Overview
A tiny hot pool hidden just off the highway
Hellulaug is a small geothermal pool on the Westfjords coast in Vatnsfjörður, close enough to the main road that you can visit without a major detour. It sits near the beach with a fjord view, but it’s tucked low enough that you often won’t notice it until you’re on the short path down. The pool itself is small and shallow, which makes it feel more like a warm dip than a long “soak for hours” session.
What makes it worth stopping for
It’s the combination of low effort and strong setting. If you’re already driving Route 60, you can add a quick warm break without changing your day’s plan much. When the weather is calm, it’s a surprisingly peaceful spot for something so close to the road.
Keep expectations simple
This is not a facility. There’s no ticket booth and no spa infrastructure. Bring what you need and leave it tidy so the next person gets the same quiet experience.
Location & Access
Where it is
Hellulaug is in Vatnsfjörður in the Westfjords, just off Road 60 and close to the beach. Regional listings note the pool cannot be seen from the road, but there is a parking lot next to the path down.
Getting there
This is drive-up access with a short walk. Park, then walk roughly 100 meters on the path to the pool. The Westfjords can be windy and wet, so even a short path can feel slick. In winter or shoulder seasons, check road conditions before you commit to Route 60 stretches, wind and ice can change the drive quickly.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, and sandals with grip. Pack a warm hat and a dry layer for after soaking, fjord wind can chill you fast when you step out. Bring a dry bag for clothes, because there are no changing rooms and you’ll want to keep dry gear dry.
Donations
Visitor information notes there’s no entry fee and donations are encouraged via a cash box near the parking area. If you use the pool, a small contribution helps support basic upkeep.
Before you go
Plan for a short stop. The pool is small, and it’s nicer when you keep the visit light and share space.
Suitability & Accessibility
Hellulaug is best for travelers who like wild-feeling stops that are still easy to reach by car. It suits road-trippers on Route 60 who want a quick warm break between longer Westfjords drives.
Families
Family friendly for families comfortable with informal, unfenced soaking. The pool is listed as about 60 cm deep, but supervision still matters because the edges can be slippery and the shoreline environment adds distractions. Kids generally do better with short soak rounds and fast, warm changing.
Mobility realities
No hike, but the path down and the pool edge can be uneven and wet. If balance is a concern, keep sandals on outside the water and step carefully on entry. The site is exposed, so wind can make transitions feel harder than they should.
Wheelchair expectations
I’m not claiming wheelchair access. I do not have verified step-free route details or assisted water entry for this pool, and the short path and natural edges are likely limiting.
Expectations vs reality
Come for a brief, scenic dip, not for amenities. If you want showers, private changing, or a long indoor warm-up, choose a town pool instead.
Safety & Etiquette
Mind the depth and the edge
Regional visitor info lists the pool as about 60 cm deep. That shallow depth can be deceptive: you still need careful footing on entry, and it’s easy to slip on wet stone and sand. Move slowly and keep one hand free for balance.
Heat pacing
Hellulaug is often described around 38°C (about 100°F). Even moderate heat adds up, especially if you’re cold from driving. Do short rounds, drink water, and stand up slowly when you exit.
No facilities means you plan your own comfort
There are no changing rooms, ticket booths, or cafes reported in visitor information. Have your towel ready, keep dry clothes sealed in a bag, and change quickly so you’re not standing around wet in the wind.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares the limited space and keeps things moving. If another group arrives, make room, avoid sprawling bags on the narrow edges, and keep voices low. This spot feels special because it stays quiet.
Keep glass away
Broken glass in a small natural pool is a lasting problem. Use non-glass containers and pack out every scrap of trash, including small items like bottle caps and snack wrappers.
Coastal weather awareness
Wind can spike suddenly in the fjord. If conditions turn, it’s kinder to yourself to end the soak, get dry, and move on rather than forcing a longer session.
Kind cautions
If you’re pregnant, heat-sensitive, or managing cardiovascular concerns, keep sessions conservative and avoid dramatic hot-to-cold swings. A short dip can be plenty here.
FAQs
Where is Hellulaug?
Hellulaug is in Vatnsfjörður in the Westfjords, just off Road 60 near the beach. Regional listings note it’s not visible from the road, but there’s a parking lot next to the path down.
How far is the walk from parking?
Visitor information describes a short walk, roughly 100 meters, from the parking pull-off to the pool.
How deep and how warm is it?
Regional visitor info lists the pool as about 60 cm deep and around 38°C (about 100°F). Always test the water and choose your spot carefully.
Are there changing rooms or showers?
No. Visitor information describes the site as undeveloped, with no changing rooms or services. Bring a towel and plan a quick, wind-smart change.
Do you need to pay?
There is no entry fee noted in visitor information, but donations are encouraged via a cash box near the parking area.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
I’m not claiming it. I do not have verified step-free route or assisted-entry details, and the path and natural edges are likely limiting.