What to see and do at the Secret Lagoon. Iceland
The Secret Lagoon in Iceland is Surrounded by Small Geysers, Steam Vents and Boiling Pools of Water
The Secret Lagoon (Icelandic: Gamla Laugin) is one of Iceland's oldest geothermal pools, located in the small village of Flúðir in the Golden Circle region. Known for its rustic and natural feel, it offers visitors a more authentic and tranquil hot spring experience compared to the larger and more tourist-heavy Blue Lagoon. The Secret Lagoon is fed by natural hot springs and has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to relax in Iceland’s geothermal waters.
The Secret Lagoon is located near Flúðir, about 62 miles east of Reykjavík and a short detour from the main Golden Circle route which includes Geiser, Gullfoss Waterfalls, Thingvellir National Park and Kerid Crater. Like many of Iceland’s hot springs, the Secret Lagoon is situated in a volcanically active region. The geothermal heat comes from deep underground, where volcanic activity heats water, which rises to the surface.
We visited the Secret Lagoon on 8/31/2024 as part of our Golden Circle tour. While there, we relaxed in the lagoon and walked the trail around the edge which passed several small geysers, steam vents and boiling pools of water. Also enjoyed drinking s Secret Lagoon craft beer while swimming in the lagoon.
The Secret Lagoon was built in 1891, making it one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland. For decades, it served the local community as a gathering and bathing spot. After being largely forgotten and overshadowed by more modern facilities, the pool was restored and opened to the public as an alternative to the increasingly popular Blue Lagoon. Despite the restoration, the pool retains much of its original charm and authenticity.
The Secret Lagoon is fed by natural hot springs from geothermal activity in the area. The water is kept at a consistent temperature of around 100° F, making it ideal for year-round bathing. Within the area surrounding the lagoon, there is a small geyser, known as Litli Geysir, which erupts every few minutes, adding to the geothermal ambiance. Visitors can also see boiling hot springs and steam vents around the pool.
Unlike the Blue Lagoon, which is more commercialized and features modern spa facilities, the Secret Lagoon offers a more rustic and natural experience. The pool is surrounded by rocky lava fields, moss, and steam vents, creating a peaceful, untouched environment.
In summary, the Secret Lagoon is a beautiful, historical hot spring offering a serene and natural geothermal bathing experience. It’s ideal for visitors who want a quieter, less commercialized alternative to the Blue Lagoon, while still enjoying the stunning geothermal landscape of Iceland. Its location in the Golden Circle makes it a perfect stop for relaxation amidst sightseeing.
Viator offers numerous tours in the Golden Circle area. Click here for details. vi.me/JXnzg
Entrance to the Secret Lagoon.
The Secret Lagoon swimming area.
The Litli Geysir next to the swimming area.
The Litli Geysir next to the swimming area erupts every few minutes.
The Secret Lagoon's original 1891 bathhouse building still remains.
Hot spring and steam vents near the swimming area.
One of the boiling hot springs next to the river.
Hot springs emptying into the river.
Secret Lagoon craft beer is available at the lagoon. Note that the can label matches the background.