Overview
A highland soak with a roof over your head and real opening hours
Laugarfell is a small highland accommodation and hot-springs stop in East Iceland, north of Mt. Snæfell. Unlike many informal hot pots, the hot springs here have published day-visitor hours, posted pool temperatures, and an entry price. That structure makes a big difference when you’re planning a remote driving day.
Two pools, two moods
The operator lists the large hot spring at 37–39°C and the small hot spring at 42–44°C. In practice, that gives you a comfortable longer-soak option and a hotter, shorter-round option. If you’re heat sensitive, start in the cooler pool and work up carefully.
What makes it distinct
This is highlands access without a “secret spot” vibe. You’re still in a remote landscape, but you’re doing it with a proper base, marked directions, and a clear plan for when you can soak.
Location & Access
Where it is
Laugarfell is reached via Road 910 in the East Iceland highlands. A regional tourism listing places it on road number 910 and provides precise coordinates, included below.
Season and access window
The operator states Laugarfell welcomes guests each year from June 1 to September 30. They also describe access as a 74 km drive from Egilsstaðir on paved roads except the last 2 km, with good summer access by all cars, and no 4x4 required.
Driving directions
The operator gives a specific route from Egilsstaðir via Road 931 toward Hengifoss, then 933, then turning onto 910 and continuing for about 40 minutes. Treat this as a real highland drive: fuel up, start early, and keep slack in the day.
Hot springs opening hours
On their hot-springs page, day visitors are listed as 10:30–21:00, and overnight guests 09:00–23:00.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, and traction sandals. Add a warm layer for after soaking, and bring food and water as if you might not find what you need later. Highlands plans go best when you’re self-sufficient.
Suitability & Accessibility
This is best for travelers who want a highlands hot spring experience without guessing about access, because the operator publishes season dates, opening hours, and an entry price.
Families
Family friendly for families who are comfortable with longer drives on remote roads. Kids still need conservative soak times, especially in the hotter small pool, and close supervision on wet stone edges.
Couples and solo travelers
Couples tend to like Laugarfell as a quiet night or a deliberate day stop, especially when the light runs late in summer. Solo travelers should plan to arrive with daylight and avoid building a route that forces late-evening driving if weather turns.
Mobility realities
No technical hike is required to reach the pools once you’re on the property, but this is a rural site with uneven ground, wet stone edges, and weather exposure. The limiting factor for many people is the drive, not the walk.
Wheelchair expectations
I’m not marking this as wheelchair accessible. The setting is a highland lodge with stone-built pools and outdoor transitions. If step-free access and assisted water entry are essential, a modern lagoon or city pool is a safer choice.
Expectations vs reality
This is not a spa campus. It’s a simple pair of hot pools in a big landscape. If you come for quiet and warm water after a drive, it delivers.
Safety & Etiquette
Remote-road safety is the big one
Road 910 is a highlands route. Even when it’s driveable, it can feel isolated. Fuel up before you turn off the Ring Road area, keep a buffer in your schedule, and avoid pushing the drive late if you’re tired.
Heat pacing between two temperatures
The small pool is listed at 42–44°C, which is hot. Treat it as a short round, then take a break, then decide if you want another dip. The large pool’s 37–39°C range is usually better for longer soaking.
Slips and wet stone
Stone-built edges are charming and they get slick. Traction sandals help. Move slowly, keep one hand free, and don’t step onto wet stone while distracted by phones or photos.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps things moving. Avoid occupying the easiest entry spot for a long time, keep towels and bags tidy, and keep voices low, people come here for quiet.
Clean water habits
Shower if facilities are available, and keep lotions and heavy sunscreen out of the pools when you can. In small pools, water quality changes faster than you’d expect.
Weather respect
Highlands weather can flip quickly. Bring a warm layer, and if conditions feel sketchy for driving, leaving early is often the nicest decision you can make for yourself.
FAQs
When is Laugarfell open?
The operator states Laugarfell welcomes guests from June 1 to September 30 each year. Winter activities are mentioned as available for groups upon request, but the main public season is summer.
What are the hot springs opening hours?
The hot-springs page lists day visitors at 10:30–21:00 and overnight guests at 09:00–23:00.
How hot are the pools?
The operator lists the large hot spring at 37–39°C and the small hot spring at 42–44°C. Start cooler, then move hotter only if it feels good.
How much does it cost?
The operator lists day-visitor pricing as 2,700 ISK for adults and 1,700 ISK for kids (12 and under), with entry included for overnight guests. Check the official page for any updates before you travel.
Do you need a 4x4?
The operator states Laugarfell is accessible by road for all types of vehicles in summer and that no 4x4 is required. Conditions still vary, so drive conservatively and check road status if weather has been rough.