Ever heard of Laugarvatn Fontana? It's this cozy little spot tucked away in the heart of Iceland, right near the famous Golden Circle. Imagine dipping into blissful geothermal baths with a backdrop of stunning landscapes—that's Laugarvatn Fontana for you. But wait, there's more!
This place isn't just about unwinding in warm waters; it's a culinary journey, too. Think freshly baked bread, but with a twist—it's cooked using the heat from the earth itself! Having explored the nooks and crannies of Iceland, we're here to share the inside scoop.
So, let's dive into what makes Laugarvatn Fontana a must-visit for both relaxation seekers and foodies alike. Ready to soak up the warmth and taste the tradition? Stick with us!
The Charm of Laugarvatn Fontana
Nestled by the serene Lake Laugarvatn, Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths offers an enchanting blend of relaxation, historical intrigue, and culinary delight. Laugarvatn sits in a geothermal hot zone, blessed with boiling waters from beneath the earth that form mesmerizing hot springs.
These naturally heated waters are ingeniously utilized for cooking, bathing, and even medicinal steam baths, laying the cultural and practical foundation for the Laugarvatn settlement. Of the three hot springs along the lake's shore, Vígðalaug is the most celebrated, known for its historical significance dating back to 1000 AD when it served as the baptism site for the entire Icelandic parliament upon Iceland's conversion to Christianity.
Laugarvatn Fontana, rebuilt in 2011 on the legacy of a spa dating back to 1929, taps into the middle spring, offering visitors a modern retreat into wellness that intertwines with the rich tapestry of Icelandic history. This has to be one of the best hot springs in Iceland, hands down!
Facilities at The Fontana Spa in Iceland
If you're looking to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, Laugarvatn Fontana has got you covered. Here are some of the facilities you can enjoy during your visit:
Steam Rooms
The Laugarvatn Fontana steam baths are not your average steam baths. Picture you're sitting there, and right beneath the floor grids, you can hear the sizzle of the boiling hot spring. It's like nature's own spa!
The steam temperature dances between 40°C and 50°C (104°F and 122°F), depending on the whims of the hot spring and the day's weather. Plus, these steam room cabins boast sky-high humidity levels, making for an experience that's as authentic as it is unique.
Geothermal Pools and Hot Tubs
Dive into Laugarvatn Fontana's geothermal pools - Lauga, Sæla, and Viska. These interconnected outdoor mineral baths offer a unique blend of relaxation and recreation, with varying depths, sizes, and temperatures to suit everyone's preferences.
Imagine soaking in the healthful, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by Icelandic artist Erla Thorarinsdottir's playful stone artwork. For those seeking a panoramic view, the Viska Hot Tub is perched at a higher level, providing a serene backdrop to your soaking experience.
Finish-Style Sauna
Next up, we've got the Ylur Finnish-style sauna, cozily nestled right next to the steam rooms. It cranks the heat up between 80°C (176°F) and 90°C (194°F), offering a drier alternative to the steamy embraces of the geothermal pools. Through a grand window, it gifts bathers with an iconic lake view, blending relaxation with a touch of scenic beauty.
The Fontana Bakery
At the heart of Laugarvatn Fontana's culinary marvels is the Fontana Bakery, where tradition meets innovation. Following an age-old recipe, their Icelandic lava bread is nothing short of a gastronomic spectacle. The method?
Baking rye bread by burying it in the geothermally heated earth, letting it slowly cook for 24 hours. Imagine the aroma as guests gather to witness the bread, rich with history and flavor, being dug up from the ground. This process not only imbues the bread with a unique taste but encapsulates the essence of geothermal energy.
Visiting Laugarvatn Fontana: Practical Information
Ready to plan your trip to this slice of Fontana geothermal baths? Here are some practical information to ensure you make the most of your visit:
Admission Prices And Opening Hours
Laugarvatn Fontana welcomes guests every day from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. To ensure your spot, it's best to book your tickets in advance. Plus, you can rent towels, bathrobes, and swimsuits to enhance your visit.
Admission Prices
Adults (17-66): On-site admission is priced at 4990 ISK ($37).
Youth (10-16): Enjoy a discounted rate of 2990 ISK ($22).
Children (0-9): Free when accompanied by an adult (maximum two children per adult).
Senior Citizens (67+): Admission is 2990 ISK ($22).
Disabled Guests: Also eligible for the discounted rate of 2990 ISK ($22).
