Fontana Geothermal Spa

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Spa

Fontana Geothermal Spa is a tranquil retreat located on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn in Iceland’s Golden Circle region. This serene hot spring spa offers visitors the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in naturally heated geothermal baths while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The spa is renowned for its blend of modern wellness facilities and traditional Icelandic bathing culture, providing a unique experience that combines relaxation with a deep connection to nature.

Fontana features several outdoor mineral-rich hot pools of varying temperatures, a Finnish-style sauna, and a steam room built directly over a natural hot spring, allowing steam to rise naturally through the floor. After soaking in the warm waters, guests can cool off with a refreshing dip in the pristine waters of Lake Laugarvatn. The spa also offers the chance to try traditional Icelandic rye bread, known as "rúgbrauð," which is baked underground using the natural heat of the hot springs.

Fontana Facts

Laugarvatn Fontana offers a relaxing geothermal experience with various pools, saunas, and a lakeside location. The spa is fed by natural hot springs, which heat the baths and steam rooms. It has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals due to its peaceful surroundings and the healing properties of its waters. Here's a quick overview of key facts:

• Established: 1929 (with modern renovations in 2011)
• Water Temperature: 32°C – 40°C (90°F – 104°F)
• Sauna Temperature: Around 80°C (176°F)
• Visitors per year: Over 100,000
• Average time spent: 2–3 hours
• Facilities: Changing rooms, showers, café, and shop

Fontana Geology

Laugarvatn Fontana’s geothermal baths draw their warmth from the earth’s natural geothermal activity. Situated in the south of Iceland, the area lies on an active geothermal zone. Natural hot springs under the surface heat the water, providing bathers with mineral-rich water that is said to have healing properties for the skin and body. The steam rooms at Fontana are unique because they are located directly above natural hot springs, allowing steam to rise through the floor in a natural and therapeutic way.

The geothermal activity around the area has been essential to the local community for centuries, and this makes the Fontana Spa a part of the region’s long tradition of harnessing geothermal energy.

What to Expect at Laugarvatn Fontana

Laugarvatn Fontana offers a variety of geothermal pools, saunas, and services that make it a top destination for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the following:

• Pools and Baths: Fontana has a collection of different pools, each heated naturally. The main pool is large and kept at a comfortable 37°C (98.6°F), while a smaller, hotter pool reaches 40°C (104°F). You can also enjoy a cold dip in Lake Laugarvatn, a popular tradition in Iceland.
• Steam Rooms: The steam rooms at Fontana are particularly unique, located directly over natural hot springs, allowing for an authentic experience. The rooms provide soothing, mineral-rich steam, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake while relaxing.
• Sauna: The traditional dry sauna offers a different kind of heat, kept at around 80°C (176°F), perfect for sweating out toxins and rejuvenating the body.
• Changing Rooms and Showers: Fontana provides clean and spacious changing rooms equipped with lockers and showers. Towels and bathrobes can be rented on-site, but it's a good idea to bring your own swimsuit.
• Fontana Café: The on-site café offers a selection of Icelandic dishes, drinks, and snacks. The café’s dining area provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Parking and Access: There's ample free parking at Fontana, and the road leading to the spa is accessible year-round.
• Winter Experience: Fontana is open in winter, and soaking in the hot pools with snow all around is an unforgettable experience, especially in the evening.

The Rye Bread Experience

A unique offering at Laugarvatn Fontana is the so-called Rye Bread Experience, where one can observe how traditional Icelandic rye bread is baked in the ground using geothermal heat. The way this bread is prepared is by being cooked for 24 hours inside the earth and resulting in sweet, dense bread — a true local delicacy. Right after digging up the bread from its cooking spot, visitors may enjoy a slice with butter.

How Does Fontana Compare?

Laugarvatn Fontana vs Blue Lagoon

While the Blue Lagoon is larger and more famous, Fontana offers a more intimate and peaceful experience. Unlike the Blue Lagoon, which is situated in a lava field, Fontana's setting is more forested and offers lake views. Fontana’s pools are smaller, but visitors often prefer its tranquil atmosphere, free from the crowds of the Blue Lagoon. Fontana is also a more affordable option for visitors who want a natural geothermal spa experience without the higher cost of the Blue Lagoon.

