Iceland has hundreds of hot springs all across the country. While some are still found in their natural settings, others that are too hot or not easily accessed, are used in our man-made geothermal pools. These pools usually offer all sorts of extras and feel more like resorts for relaxation. One of these getaways to tranquillity is Krauma Spa.
Krauma has all the added amenities and facilities many of the other geothermal pools in Iceland have, but it also boasts a modern finish and unique aesthetic that’s not often seen in these parts. So, if you will be coming to the island in the future, and would like to lounge in ultimate luxury and tranquillity, read on, because Krauma offers exactly that.
Krauma: A Brief Overview
As one of the new kids on the geothermal block, the Krauma baths has a modern take on things. It has six pools, with sleek modern finishes, some of which are in the shape of shells. Lounging in one of these also means incredible views over the Icelandic landscape. Krauma is a little off the beaten path, so the peace and quiet one experiences there really leaves an impression.
Another reason why Krauma is such a unique hot spring experience is that no chemicals are used to keep the pools clean. It is the natural flow of the water (which, as you’ll find out, is pretty rapid) that ensures that the water is constantly replacing itself. Krauma uses the water from the infamous Deildartunguhver hot spring.
Deildartunguhver has water that stays at about 100 degrees Celsius and is used to heat the homes and businesses within a staggering 60+ kilometer radius of the hot spring! The water flows at an astounding 180 liters per second, making Deildartunguhver the most powerful hot spring in Europe. As if the pools and the water’s origins aren’t impressive enough, you also have the added amenities and facilities at Krauma to look forward to:
- Relaxation Room – this room is relaxation defined with its dim, lighting, lounge chairs, soothing music, and crackling fireplace.
- Sauna – there are two types of saunas to enjoy: the Infrared Sauna and the Steam Room.
- Restaurant – the restaurant prides itself on creating authentic Icelandic dishes with a modern twist, made from the freshest local ingredients.
Where is Krauma Spa in Iceland?
The Krauma Geothermal Baths are located in Reykholt in the western part of the island. It sits roughly mid-way between Borgarnes and Husafell. While visiting the Krauma Hot Springs as a day outing is possible from Reykjavik (roughly 97 kilometers away), many prefer having it as a pitstop along their Ring Road road trip.
Getting to Krauma in Iceland
You will essentially have two options when it comes to visiting Krauma:
You Can Book a Spot on a Tour
Krauma is a popular destination, so you will find it as a destination on many of the tour packages our local tour operators and guides have to offer. These can be in the form of day tours, as well as multi-day holiday tours. Alternatively, you can also request a customized private tour.
You Can Drive Yourself
This will always be our preferred method of travel here on the island since you’ll always be the one in charge of your time and itinerary. Getting to Krauma from the capital city is very simple: Drive in the direction of Borgarnes on the Ring Road where you will find Krauma on Road 50.
When is the Best Time to Go to the Krauma Geothermal Baths?
Krauma is open all year round, so when you go will ultimately be up to you. When making your decision, you should just take the following into consideration:
- As an outdoor venue, many prefer to visit during the warmer months on the island, especially in summer. Just keep in mind that summer in Iceland (June to August) is peak season, which means peak season crowds, and peak season pricing.
- Because of the above, many opt to visit the island during the shoulder months (April/May or September/October) when you still get most of the summertime perks, but at a less hefty price tag.
- Many swear by the exhilarating experience of relaxing in the warm waters of a hot spring with the crisp cold winter air outside. You might also enjoy this experience, You’ll never know till you’ve tried, right?
- As thrilling as the abovementioned can be, as nerve-wracking the road conditions can be during the colder months. The roads can become quite tricky to navigate for those not used to ice and snow on the roads or our legendary Icelandic winds.
- If you decide to visit during our “down” season (any month that doesn’t fall in the summertime), just remember to check operating hours. While Krauma Spa is open between 11:00 and 21:00, 7 days a week during peak season, operating hours may decrease or change during the “down” season.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Krauma?
The entrance fee to Krauma will give you access to all the amenities for an entire day, excluding any food and drinks. Entrance fees are as follows:
- Adults (anyone 17+) = $41.50
- Teens (between the ages of 13 and 16) = $20.75
- Children (Under the age of 12) = $2.81
There is also the option of a few additional extras:
- Towel Rental = $7
- Swimwear Rental =$7
- Bathrobe Rental = $11.25
Other Attractions Near the Krauma Geothermal Baths
There’s plenty more to see and do near Krauma. These are some of the highlights you can look forward to:
- Deildartunguhver (the origin of Krauma’s hot water, remember?).
- Fridheimar Farm (remember to try their tomato beer!).
- Sturlureykir Horse Farm.
- Hraunfossar Waterfall.
- Reykholtskirkja.
- Snorrastofa (a church and study center, but also a museum about, Snorri Sturluson, one of our famous poets and just an interesting character overall here in Iceland).
Krauma Spa: Where Tranquility Meets Rejuvenation
If you’re planning on exploring the island via road trip, Krauma makes the perfect stop to take a breather, relax, and get reenergized for the next items on your itinerary. By renting a motorhome in Iceland, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities.
You’ll be adding to the comfort and convenience of your road trip, and you’ll also be able to take advantage of our breathtaking (but affordable!) campgrounds. So, come and experience ultimate tranquillity and rejuvenation at Krauma while on your Iceland road trip filled with other exciting and thrilling stops.
