Secret Lagoon Guide
Secret Lagoon: Iceland's Oldest Geothermal Pool - A Hidden Gem Guide
The Secret Lagoon, located in the Golden Circle area of Iceland, is a natural hot spring and the oldest swimming pool in the country. Unlike the more crowded Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon offers a more intimate and authentic Icelandic bathing experience. Surrounded by geothermal activity, including bubbling hot springs and a small geyser that erupts every few minutes, this hidden gem provides a relaxing and unique way to connect with Iceland's natural wonders. The Secret Lagoon, known locally as Gamla Laugin (the old pool), was officially opened in 1891. It served as a popular swimming spot for locals for many years before falling into disuse. In recent years, it has been renovated and reopened to the public, offering modern facilities while retaining its rustic charm. The surrounding area is rich in geothermal activity, a testament to Iceland's volcanic landscape. Visitors to the Secret Lagoon can relax in the naturally heated water, which maintains a comfortable temperature of 38-40°C (100-104°F) year-round. The surrounding landscape provides a stunning backdrop for your soak. You can also explore the geothermal area around the lagoon, observing the bubbling hot springs and the small geyser. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the Secret Lagoon, the nearby town of Fludir is known for its geothermal greenhouses, where vegetables are grown year-round using the earth's natural heat. Many restaurants in the area feature these locally grown ingredients in their dishes.
Transportation
The Secret Lagoon is located near the town of Fludir, which is part of the Golden Circle route. The easiest way to reach it is by car. From Reykjavik, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) east, then turn onto Route 30 towards Fludir. The Secret Lagoon is well-signposted. Several tour operators also offer Golden Circle tours that include a stop at the Secret Lagoon. Public bus transportation to Fludir is limited, so renting a car or joining a tour is the most convenient option.