Icelandic swimming pools, or “sundlaugar” as they’re called locally, are more than just places to take a dip, they are an integral part of Icelandic culture, serving as hubs for both relaxation and building social connections.
In fact, Iceland’s swimming pool culture is so significant that it’s been nominated for UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list! In this article, we will explore the history, social significance, proper pool etiquette, and some of the must-visit pools scattered across the Icelandic landscape.
Understanding Iceland’s Swimming Pool Culture
Swimming pools in Iceland hold a special place in the hearts of locals. In the majority of the world, swimming is often experienced as an individual activity or sport. But in Iceland, swimming pools are seen as a collective experience that builds community spirit and well-being. They are community gathering places where people of all ages will come together to relax, socialize, catch up on local news, or simply unwind after a long day.
In an Icelandic swimming pool, you might find yourself in a deep conversation with anyone from a friendly local to a town official. They truly are a melting pot for Icelandic society. The relaxed atmosphere of the pools, coupled with the therapeutic effects of geothermal water, creates an environment where people feel comfortable and open.
Additionally, swimming pools are a year-round attraction in Iceland. The geothermal heating ensures that the water remains warm even during the coldest months, making it a popular activity regardless of the season. This is especially important as the weather in Iceland is notorious for being cold and unpredictable, meaning outdoor picnics and backyard barbeques are tough to plan. The accessibility has helped swimming pools become a staple in Icelandic culture, providing a consistent and reliable place for social interaction and leisure.
A Small Dip into History
Swimming has been popular in Iceland for a long time, with historical references to bathing practices dating back to the Viking era. Geothermal springs were used for bathing and healing, and over time, these practices evolved into the modern swimming culture. These early pools were likely simple excavations near hot springs, offering a communal space for hygiene and relaxation. The 12th century saw the construction of Snorralaug, a geothermal pool named after the renowned Icelandic historian Snorri Sturluson.
The first dedicated swimming pools, separate from Iceland hot springs, began appearing in the 13th century. These early pools were often small and constructed from wood or stone. However, their popularity grew steadily, and by the 20th century, swimming pools became a staple feature in Icelandic towns and villages. In the early 20th century, swimming lessons became compulsory in schools, partly influenced by the country’s extensive coastline and the need for water safety. As a result, nearly every Icelander learned to swim from a young age.
Today, there are over 100 swimming pools across the country, each offering a unique experience.
The Role of Geothermal Energy
Iceland’s geothermal activity is one of the primary reasons for its swimming pool culture. The abundance of volcanoes in Iceland and its geothermal resources provide a natural way to heat swimming pools. This not only makes swimming an enjoyable activity year-round but also aligns with Iceland’s commitment to renewable energy.
The country’s volcanic activity generates significant amounts of geothermal heat, which is harnessed to power homes, businesses, and, of course, swimming pools. This sustainable energy source is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective, making it an ideal solution for heating the many pools scattered across the island.
The use of geothermal energy in swimming pools ensures that the water remains at a comfortable temperature throughout the year, allowing Icelanders to enjoy swimming even in the middle of winter in Iceland. Additionally, geothermal water is rich in minerals, which can have therapeutic effects on the body, promoting relaxation and well-being. By utilizing natural resources to heat swimming pools, the country minimizes its carbon footprint and sets an example for other nations to follow, aligning with Iceland’s goal of becoming a global leader in renewable energy and environmental conservation.
Rules of the Icelandic Pools: What You Need to Know
When visiting an Icelandic swimming pool, there are some important Iceland cultural norms to know. One of the most crucial rules is the practice of showering without swimwear before entering any Iceland swimming pool. This rule is strictly enforced to maintain high cleanliness standards and ensure a hygienic experience for everyone. Most pools provide detailed instructions on the proper showering procedure, which involves using soap and paying special attention to certain areas of the body to ensure that dirt, sweat, or sunscreen is thoroughly removed.
Another important rule is the use of swimwear. While showering must be done without swimwear, wearing a swimsuit in the pool is mandatory. Additionally, long hair should be tied back, and visitors with open wounds or skin conditions are advised not to enter the pool. After showering, proceed to the locker room to change and securely store your belongings before heading to the pool.
Beyond hygiene, remember to be respectful of others. Maintain a moderate noise level, avoid reserving lounge chairs for extended periods, and be mindful of personal space. Most pools have designated areas for children, so keep an eye out for little ones and adjust your swimming style accordingly. Also, note that there is usually an entry fee to access the facilities, which helps maintain the high standards of cleanliness and safety.
Another distinctive feature of Icelandic pools is the water temperature. Many pools are filled with hot water from geothermal sources, providing a soothing and relaxing experience. These pools often have varying temperatures, so be sure to check the water temperature before entering to find the most comfortable spot for you.
Finally, remember to leave your shoes outside the pool area. Most pools provide designated shoe racks or cubbies for footwear. Following these simple guidelines will ensure a pleasant and culturally sensitive experience for both you and the locals.
5 Top Swimming Pools to Visit in Iceland
Iceland has a huge number of swimming pools, from more popular options close to Iceland’s capital to remote, serene pools that are off the beaten path. Here are five of the top Iceland swimming pools, each providing a distinctive experience.
