Overview
Two stone pools in big North Iceland scenery
Grettislaug is a pair of geothermal soaking pools at Reykir on the Reykjaströnd peninsula in Skagafjörður, with wide views toward the sea and Drangey. It’s a small, managed setup tied to a guesthouse and campsite, so you get a more cared-for experience than a random roadside pool, but it still feels simple and outdoorsy rather than spa-polished.
What’s on-site
Regional listings describe two pools (Grettislaug and Jarlslaug) plus practical facilities like showers, camping, and a small café. The pools are commonly described as warm enough for comfortable soaking, often around 39°C (102°F), though conditions can vary with weather and water flow.
Seasonality is real here
Visit North Iceland lists an opening period, which is worth paying attention to if you are planning a shoulder-season road trip in the north.
Location & Access
Where it is
Grettislaug is at Reykir, Reykjaströnd, near Sauðárkrókur in North Iceland. Visit North Iceland lists the address as Reykir, Reykjaströnd, 551 Sauðárkrókur, and provides coordinates for navigation.
Getting there
This is drive-up access with short on-site walking, no hike. You reach the area via Road 748 out on the peninsula, which can feel remote even though it is not a Highlands route. Give yourself extra time in wind, rain, or low light, and plan fuel before you head out of town.
Opening period and hours
Visit North Iceland lists an opening period of 01/04 to 13/10. Local tourism listings also describe daily opening from 08:00 to 22:00 during the season (April to October, weather permitting). If your day is tight, check the latest update before you drive out.
Facilities
Regional listings describe showers on site and a small café, plus camping. Bring sandals with grip for wet ground and a second towel if you want one for drying and one for sitting.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, traction sandals, and a warm layer for after soaking. If you are camping or staying late, a headlamp helps in darker weeks, and a dry bag keeps wet gear from becoming a mess in the car.
Suitability & Accessibility
Grettislaug is best for travelers who want a straightforward soak in a quiet North Iceland setting, with enough infrastructure to keep things comfortable. It suits couples and solo travelers especially well, and it works for small groups who are happy with a simple, outdoors-first experience.
Families
Family friendly if your family is comfortable with hot water rules and wet surfaces. Smaller pools can feel crowded quickly, so kids usually do best with short soak rounds and warm breaks. Keep close supervision at pool edges and steps.
Mobility realities
No hiking, but expect outdoor surfaces, wet transitions, and typical pool entry steps. If balance is a concern, sandals with grip and a slower pace make the visit smoother. If you need very predictable accessibility features, confirm details with the operator before you commit to the drive.
Wheelchair expectations
I’m not claiming wheelchair access. I do not have verified step-free routes, accessible changing facilities, or assisted water-entry information in the regional listings I used.
Expectations vs reality
Think “quiet, scenic soak with basic facilities,” not “full spa day.” If you want lounging rooms and multiple saunas, pick a larger bath. If you want two warm pools and big views, this fits.
Safety & Etiquette
Remote road awareness
The main risk is the drive out on the peninsula in rough weather, not the pool itself. Keep fuel topped up, carry a basic emergency kit, and give yourself daylight when possible. If the weather is turning, it is often nicer to soak another day than to force the return drive.
Heat pacing
Warm water plus cool coastal air can trick you into staying too long. Do shorter rounds, drink water, and stand up slowly after sitting. If you feel dizzy or unusually tired, end the soak and warm up.
Slips and cold wind
Wet ground and steps are where minor injuries happen. Wear sandals with grip and move slowly. Wind can chill you fast between pool and changing area, so keep a towel and warm layer within reach.
Shower and cleanliness
Use showers before soaking if they are available. It keeps shared water nicer and makes the experience better for everyone.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps things moving. Don’t block entry steps, keep bags off narrow walking lines, and keep voices lower if others are soaking quietly.
Keep the site easy for the next group
Pack out small trash, keep glass away from wet areas, and leave changing spaces tidy. Small facilities stay pleasant when visitors keep things simple.
Kind cautions
If you’re pregnant, heat-sensitive, or managing cardiovascular concerns, keep sessions conservative and skip hard hot-to-cold contrasts. A gentler soak is usually the most enjoyable here.
FAQs
What is the opening season?
Visit North Iceland lists an opening period of April 1 to October 13.
What are the opening hours?
Regional tourism listings describe the pools as open daily from 08:00 to 22:00 during the season (April to October, weather permitting). Check the latest update before you drive out.
Do you need to hike to reach Grettislaug?
No. It is a drive-up destination with short on-site walking.
Are there facilities?
Regional listings describe showers on site, plus a small café, guesthouse, and camping.
How hot is the water?
Some travel guides describe the water as around 39°C (102°F), but conditions can vary. Always test before settling in and choose the spot that feels comfortable.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
I’m not claiming it. I do not have verified step-free routes or assisted water-entry information in the regional listings used here.