Rental Prices
Bathrobe: 1500 ISK ($11)
Towel: 1000 ISK ($7)
Swimsuit: 1000 ISK ($7)
Geothermal Bakery Tour
An exciting part of the experience is the Iceland bread in the ground tour, available daily at 10:15 am (1st June - 30th Sept), 11:45 am, and 2:30 pm. Whether you're an individual or part of a small group, you can book your spot online. For adults and youth over 13, the tour costs 2990 ISK ($22), while children aged 0-12 can join for free when accompanied by an adult.
How to Get To Laugarvatn Fontana
Heading to Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths is a breeze and a true highlight for any popular tourist itinerary. Nestled in the picturesque village of Laugarvatn, just a 50-minute drive from Reykjavík, these baths sit in an area celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and inviting climate. For those yearning to immerse in the essence of Iceland, here's the lowdown on getting there:
Driving
Laugarvatn is conveniently situated on road number 37, leading directly towards Geysir and Gullfoss - two of Iceland's other must-visit sights. A newly inaugurated road, number 354, offers direct access to Laugarvatn from the historical Þingvellir National Park, setting the stage for a scenic drive.
Trendy Travel
For the adventurers at heart, renting a campervan in Iceland emerges as the coolest way to explore Iceland's vast landscapes, including Laugarvatn Fontana. It not only offers a comfy place to sleep but adds a unique twist to your Icelandic saga. Check out our amazing range of campervans and discover Iceland today!
Private Tours
While there are no direct bus services to Laugarvatn Fontana, opting for a private tour can enrich your experience. These tours not only provide transportation but also the chance to absorb the majesty of Þingvellir National Park en route. Some tours might offer to include a delightful dinner at Laugarvatn Fontana's restaurant for an extra splash of luxury.
How Does Laugarvatn Fontana Compare to Other Geothermal Spas in Iceland?
Iceland is peppered with stunning geothermal spas, each offering unique experiences. Icons like Blue Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths attract folks with their milky blue waters and impressive landscapes.
But Laugarvatn Fontana? It's in a league of its own. What truly sets it apart is the geothermal bakery Iceland boasts about. Imagine enjoying a sauna session and then munching on freshly baked lava bread, a culinary delight cooked beneath the earth.
It's this blend of relaxation and traditional Icelandic culture that gives Laugarvatn Fontana its distinct charm, distinguishing it from any other geothermal spa adventure in Iceland.
What Other Attractions Can You Visit Near Laugarvatn Fontana?
Nestled in a tranquil Icelandic setting, Laugarvatn Fontana offers the perfect starting point to explore some of the country's most iconic attractions. Here are some must-visit places near Laugarvatn Fontana:
Thingvellir National Park: Located just 15 minutes away, Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Iceland's oldest existing parliament. It's a landscape brimming with natural wonders, including dramatic rift valleys, volcanic craters, and crystal-clear lakes.
Geysir Geothermal Area: No trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to the famous Geysir geothermal area - home to hot springs and spouting geysers that are sure to leave you in awe. Located just a 30-minute drive from Laugarvatn Fontana, this stunning area is part of the famed Golden Circle route that every tourist must visit.
Gullfoss Waterfall: Also located on the Golden Circle route, Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland's most iconic natural attractions. Witness the majestic power of this two-tiered waterfall and feel its misty spray on your face as you gaze in wonder.
Kerid Crater: A stunning volcanic crater filled with vibrant blue water, Kerid is just a 20-minute drive from Laugarvatn Fontana. It's an Instagram-worthy spot that offers breathtaking views and unique hiking opportunities.
Best Time to Visit
Deciding on the best time to visit Laugarvatn Fontana really boils down to what you're looking for in your geothermal spa experience. Here's the scoop:
Whenever it Fits Your Schedule: Since the waters are always naturally hot, any time is a good time.
Morning Bliss: For the early birds, hitting the hot springs in the morning is a dream. Imagine starting your day with a serene dip, enjoying the tranquil views of Lake Laugarvatn without the crowds.
Aurora Nights: Seeking something truly magical? Plan a nighttime visit. Picture yourself relaxing in the warm, natural hot waters under a sky painted with the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. It's an experience that's hard to beat.
FAQs About Laugarvatn Fontana
What should I bring to Laugarvatn Fontana?
Pack your swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and don't forget a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Optional: Bathrobe and a waterproof case for your phone or camera.
Can I visit Laugarvatn Fontana during the winter?
Absolutely! Laugarvatn Fontana is open year-round, offering a cozy winter escape with steaming hot baths amidst the snowy landscape.
Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes, options range from cozy bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels catering to all tastes and budgets.
How does the geothermal bread baking work?
Geothermal bread is baked in the ground using heat from the earth, creating a uniquely rich and sweet rye bread.
What are the health benefits of geothermal baths?
Geothermal baths boost circulation, ease muscle soreness, and promote relaxation and skin health through mineral-rich waters.