Quick FactsOverview
About Laugarfell Hot Springs
Laugarfell Hot Springs, Iceland are two stone-built geothermal pools at a small mountain hostel in the East Iceland highlands, north of Mount Snæfell, at the edge of Vatnajokull National Park. The larger pool runs at 37 to 39 degrees Celsius and is suited to extended soaking, while the smaller pool runs at 42 to 44 degrees Celsius for shorter, hotter sessions. Both pools are paved with natural stone and fed by a geothermal spring that local folklore credits with healing properties. The site is open to day visitors from June 1 to September 30, accessible by all vehicles during the summer season.
Laugarfell takes its name from the mountain it sits beneath, which translates as pool mountain. The hostel accommodates up to 28 guests and provides a shared lounge, dining room, and a simple restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. Reindeer are commonly seen in the surrounding area, and several nearby waterfalls are accessible on day hikes, including a five-waterfall circular route. Mount Snæfell, the highest freestanding peak in Iceland at around 1,833 metres, sits approximately 12 km to the southwest.
Location & Access
Getting to Laugarfell Hot Springs
Laugarfell Hot Springs is approximately 74 km from Egilsstadir in East Iceland, reached via Roads 931, 933, and 910. The route follows Road 931 from Egilsstadir toward Hengifoss, then Road 933, before turning onto Road 910 and continuing for around 40 minutes. The last 2 km before the hostel are unpaved but manageable in all standard vehicles in summer; no 4WD is required. The total drive from Egilsstadir takes around one and a half to two hours. Day visitors should arrive within the posted hours of 10:30 to 21:00 and confirm current access conditions before travelling.
From Reykjavik, the most direct route is via the Ring Road east to Egilsstadir, a total journey of around six to seven hours by road. Domestic flights connect Reykjavik to Egilsstadir Airport, significantly reducing travel time and making Laugarfell accessible as a day or overnight trip from Egilsstadir. Laugarfell combines well with Vatnajokull National Park, Hengifoss waterfall, and Mount Snæfell on a broader East Iceland itinerary. Overnight guests may use the hot springs outside standard day visitor hours, from 09:00 to 23:00. Fuel up in Egilsstadir before heading out, as there are no services on the road to Laugarfell.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Laugarfell Suits
Laugarfell Hot Springs suits travelers exploring East Iceland who want a well-run, uncrowded highland hot spring stop with clearly posted temperatures, reliable day-visitor hours, and the option to stay overnight. It works well as a deliberate day trip from Egilsstadir or as an overnight stop on an East Iceland highlands itinerary. The two-pool format suits mixed groups because those who prefer milder heat can use the larger pool while others try the smaller, hotter pool.
Laugarfell is among the better family hot springs near Egilsstadir with practical infrastructure and no 4WD requirement. The all-car access on Road 910 removes the barrier that applies to many highland destinations, making it genuinely accessible to most self-drive visitors. Families with children are welcome; children under 13 pay a lower day visitor rate. Note that the smaller pool at 42 to 44 degrees Celsius is too hot for extended soaking and unsuitable for young children.
Wheelchair access is not documented at Laugarfell. The site has outdoor stone-built pools and a highland lodge setting with uneven outdoor terrain. If step-free pool access or assisted water entry is required, a modern lagoon or town pool is a more practical choice. Visitors with specific mobility needs should contact the property directly before travelling.
Safety & Etiquette
Laugarfell Hot Springs Safety Tips
Laugarfell Hot Springs is generally safe as a managed facility with posted pool temperatures and day-visitor hours, but the main safety considerations are the heat of the smaller pool, the remote highland location, and the outdoor terrain around the pools. No lifeguard is on site. The hostel staff are the primary point of contact for any on-site assistance during opening hours.
The larger pool at 37 to 39 degrees Celsius is comfortable for extended soaking. The smaller pool at 42 to 44 degrees Celsius is near the upper limit of what most people can tolerate comfortably. Enter it slowly, limit sessions to around 10 to 15 minutes, and cool down in the larger pool or take a break before re-entering. Children should not use the smaller pool without close adult supervision; the temperature is high enough to cause rapid overheating in young children. Drink water between sessions and exit if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.
Pool edges and surrounding stone surfaces can be slippery when wet; traction sandals are recommended. East Iceland highland weather can shift quickly; always bring warm layers for after the soak. The road to Laugarfell is straightforward by highland standards, but the overall drive of around two hours from Egilsstadir on remote roads means you should fuel up fully before departure and carry basic emergency supplies including food, water, warm clothing, and a first aid kit. The nearest significant medical services are in Egilsstadir, so plan accordingly.
