Iceland is the mecca of hot springs. They can be found all over the island, where they can either be used in their natural form or as a man-made geothermal pool. While we have plenty of hot springs to go around, the Vök Baths certainly go down as one of the most unique and luxurious experiences you can have in Iceland.
This article serves as a guide to this incredible destination, letting you know everything from planning your visit to what to expect once there. The Vök Baths is definitely a must-visit stop on any Iceland trip itinerary.
The Vök Baths: A Quick Intro
The Vök Baths opened its doors (or should we say pools?) in 2019, making them one of the newer geothermal establishments on the island. They entered the scene with a bang, with their wonderfully strange-looking hexagonal heated pools, cold plunge, and various extra facilities and amenities.
Two hexagonal pools are level with the lake, so you can do some water “hopping”, between the warm pool and the cold lake. The small pool where one can take a cold plunge is entirely fed by the cold water of the lake. If you are a fan of the hot springs in Iceland, you would’ve noticed that most of our hot springs smell a bit “eggy”. That’s due to the sulfur in the water.
But in the waters of the Vök Baths, you won’t find any sulfur or silica, etc. In fact, the water of the Vök Baths is so pure and clean that it’s (technically) drinkable. Please note how we said “technical”, no one goes to hot springs to slurp up the water here in Iceland. If you’ve done enough soaking, there’s also the sauna, restaurant, and tea bar. And if you want some refreshments while soaking, you can also order something at the swim-up bar.
Where to Find the Vök Baths in Iceland
The Vök Baths is about a 5-minute drive away from Egilsstadir (often thought of as the capital city of East Iceland due to its size). The Baths lie nestled against Lake Urridavatn (the same lake where you can take your cold dip). Although some opt to visit the Vök Baths as a day outing from Egilsstadir, most choose to have it as a stop along a road trip since it’s very conveniently located against our popular Ring Road route.
Getting to the Vök Baths in Iceland
You’ll have a few options in regard to getting to the Vök Baths:
You Can Book a Spot on a Guided Tour
As such a unique place with impressive facilities and breathtaking views, it’s no surprise that it’s become a popular spot here in Iceland. That’s why you’ll find many of our local tour operators and guides who offer the Baths as part of their tour packages (whether day tours or multi-day holiday tours). Alternatively, you can also ask them about doing a customized private tour.
You Can Drive Yourself
We prefer being at the helm of our adventure at all times, so driving ourselves will always be our preferred method of travel. Driving to the Vök Baths from the direction of Egilsstadir also couldn’t be easier. Simply get on the Ring Road and start driving north. Cross Lake Lagarfljot and turn right on Route 925. You will see Lake Urridavatn on your left and after that, the Vök Baths.
When Should You Visit the Vök Baths?
The Vök Baths are open all year round, so when you visit will depend solely on your preferences and how you feel about the following:
- Summer in Iceland offers visitors the best weather with the longest daylight hours, so it’s obviously a favorite when visiting outdoor venues like the Vök Baths. But summer is also our peak season, so you’ll need to take peak-season crowds and peak-season prices here on the island into consideration.
- If you’re looking for some of the summer perks, but at more affordable prices, many opt to visit Iceland during the shoulder months of April/May or September/October.
- Others will tell you there’s nothing better than to swim in the hot springs during the colder months of the year with the contrast between the warm waters and the cold air offering an exhilarating experience.
- Just keep in mind that the colder months can face some weather and road conditions challenges. Although the Ring Road is a well-maintained main road, you’ll still have to deal with ice, snow, and pretty extreme winds on the road (which can be nerve-wracking to some who are not used to it). But just keep an eye on the Icelandic weather forecast and the Icelandic road conditions and you should be fine.
Opening & Closing Times of the Vök Baths
The opening and closing hours change throughout the year and on holidays:
During the summertime (15 June – 15 September)
10:00 to 23:00, 7 days a week
During the “down” season (16 September - 14 June)
12:00 to 22:00, 7 days a week
On Public Holidays
12:00 to 22:00, 7 days a week
During the Festive Season
10:00 to 16:00
Ticket Prices for the Vök Baths
Daily admission tickets will give you access to the pool and other facilities, lockers, floaters for the kids, and a Tisane welcome drink (a non-alcoholic drink similar to tea). It excludes any other food or drinks from the restaurant or bars. Entry fees are charged as follows:
- Adults = 6990 ISK (roughly $51/€46.95)
- Children aged between 6 and 16 = 3390 ISK (approximately $25/€22.80)
- Children aged between 0 and 5 = No cost
- Pensioners, the disabled, and students (you will need to have a valid student card with you) = 4990 ISK (roughly $36/€33.55)
Start Making Your Way to the Vök Baths!
With the Vök Baths so conveniently located on the Ring Road, packed with many Icelandic highlights, it's a no-brainer to make the Baths a stop along your road trip. If you rent a campervan in Iceland to do your road-tripping with, it adds an extra element of convenience and comfort that’s budget-friendly. So, embrace the spirit of exploration with a motorhome road trip around the island, and rejuvenate mind and body at the Vök Baths along the way.