Laugarvatn Fontana vs Secret Lagoon

Compared to the Secret Lagoon, Fontana provides a more modern experience, with additional amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, and a café. The Secret Lagoon offers a more rustic, authentic experience, while Fontana blends luxury and tradition.

Fontana and the Golden Circle

Laugarvatn Fontana is located on the popular Golden Circle route, making it an ideal stop for those exploring some of Iceland’s most famous attractions. Close to Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park, Fontana offers a relaxing break during a day of sightseeing. Visitors can spend a couple of hours soaking in the geothermal baths before heading off to explore the next landmark.

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Nearby Accommodations

Whether visitors are looking for luxury accommodation or a rugged camping adventure travelers have plenty of options close to Laugarvatn Fontana Spa.

Hotels Near Laugarvatn Fontana

Hotel Laugarvatn

• Location: Close to Laugarvatn Fontana, just a few minutes’ walk from the spa.
• Overview: A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms with minimalist decor inspired by Icelandic nature. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with easy access to Fontana’s geothermal baths and nearby attractions like the Golden Circle.
• Notable Features: On-site restaurant, beautiful lake views, wellness packages available for spa-goers.

Héraðsskólinn Historic Guesthouse

• Location: Situated in the village of Laugarvatn, within walking distance of Fontana.
• Overview: This charming guesthouse, located in a historic school building, offers cozy rooms with unique character. Its rustic decor and shared spaces create a homely and social atmosphere ideal for travelers.
• Notable Features: Historical architecture, communal kitchen, café, and game room.

Hotel Edda Íkí Laugarvatn

• Location: Centrally located in Laugarvatn, just a short walk from Laugarvatn Fontana.
• Overview: This seasonal hotel offers a comfortable stay with basic amenities and views of Lake Laugarvatn. A great option for budget-conscious travelers exploring the Golden Circle.
• Notable Features: Lake views, casual dining options, close proximity to the spa and local hiking trails.

Guesthouses Near Laugarvatn Fontana

Golden Circle Apartments

• Location: Near Laugarvatn Fontana, in the village center.
• Overview: Spacious apartments with modern amenities, perfect for families or groups seeking a self-catering option. Each unit includes a full kitchen, a cozy living area, and views of the surrounding landscape.
• Notable Features: Full kitchen facilities, mountain and lake views, ideal for extended stays.

Galleri Laugarvatn

• Location: Central Laugarvatn, close to the geothermal spa.
• Overview: A family-run guesthouse and gallery showcasing local art, Galleri Laugarvatn offers unique accommodations with artistic decor. The guesthouse has a welcoming atmosphere, with a café and a gallery space for guests to enjoy.
• Notable Features: Art gallery on-site, cozy café, excellent location for spa and nature access.

Camping Near Laugarvatn Fontana

Laugarvatn Campsite

• Location: Centrally located in Laugarvatn, within a 5-minute walk to Fontana.
• Overview: This well-maintained campsite offers affordable accommodations with basic amenities. Ideal for those who enjoy being outdoors, the campsite provides access to Laugarvatn Fontana and scenic walking trails.
• Notable Features: Clean facilities including showers and a cooking area, close proximity to the spa, scenic views of the surrounding nature.

Úthlíð Camping Site

• Location: A short drive from Laugarvatn, near the Golden Circle route.
• Overview: This scenic campsite provides peaceful surroundings with easy access to Laugarvatn Fontana and other Golden Circle attractions. Perfect for families and groups, with spacious tent and campervan sites.
• Notable Features: Well-maintained amenities, access to hiking trails, close to popular attractions like Gullfoss and Geysir.

Can I See the Northern Lights from Fontana Spa?

Yes, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights from the pools at Fontana. The location is remote and free from light pollution, making it an excellent spot to witness the aurora. However, the baths close at 9 PM, which might be too early for optimal Northern Lights viewing, as they are most commonly seen later in the evening.

Where is Fontana Geothermal Spa?

Fontana Geothermal Spa is located by Lake Laugarvatn, just a short drive from major Golden Circle attractions such as Gullfoss and Geysir.

• Coordinates: 64°12'53.2"N 20°43'48.7"W

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How to Get to Laugarvatn Fontana?

From Reykjavík: The drive to Laugarvatn Fontana from Reykjavík is about 80 km (50 miles), taking roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes along Route 36 and Route 365.

From Vík: If traveling from Vík, the distance is around 200 km (124 miles), and the drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes along Route 1 and Route 32.