Laugardalslaug Reykjavik
Laugardalslaug is the largest swimming pool in Reykjavik and one of the most popular spots for both locals and tourists. Located closed to Reykjavik center, this complex offers a variety of facilities, including both outdoor and indoor pools, hot pots, cold tubs, a seawater pool, a steam bath, and water slides. The pool has a dedicated children’s area, along with a diving pool and a selection of running tracks and other athletic facilities.
The outdoor pool has multiple lanes for lap swimming, ideal for serious swimmers, while the hot tubs, set at different temperatures, provide a perfect place to unwind and soak. There is also a seawater pool, filled with naturally heated seawater, which is one of the facility’s highlights. Laugardalslaug’s central location in Reykjavik makes it easily accessible, allowing you to add it to any other Iceland itinerary, even if you’re just on an Iceland stopover.
Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
Located in a valley near the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, Seljavallalaug is one of Iceland’s oldest and most scenic swimming pools. Built in 1923, this 25-metre hidden gem is fed by a natural hot spring, which ensures that visitors get a warm swim even in cooler weather. That said, don’t expect it to be hot like a hot tub. Since it’s naturally heated, the temperature of the pool will be dependent on the weather conditions outside.
There are minimal facilities here, so make sure that you take everything you need with you, including a towel. On the plus side, Seljavallalaug is totally free to visit, however, there are no staff on-site to clean up after guests, and the pool itself is cleaned very infrequently. This truly is a place to connect with nature and enjoy the simplicity of this historic pool away from the crowds of the more popular options.
Seljavallalaug is relatively easy to access. It is located on Iceland’s South Coast, just off Route 1 and near Vik. The gravel road to the parking lot is about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles), so you will likely want a 4X4 vehicle. From there, it’s an easy 10-minute walk down to the pool.
Hofsós Swimming Pool
Hofsós Swimming Pool is located in the small village of Hofsós in northern Iceland. This pool is well-known for its beautiful setting, offering panoramic views of the Skagafjörður fjord and the surrounding mountains. The pool’s infinity style has been designed to blend right in with the fjord waters in the background, making it feel like you’re swimming into the ocean.
The pool is modern and well-maintained, featuring hot tubs and a spacious deck area. Unlike some of Iceland’s more crowded pools, Hofsós offers a more intimate and quiet experience. The village of Hofsós itself is steeped in history, with attractions such as the Hofsós Emigration Center, which provides insights into the history of Icelandic emigration to North America.
Getting there takes about 5 hours from Reykjavik, and you will have to venture off the Ring Road just past Varmahlíð before you reach Akureyri. That said, the entire route is paved, so a mid-size vehicle is still suitable during the milder months of the year.
Reykjafjörður Hot Spring
Located in the secluded Arnarfjordur fjord in Iceland’s Westfjords, not far from the town of Ísafjörður, Reykjafjörður hot spring is a natural geothermal wonder. It has both a natural and manmade geothermal pool set within untouched Icelandic wilderness, surrounded by mountains. The concrete pool was built in 1975 by volunteers and remains a bit cooler than the natural one.
The hot spring itself is a natural pool with geothermal water bubbling up from the ground. The water is rich in minerals and has a soothing and therapeutic effect. Keep in mind that the changing facilities are basic, and there are no restrooms, however, both pools are completely free to use.
It can be challenging to reach Reykjafjörður, and it involves driving on unpaved roads, so you will want to rent a high-clearance 4WD SUV. That said, it’s definitely worth the challenge once you see the location and views. The surrounding area is also perfect for exploring, with hiking trails and scenic vistas offering plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Vestmannaeyjar Swimming Pool
Vestmannaeyjar Swimming Pool is located on the volcanic island of Heimaey, the largest of Iceland’s Westman Islands off the southern coast. It’s a modern facility with excellent amenities. The pool complex includes several hot tubs, a lap pool, a leisure pool, and waterslides, making it a great destination for families. The highlight of the facility is the outdoor oceanfront pool, where visitors can take a refreshing dip surrounded by the island’s volcanic scenery.
Heimaey is the only inhabited island in the Westman Islands archipelago. The most common way to reach it is by ferry from Landeyjahöfn. The ferry takes about 35-40 minutes and provides beautiful views of the islands along the way. You can drive your car right onto the ferry, so you can continue your exploration once you reach the island. Also, make sure to keep an eye out for seabirds, including Iceland puffins, which often nest on the island.
Tips for Planning Your Pool Visits in Iceland
When planning your swimming pool visits in Iceland, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Best times to visit: Visiting in the early morning or late evening will help you avoid crowds. Many pools open early and stay open late, providing lots of time to enjoy a quiet swim.
- What to bring: Swimwear, a towel, and flip-flops. Some pools may provide these items for a fee, but it’s generally more convenient to bring your own.
- Respect local customs: Always shower thoroughly before entering the pool. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of each pool, as they may vary slightly. Respect the quiet and relaxing atmosphere, especially in hot tubs and steam rooms.
- Combine pool visits with attractions: Many pools are near other interesting sites, so plan to explore the local area as well.
- Renting a car: Renting a car with Hertz Iceland is highly recommended to easily access these pools and make the most of your trip.
Visit the Best Iceland Swimming Pools
In order to explore Iceland’s swimming pools, you will need a rental car. With pools scattered around the country and limited public transportation options, a rental car will give you the freedom to explore the swimming pools and other Iceland attractions at your own pace. With Hertz Iceland, you can conveniently and comfortably reach these destinations. Book your rental car online and in advance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable adventure.
