s a secret no longer and is incorporated into several tours.

Constructed in 1891 but later abandoned, recent renovations have converted the old hothouses to changing rooms, retaining a crumbling building which adds an atmospheric air, particularly when wreathed in steam.

13. Hvammsvik Hot Springs - the newest addition to hot springs in Iceland

The hot springs are located in a picturesque area and surrounded by mountains. It's the perfect place for a short escape from the bustle of the city, or for a longer stay, during which you can rejuvenate in the springs admiring the stunning views.

Enhance your journey with our tailor-made trip to All of Iceland. Experience the awe-inspiring Dettifoss waterfall on the diamond circle route and venture into the remote and captivating Strandir region, one of Iceland's hidden gems. This itinerary is perfect for those seeking to explore Iceland at a relaxed and leisurely pace.

14. Reykjadalur Steam Valley

For an easy four-hour circuit, follow Breiðamörk north out of town for about forty minutes to a bridged stream at the base of the fells, from where a pegged trail heads uphill. Crossing the muddy top, you descend green boggy slopes into Reykjadalur (Steam Valley), named after the hot stream that runs through the middle.

Ready for a trip to Iceland? For inspiration, use the Iceland itineraries from the Rough Guide to Iceland and our local travel experts.

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Header image: Myvatn Nature baths © Ververidis Vasilis/Shutterstock.