Overview
East Iceland’s lake soak, built on a calm shoreline
Vök Baths sits on Lake Urriðavatn just outside Egilsstaðir, with geothermal pools that extend onto the water. The big difference here is the setting: you’re soaking with a lake horizon, not a lava field or ocean surf. On a still day it feels quiet and spacious, and even when it’s busy the layout helps keep the mood relaxed.
What’s included and what it costs
The operator lists admission pricing by category (adults, youth, students, seniors, disabled) and notes what’s included with entry. Rentals (like towels and swimwear) are priced separately, so you can decide what to carry on a Ring Road trip and what to rent on site.
Why it’s worth a detour
If you’re doing the Eastfjords or crossing the Ring Road through Egilsstaðir, Vök is a practical reset stop. It’s also one of the few Iceland bath experiences where the surrounding water is part of the scene.
Location & Access
Where it is
Vök Baths is on Lake Urriðavatn, a few minutes northwest of Egilsstaðir, with the address listed as Route 925 (Hróarstunguvegur), 701 Egilsstaðir. They also publish GPS coordinates, included below for navigation.
By car
This is a drive-up facility with no hike. It’s a straightforward detour off the Ring Road area around Egilsstaðir. In winter, East Iceland roads can be icy and visibility can change quickly, so build slack into your schedule and don’t plan to arrive rushed.
Opening hours
They publish seasonal hours: summer (June 15 to September 15) is 10:00 to 23:00 daily, and the rest of the year is 12:00 to 22:00 daily, with a note that guests stay in pools until shortly before closing.
What to bring
Swimsuit and a dry change of clothes. Even in summer, lake-edge air can feel cool when you step out. Traction sandals are a good idea for wet decks, and a warm hat helps if you like longer soak rounds.
Tickets and timing
Pricing is published and booking is available. If you want a quieter feel, earlier arrivals tend to be calmer, while evening slots can be popular because of long light in summer.
Suitability & Accessibility
Vök is a strong fit for Ring Road travelers who want a reliable, comfortable soak without turning the day into a major logistics project. It also works for people who prefer a modern facility but still want an outdoor, nature-facing setting.
Families
Family friendly, with youth pricing and free entry for very young children listed by the operator. As always, keep children to shorter soak rounds and keep them close on wet decks and ladders.
Couples and solo travelers
Couples tend to like Vök for the lake view and late summer hours. Solo travelers like it because the facility is easy to manage alone, with clear flow from entry to changing rooms to pools.
Mobility realities
No hiking required, but expect wet surfaces, steps, and transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. I’m not claiming wheelchair access without verified step-free route and water-entry specifics. If you need step-free planning, contact the operator and ask about the easiest entry and any current seasonal surface issues (ice, snow, slick decking).
Expectations vs reality
This is a designed, maintained facility. You’re not soaking in a wild creek. The trade-off is comfort, clean logistics, and a setting that still feels distinctly East Iceland.
Safety & Etiquette
Start with a short round
If you’re arriving after a long drive, your body can be more heat sensitive than you expect. Do a short first soak, then reassess. You’ll usually enjoy the second round more.
Deck safety
Wet wood and stone get slick. Traction sandals are the easy fix, and it’s fine to take your time. If you’re carrying a phone, keep it secured, wet hands drop things fast.
Shower etiquette
Plan on showering properly before soaking. It keeps shared water pleasant and is normal Iceland pool culture. A quick, thorough wash is usually all it takes.
Kids and heat
Children overheat faster than adults. Offer water, build in breaks, and avoid long sessions without cooling down. Keep them from sprinting on wet decking, that’s when slips happen.
Shared-space basics
It goes best when people leave entry points clear and keep personal items out of walkways. Keep voices lower in quieter zones, and be careful with photos so other guests aren’t the subject.
Lake-edge weather
Wind and rain can roll in quickly. Have a warm layer ready for after soaking so you don’t chill while you dry off.
FAQs
What are Vök Baths’ opening hours?
They publish seasonal hours: June 15 to September 15 is 10:00 to 23:00 daily, and September 16 to June 14 is 12:00 to 22:00 daily. Guests can stay in pools until shortly before closing.
How much does admission cost?
The operator lists adult admission at 7,690 ISK, with reduced rates for students, seniors (67+), and disabled guests, plus youth pricing and free entry for children 0 to 5. Rentals (towel, swimsuit, bathrobe) are priced separately.
Where is Vök Baths located?
It’s on Lake Urriðavatn just outside Egilsstaðir, on Route 925. The operator lists GPS coordinates, which are included below for navigation.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, with supervision. Keep kids to shorter soak rounds, watch for slippery decks, and bring warm layers for breaks between sessions.
Do I need to book ahead?
Booking is available and helps if you want a specific time, especially evenings in summer. If you’re traveling through East Iceland on a fixed schedule, reserving a slot reduces uncertainty.