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Sundlaugin Laugaskarði swimming pool in Hveragerði, CR
Photo: Google
View of Sundlaugin Laugaskarði in Hveragerði, CR
Photo: Google
View of Sundlaugin Laugaskarði in Hveragerði, CR
Photo: Google

Sundlaugin Laugaskarði

4.7(200 reviews)Sports
🕑 1.5 to 2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-14. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the shallow children's sections, while school-age kids love the water slides. Teens and tweens appreciate the hot tubs and longer slides.

About

This geothermally heated municipal pool offers authentic Icelandic swimming culture with dedicated children's areas, exciting water slides, and relaxing hot tubs that parents will love too. The naturally heated pools stay comfortably warm year-round, making it a perfect family activity regardless of weather, and the 4.7-star rating reflects its popularity with both locals and visitors.

Highlights

  • Multiple water slides that kids can ride repeatedly
  • Separate shallow children's pool areas perfect for younger swimmers
  • Several hot tubs at varying temperatures for family relaxation
  • Year-round warm geothermal water heated naturally from underground
  • Authentic local Icelandic pool experience away from tourist crowds

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Bring your own towels and swimsuits as rentals can be expensive. Icelandic pool etiquette requires thorough showering without swimsuits before entering (staff will enforce this).
  2. 2.Visit during weekday afternoons to avoid morning lap swimmers and after-school crowds. Weekends get busier, especially Saturday afternoons with local families.
  3. 3.Pack flip-flops or water shoes as floors can be slippery. Bring snacks in your bag as on-site food options may be limited.
  4. 4.Purchase a reusable towel wristband for lockers. Keep Icelandic króna coins handy as some facilities still use coin-operated lockers.
  5. 5.The geothermal water has a slight sulfur smell, which is normal and harmless. Reassure sensitive kids beforehand that it is part of the natural experience.

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings (9-11 AM) or early afternoons (1-3 PM) Tuesday through Thursday for the quietest experience. Winter visits are magical as steam rises off the warm pools in cold air, though any season works well.

What to Know

Admission is very affordable (typically 1,000-1,500 ISK per adult, kids cheaper). Free parking is available on-site. No cafe, so eat beforehand or bring snacks. Shower facilities are communal with changing areas.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent hours. Winter swimming is especially memorable with steam rising from hot pools into cold air. Weekend hours are shorter (10 AM start), so plan accordingly. Summer offers extended evening hours during Iceland's long daylight.

Nearby Eats

Hveragerði town center (5-minute drive) has several family-friendly options including Kjöt & Kúnst restaurant for hearty Icelandic meals and a local bakery (Bakari Hveragerdi) perfect for post-swim treats. The town also has a small grocery store (Kronan) for picnic supplies.

More Activities Near Hveragerði

Cafe

Sunnan Café

$

Sunnan Café is a cozy local spot in Hveragerði where families can warm up with delicious hot chocolate and homemade treats after exploring Iceland's geothermal wonders. The welcoming community atmosphere makes it easy for parents to relax while kids enjoy freshly baked pastries and a casual environment where little voices are part of the charm.

Ice Cream

Litli Kaffi

$

Litli Kaffi is a charming local ice cream shop in Hveragerði where families can treat themselves to authentic homemade Icelandic ice cream and sweet delights. This cozy spot offers a perfect pit stop for families exploring Iceland's geothermal town, with kid-friendly flavors and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to relax after a day of adventure.

Adventure

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

4.7

Reykjadalur offers a unique family adventure combining a scenic 3.5km hike through steaming geothermal valleys with the reward of bathing in a naturally heated river. Kids will be amazed by bubbling hot springs, steam vents, and the opportunity to swim in warm water surrounded by dramatic Icelandic landscapes. This memorable experience blends outdoor exploration with a natural spa day that children absolutely love.

Museum

LÁ Art Museum

4.7

LÁ Art Museum is a welcoming community art space in the geothermal town of Hveragerði that invites families to explore creativity together. With hands-on workshops, rotating exhibitions designed with children in mind, and creative classes where parents and kids can make art side by side, it's a perfect rainy day activity or cultural break from Iceland's natural attractions.