Our Hotels
Keahotels is one of the largest hotel chains in Iceland operating ten hotels. Together the hotels provide over 800 rooms and service travelers, local and foreign, all year round.
Reykjavík — Capital
Vík — South Iceland
Akureyri — North Iceland
Siglufjörður — North Iceland
Grímsnes — South Iceland
What is Seljavallalaug?
Seljavallalaug (say that three times fast) is Iceland’s oldest man-made swimming pool, built in 1923. Tucked away in a lush valley beneath the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano (yes, that one that threw a tantrum in 2010 and grounded half of Europe’s flights), this pool is a stunning blend of history and nature. It’s partially fed by geothermal water, which means you get a mix of warm and cool spots—like an Icelandic roulette game for your toes.
How to get to Seljavallalaug?
First, you’ll need a car, some decent walking shoes, and a willingness to embrace adventure. Seljavallalaug is about a two-hour drive from Reykjavík, with a turn-off near the small town of Skógar. From the nearest parking area, it’s a short but stunning 15-minute hike through a valley that looks like something straight out of Game of Thrones (minus the dragons—probably).
Pro tip: This is not the place for your pristine white sneakers or high heels. The trail can be muddy, rocky, and a little slippery, so dress accordingly. And while we’re at it, bring a towel, a plastic bag for your wet swimsuit, and some snacks—because nothing says “I conquered a hidden hot spring” like munching on an Icelandic chocolate bar afterward.
What to expect?
The pool sits quietly against the mountains, its algae-lined edges giving it an undeniably “natural spa” aesthetic. There are no lifeguards, no ticket booths, and no fancy changing facilities—just a small, rustic changing room that has probably seen better days.
The water isn’t as hot as some of Iceland’s other geothermal pools, hovering around 20-30°C (68-86°F), which means it’s more of a refreshing soak than a steamy hot tub. But honestly, with the surrounding scenery, who cares? You’ll be too busy marveling at the dramatic cliffs, the occasional sheep wandering by, and the sheer magic of floating in a piece of history.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
- Respect nature: This is an unofficial pool, so there’s no staff cleaning up after visitors. Take your trash with you, and maybe even pick up any litter left behind by less considerate travelers.
- Don’t expect luxury: This is as raw as it gets—no showers, no heating, and changing rooms that are more “rustic charm” than “spa retreat.”
- Go early or late: Seljavallalaug has grown in popularity, and while it’s still relatively quiet compared to other Icelandic hotspots, visiting in the early morning or late evening can give you a more tranquil experience.
