Vesturbæjarlaug Geothermal Pool

Lonely Planet review

Within walking distance of the centre (or take bus 15), Vesturbæjarlaug has a basic 25m pool and three hot pots.

Reykjavík's heavenly pools (and beach) are the heart of the city's social life: children play, teenagers flirt, business deals are made, and everyone catches up with the latest gossip. Volcanic water keeps the temperature at a mellow 29°C, and most of the baths have heitir pottar (hot pots), Jacuzzi-like pools kept at a toasting 37°C to 42°C. Admission usually costs around Ikr280 /around Ikr120 for adults/children aged 6 to 15, and towels and swimming costumes can be rented for around Ikr300 each. Reykjavíkurs get very upset by dirty tourists in their nice, clean pools (for good reason - the city's pools are free of chemicals). To avoid causing huge offence, visitors must wash thoroughly without a swimsuit before hopping in. For further information see www.spacity.is.