Bjorbodin Beer Spa in Iceland is the ultimate two-birds-one-stone scenario if you consider yourself a beer enthusiast or avid spa-goer. Or perhaps you just enjoy indulging in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whichever category you fall under, Bjorbodin is not to be missed.
In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the famous beer spa, and why this nectar of the gods is actually credited for improving wellness and not just stimulating taste buds.
Bjorbodin Beer Spa: An In-depth Breakdown
Bjorbodin might be one of many spa opportunities here on the island, but it’s definitely the one and only when it comes to acknowledging the benefits of our favorite brew. The name, Bjorbodin, literally translates to “Beer Baths”. And we get it; the image immediately conjured up is that of someone just lapping up bathwater. But that’s not how Bjorbodin works.
Bjorbodin focuses on two things: making people aware of how incredible Kaldi beer tastes and opening their eyes to the many health benefits beer offers. All the beer used at Bjorbodin comes from the local Kaldi Brewery which prides itself on its recipe of 100% natural ingredients. This is why you won’t find any unidentified chemicals in the beer baths filled with Kaldi beer, water, hops, and yeast.
While the beer baths are not for consumption, each tub comes with its own Kaldi beer tap, where anyone older than 20 can grab some refreshment as they lounge around in their beer bath. Bjorbodin boasts 7 beer baths in what resemble beer barrels made from real Kambala wood. But the beer baths are not where this beer spa begins and ends. The beer bath experience lasts roughly 25 minutes before visitors move on to the outside area.
Here, they can soak in one of two hot tubs big enough for 8 to 10 people each with breathtaking views of the mountains, Porvalds Valley, and Hrisey Island. It’s also in the outside area that one can opt for a visit to the sauna or to grab a bite to eat at the restaurant. The restaurant has a distinct beer theme, so many meals will incorporate some element of the brew. Ironically, the drinks menu includes everything from coffee and sodas to wine, vodka, and, yes, beer.
We would just like to give a little disclaimer here: it goes without saying that a beer spa priding itself on its natural ingredients will unfortunately not be suitable for some with allergies. Therefore, those with yeast or gluten allergies are advised to stick to the outdoor facilities. We also recommend that anyone with high blood pressure or heart problems speak to their physician first before making use of any steam baths, hot springs, or geothermal pools here in Iceland.
The Health and Wellness Benefits of Beer
This is something many probably feel like they’ve waited their entire life to hear. Unfortunately, the benefits are mostly internally and via skin absorption (but nice try). Nevertheless, these are some of the benefits proven by research:
- Hops are both antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, which fight off illness and bacterial growth.
- The brewer’s yeast in beer has very high levels of Vitamin B which activates enzymes and stimulates skin rejuvenation.
- The same Vitamin B restores intestinal microflora, which improves digestion and strengthens your immune system.
- Then, of course, there’s the warmth itself, which soothes all sorts of aches and pains, especially muscular or joint pain.
- The warmth also opens up the pores to flush out the bad and help absorb the good, such as antioxidants and vitamins.
- The warmth also boasts with improving blood circulation.
- Needless to say, an experience such as this helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
- And many will be happy to hear that this experience also helps to hydrate the skin and smooth out those dreaded wrinkles.
Where to Find Bjorbodin Beer Baths in Iceland
Bjorbodin lies in the north of Iceland in Arskogssandur on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. It is just south of Dalvik and a short 30-minute drive from Akureyri, known as the capital city of the north.
Getting to Bjorbodin
Getting yourself into a beer bath in Iceland will only happen in one of two ways:
Via a Tour
Bjorbodin is a popular spot for visitors, so you’re sure to find a tour or two with the beer spa as a destination. If you’re struggling to find what you’re looking for, you can always request a customized private tour from one of the local tour operators or guides who will be happy to oblige.
Via a Self-drive
A self-drive is always the best way to discover a new place, and when you’re driving from the direction of Akureyri, the self-drive directions are pretty easy to follow:
- Take Strangata to Glerargata.
- Follow Pjodvegur and Olafsfjardarvegur to Arskogsstrandarvegur in Dalvikurbyggd.
- Continue on Arskogsstrandarvegur.
- Continue onto Aegisgata where Bjorbodin Beer Spa will be number 31.
How Much Does a Ticket to Bjorbodin Cost?
Entry to the beer baths is charged as follows:
- Per Adult (those 13+ years of age) = 17 900 ISK (+/-$129/€120.05)
- Per Couple = 23 900 ISK (+/-$173/€160.30)
- Children 12 Years and Younger = Free
While the cost of the beer baths also includes the use of the outdoor facilities, those who only wish to use the outdoor amenities can do so at the following price:
- Per Adult = 2 000 ISK (+/-$14.45/€13.45)
- Children Between the Ages of 12 and 16 = 1 000 ISK (+/-$7.20/€6.75)
- Children 12 Years and Younger = Free
*Please note that entry fees do not include food or drinks at the restaurant or bar and also exclude any rentals such as towels or robes.
Open and Closing Times at Iceland’s Beer Spa, Bjorbodin
Until special notice or any seasonal changes, the following are the various open and closing times at Bjorbodin Beer Spa:
The Beer Spa and Outside Facilities
Tuesday to Saturday – 12:00 to 21:00
Sunday – Closed
The Restaurant and Bar
Tuesday to Saturday – 12:00 to 21:00
Sunday – Closed
No Drunk Driving Necessary!
Who are we kidding? You don’t go to a beer spa where you lounge in a vat filled with beer with beer on tap next to you and walk out well within the legal driving limit (which is less than one beer, by the way).
If you’ve rented a campervan in Iceland and stopped at Bjorbodin for a break, it couldn’t be more convenient. It’s always better to be safe than sorry (Icelanders definitely do not take kindly to road rule breakers), so grab a snooze or a glass of water, and ensure you stay on the right side of the law before continuing your exciting exploration of the island.
