Overview
Small tubs with a glacier view, built for quiet soaking
Hoffell Hot Tubs (often listed as Hoffell Baths) are a set of four geothermal tubs near Hoffellsjökull glacier, a short drive from Höfn. The operator runs it as a managed site: you check in, use simple changing facilities, shower, then soak in one of the tubs while the glacier and mountains sit right in front of you. It’s not a lagoon, it’s a compact, practical setup that feels personal when it’s not busy.
What makes it different
The scale is the charm. Four tubs, one site, one view. If you like a calm soak that still has real infrastructure, showers, changing hooks, and an on-site sauna option, Hoffell hits a sweet spot between “wild spring” and “big spa complex.”
Planning note
The operator publishes seasonal opening hours and notes a last booking time, so it’s worth building your day around a confirmed slot rather than assuming you can drop in anytime.
Location & Access
Where it is
Hoffell Baths is near Hoffelli II b, 781 Hornafjörður, reached by turning off the Ring Road (Route 1) onto Road 984 toward Hoffell.
Getting there
This is drive-up access with no hike. The operator describes Hoffell as about 19 km from Höfn and about 3 km from Route 1. Roads are typically straightforward, but winter conditions in southeast Iceland can bring wind, ice, and sudden visibility changes. If weather is active, give yourself extra time and avoid arriving late.
Facilities
The operator lists four hot tubs, changing rooms with hooks, a shower area, and a sauna. This is a small site, so having sandals and an extra towel makes transitions cleaner and more comfortable.
What to bring
Swimsuit, two towels (one to dry, one to sit on), and traction sandals. Add a warm hat and dry layer for after soaking, especially in shoulder seasons. If you’re arriving from hiking, bring a dry bag for wet gear so you’re not dealing with damp clothing in the changing area.
Before you go
Check the operator’s published opening hours for your month and plan around the stated last booking time (19:00). If you’re on a tight schedule, booking ahead keeps the visit smooth.
Suitability & Accessibility
Hoffell is best for travelers who want a quiet, scenery-forward soak near Höfn without committing to a large lagoon or a long detour. It suits couples and solo travelers especially well, and it can work for families who keep the visit calm and supervised.
Families
Family friendly in the practical sense, because it’s drive-up and the site is small. The tubs can be hot, and the setting can be windy, so kids usually do best with short soak rounds and warm breaks. Keep supervision tight at steps and tub edges, smaller tubs have pinch points where bumping and slipping happen.
Mobility realities
No hiking, but there are wet surfaces, steps typical of tub entry, and outdoor exposure. A slower pace and non-slip sandals matter. If you need support getting in and out, plan to use the easiest tub entry and avoid rushing when it’s busy.
Wheelchair expectations
I’m not claiming wheelchair access. I do not have verified step-free routes and water-entry aids for the tubs. If wheelchair logistics are essential, contact the operator directly and ask about routes, thresholds, and the simplest tub entry.
Expectations vs reality
It’s simple and scenic, not luxurious. If you want a big indoor lounge, pick a larger spa. If you want tubs and a glacier view, this is the point.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat pacing
Tubs can feel “fine” until you stand up and realize you’ve overheated. Do shorter rounds with breaks, drink water, and cool down gently between sessions. If you feel dizzy or unusually tired, end the soak and rest.
Slips are the most common issue
Wet decking and tub steps are where people get hurt. Wear traction sandals, move slowly, and keep one hand free when you walk. If you’re carrying towels and phones, carry less and make two trips.
Cold air changes the risk
In windy or cold weather, wet hair and a wet swimsuit can chill you quickly between tub and changing area. Dry off well, put on a warm layer, and avoid standing around wet while deciding what to do next.
Shower and cleanliness
Use the showers before soaking. It keeps shared tubs nicer, and it also removes sunscreen and grit that can irritate eyes and skin.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps things moving. Don’t block the steps, don’t sprawl across narrow edges, and keep voices lower if others are soaking quietly. Small sites feel crowded fast when people spread out.
Photos, kindly
Views are tempting. Keep shots wide and avoid framing other guests up close. If the tubs are busy, it’s nicer to skip photos and just soak.
Kind cautions
If you’re pregnant, heat-sensitive, or managing cardiovascular concerns, keep sessions conservative and skip hard hot-to-cold swings. A moderate soak usually feels best.
FAQs
Where are Hoffell Hot Tubs?
They’re near Höfn in southeast Iceland, reached by turning off Route 1 onto Road 984 toward Hoffell, with the operator listing the address as Hoffelli II b, 781 Hornafjörður.
Do you need to hike to reach the tubs?
No. It’s a drive-up site with short on-site walking.
What facilities are on-site?
The operator lists four geothermal tubs, a sauna, and changing facilities with showers.
What are the opening hours?
The operator publishes seasonal hours and notes a last booking time of 19:00. Check the official site for the schedule in your travel month.
What should I pack?
Swimsuit, two towels, and traction sandals. Add a warm hat and dry layer for after soaking, especially in wind or colder months.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
I’m not claiming it. If step-free access and assisted water entry are essential, contact the operator for current details before you plan the visit.