Picture this: A trinity of oceanfront hot tubs built right into the seawall of a sleepy Westfjord village. Driving through the eastern stretches of the region just around the bend of a mountain are the Drangsnes Hot Pots, set a few feet below the road smack in the middle of the tiny town.
Across the street is a white building which houses a changing facility, shower, and restroom, free of charge. Slide on in to your pool of choice and steep in the atmosphere.
The pools are geothermally heated by the spring running underneath the deck and each has a different temperature. One is lukewarm and the other two are hot, I felt like Goldielocks trying all three, the middle being just right.
Whether you want to watch the townsfolk and tourists go by, or look for birds and whales…there are few places more lovely on earth to soak the day away.
Pro-tips for natural hot springs:
+Wear hiking sandals (and socks to keep your toes cozy if you want to be really fashionable) which makes changing easier, without sacrificing sturdy footwear on your walk to the hot springs.
+Wear clothes that are easy to change in and out of and your bathing suit underneath them.
+Earmuffs or a beanie will keep your head warm while you soak in Iceland’s cold environment.
+Don’t forget to bring a towel!
+A plastic bag is great to throw your bathing suit in after changing.