Iceland is known for its hot springs, which can be found all over the island. This is due to all the volcanic activity on the island heating up the underground water supply.
Whilst some hot springs can still be enjoyed in their original form and their natural setting, others are simply too difficult to reach or are too hot for humans to use as is. The water from these hot springs is then used in man-made geothermal pools. Krauma Spa, which opened in 2018, is one of the latest additions to the geothermal pool family here in Iceland.
So, if you are looking to experience one of the natural wonders of the island, whilst having a relaxing soak in warm water offering up breathtaking views, then Krauma should definitely make it onto your Iceland trip itinerary.
What You Can Expect From a Visit to the Krauma Geothermal Baths
Krauma offers visitors the opportunity to relax in six pools – five warm and one cold. Some of these pools are in beautiful shell shapes. The pools are 100% natural and contain no chemicals, since the natural flow of the hot spring ensures that the water is constantly replaced.
As with most geothermal pools, one can look forward to all sorts of added extras, facilities, and amenities. At Krauma you will find changing rooms which include a locker for every guest, saunas, a relaxation room, as well as a restaurant specializing in Icelandic cuisine, and using fresh produce from a local farm.
Where Does the Krauma Baths’ Water Come From?
Krauma’s hot spring water forms part of its claim to fame. It comes from Deildartunguhver (officially Europe’s most powerful hot spring). This hot spring pumps out a staggering 180 liters per second and stays consistently at a Kentucky-friend-human heat of 100 degrees Celsius.
But Deildartunguhver isn’t just used to heat Krauma’s water, it’s actually used to heat up homes and businesses in the area. In fact, it’s credited for heating homes and businesses within a 60+ kilometer radius all around it (which, of course, includes Krauma Spa).
Where is Krauma Spa in Iceland?
As we already touched on, Krauma Spa is near Deildartunguhver Hot Spring in Reykholt, West Iceland. It lies between Borgarnes (roughly 35 kilometers away) and Husafell, approximately 97 kilometers from the capital city of Reykjavík.
How Can You Visit Krauma in Iceland?
You essentially have two options for getting to Krauma Spa:
Via a Tour
Many local tour operators offer packages that include Krauma as a stop. Alternatively, you can get a local guide to give you a private and customized tour of local attractions, including Krauma.
If a tour is the route you’d prefer to go, you just need to keep in mind that summer (June to September) is our peak season here on the island, and guides and tours book up very quickly. So rather make a booking well in advance for a summer trip to Iceland to avoid any disappointment.
Via a Self-drive
This will always be our preferred method of travel when exploring the island. And although Krauma is close enough to the capital city to make a day trip out of it, we highly recommend that you make it a stop along a Ring Road road trip. To get to Krauma from Reykjavík is pretty easy – simply get on the Ring Road towards Borgarnes. Krauma can be found on Road 50.
When is the Best Time to Visit Krauma Spa?
When exactly you plan on visiting Krauma will remain completely up to you, as the Krauma Baths are open all year round, and the main road one needs to take to the baths is paved and well-maintained (especially during our harsher winter weather).
Still, the biggest factor will, of course, be the weather. As an outdoor activity, you may not want to sit in the baths when it’s freezing outside (despite the pools being hot), and when things such as 35+ kilometer an hour winds or blizzards hit, you most definitely don’t want to try and take a relaxing soak.
Winter in Iceland is from December to March but can be experienced as early as November and as late as April.
How Long Does a Visit to Krauma Take?
The drive from Reykjavík is between 1-1.5 hours, depending on your speed and road conditions. Although the time spent at Krauma will be completely up to you as the entrance fee gives you access for the entire day, most people will spend about half a day there, soaking in the warm water, sitting in the sauna, and grabbing a bite to eat.
If you are planning on doing a day trip, you’ll need to keep in mind that it’s going to take another 1-1.5 hours to drive back. Those who make Krauma a stop along their road trip will be able to lounge around a bit longer, especially if they are planning on staying overnight somewhere in the area.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Krauma Hot Springs?
As a man-made geothermal pool with a bunch of amenities and facilities to maintain, you will be required to pay an entrance fee to Krauma Spa. Entry at Krauma costs roughly $41.50 per adult, $20.75 per teen between the ages of 13 to 16, and $2.81 for children up to 12 years of age.
Krauma also offers a few helpful add-ons such as swimwear and towel rentals (for the forgetful ones out there) at $7 per rental, and you can even rent a bathrobe at $11.25. These charges are obviously what you can expect from a self-drive visit. If you are visiting via a tour, costs will be determined by the guide/tour operator.
Krauma Spa; the Cream of the Hot Spring Crop
As you can see, Krauma is one of the newest and most modern additions to the geothermal pools here in Iceland, and its location and exceptional facilities have already made it a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike.
If you would like to add it as a stop on your road trip itinerary, simply rent a car in Iceland and head out on the Ring Road. We can assure you that a self-drive is definitely the way to go to truly immerse yourself in the landscape and be the captain at the helm of your Icelandic adventure.