Laugarvatn Fontana
Imagine immersing yourself in warm geothermal pools while gazing at snow-capped mountains and sparkling lakes. Welcome to Laugarvatn Fontana, a sanctuary of relaxation and serenity in Iceland's scenic Golden Circle. Located in the quaint town of Laugarvatn, this geothermal spa allows visitors to enjoy an authentic Icelandic experience without the bustling crowds that often frequent the more well-known sites. Combining cultural richness with natural beauty, Laugarvatn Fontana is not just a place to unwind—it’s a location that tells a story, right from the minerals in its pools to the auroras that dance in the night sky above.
History & Details
Laugarvatn Fontana is steeped in historical significance, dating back to the early 20th century. It initially served as a popular gathering spot for locals who tapped into the area's geothermal activity to wash clothes and cook food. Eventually, it became known as a therapeutic destination, renowned for its healing mineral waters and steam baths. The architectural design of the current facility pays homage to Iceland’s natural elements, combining simplistic Nordic design with an emphasis on sustainability.
Over the years, the spa has drawn in numerous notable guests, including Icelandic artists and politicians looking for a respite from their busy lives. It also occasionally hosts wellness retreats, workshops, and yoga sessions, further promoting its reputation as a sanctuary for physical and mental well-being.
Amenities
The crown jewel of Laugarvatn Fontana is, undoubtedly, its collection of geothermal pools and hot springs. The pools are known for their varying temperatures, suitable for all comfort levels. They contain a rich blend of minerals like silica and sulfur, believed to have therapeutic properties that aid in skin rejuvenation and relaxation. In addition to the pools, the spa also offers saunas and steam baths, the latter of which are uniquely built over natural hot springs, allowing steam to flow directly into the room.
Laugarvatn Fontana also offers various services, including massages and skin treatments, using local ingredients like volcanic ash and Icelandic herbs. Visitors can also partake in the traditional Icelandic experience of 'rúgbrauð', bread baked underground using geothermal heat.
Vent Steam Rooms
Laugarvatn Fontana has a showstopper—its steam rooms are built directly over natural geothermal vents. Being inside one of these is the experience that transcends conventional wellness facilities, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.
The steam rooms at Laugarvatn Fontana are meticulously constructed to ensure that they channel the Earth's natural steam effectively and safely. These rooms allow the natural steam to rise through vents in the floor, filling the enclosed space with mineral-rich moisture.
The direct infusion of volcanic steam into these rooms enriches the air with minerals like sulfur, which are believed to have various health benefits. Breathing in this mineral-rich steam is thought to help clear respiratory issues, and the high humidity can benefit the skin. It's a different experience from a regular sauna—both in terms of the natural authenticity and the potential health benefits it offers.
Steam baths have a long-standing tradition in Icelandic culture, often serving as communal spots for relaxation and socializing. Laugarvatn Fontana has modernized this traditional concept, turning it into a sophisticated wellness experience while retaining its authentic Icelandic roots.
Tips for Visitors
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The steam rooms can be intensely warm and humid. If you're new to the experience, start with shorter durations and gradually increase your time.
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Be sure to hydrate well before and after the experience to compensate for the fluids lost through sweating.
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Check with the spa for health advisories, as steam baths may not suit everyone, especially those with specific medical conditions.
Lake Laugarvatn
One of the most invigorating experiences at Laugarvatn Fontana is the possibility of taking a dip in Lake Laugarvatn itself. Situated right next to the spa, the lake provides a perfect way to cool off from the heat of the steam rooms. Many visitors find heating up in the mineral-rich steam rooms and then running to the lake for a quick swim exceptionally refreshing. This alternating hot-and-cold experience is not only exhilarating but also believed to be beneficial for circulation and muscle relaxation. The lake's natural settings add a rustic charm to the whole experience, making it a memorable experience for your visit to Laugarvatn Fontana.
Rúgbrauð: The Icelandic Geothermal Bread
One of the unique experiences that set Laugarvatn Fontana apart from other geothermal spas in Iceland is its traditional Icelandic rúgbrauð or geothermal bread. This dark rye bread is baked in a fascinating, age-old manner that employs the area's natural geothermal heat. This culinary tradition provides a treat for visitors and acts as a living exhibit of Icelandic culture and the ingenious ways locals have utilized their natural surroundings.
The Bread-Baking Process
Making rúgbrauð at Laugarvatn Fontana is captivating and has become a natural attraction. The dough is prepared using simple ingredients - rye flour, water, sugar, and salt. After kneading, the dough is placed in a lidded pot and buried near a hot spring or a geothermal vent. The earth's natural heat does the rest, slow-baking the bread over a period of 24 hours. Visitors often have the chance to participate in this process, making it an interactive and educational experience.
Cultural Significance
Baking bread using geothermal heat goes back generations and is deeply rooted in Icelandic culture. In a land where wood was scarce and conventional ovens were a luxury, the ingenious method of harnessing geothermal energy for baking was more than just culinary experimentation—it was a testament to survival and adaptability. The rich, dense loaf that results from this process is a culinary symbol of Iceland, embodying the resilience and resourcefulness of its people.
Taste and Pairings
Rúgbrauð is quite unlike typical bread found in other countries. It has a dense texture and a mildly sweet flavour, often enjoyed with Icelandic butter, smoked fish, or cheese. The bread’s unique texture and flavour make it a perfect accompaniment to traditional Icelandic dishes, and it's commonly served as part of the local cuisine at Laugarvatn Fontana’s dining facilities.
By offering this unique rúgbrauð experience, Laugarvatn Fontana adds another layer to its rich cultural and natural offerings. Visitors don’t just leave with rejuvenated bodies and minds but also with a taste—quite literally—of Icelandic volcanic tradition and ingenuity.
Location & Nearby Attractions
Situated by Lake Laugarvatn, between the historic Þingvellir National Park and the geysers of Geysir and Strokkur, Laugarvatn Fontana is ideally positioned for those looking to explore Iceland's Golden Circle.
A Day-Trip Itinerary:
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Morning: Start at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its geological wonders and historical significance.
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Midday: Head to Laugarvatn Fontana for an afternoon of relaxation. Don't forget to try the underground-baked rúgbrauð for lunch.
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Evening: Wind down your day with a visit to the Geysir area to witness the spectacular eruptions of Strokkur, followed by a traditional Icelandic dinner.
7 Lesser-Known Facts
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Historical Baths: The original baths at Laugarvatn date back to the 1920s and were primarily wooden structures.
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Local Legend: A folklore suggests that the lake nearby possesses healing properties, a belief that has drawn pilgrimages in the past.
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Lake Laugarvatn: The lake itself is geothermally active, and locals have been known to cook eggs and dig pits for baking bread on its banks.
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Sustainable Energy: The facility aims to be eco-friendly, using geothermal energy for heating and operations.
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Winter Treat: The Northern Lights often appear over the spa, offering a magical experience to winter visitors.
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Community Bonding: Before becoming a commercial spa, it served as a community bathing area and gathering spot for locals, enhancing social bonds.
Transportation
Reaching Laugarvatn Fontana from Reykjavik, the capital city, is pretty straightforward.
Options:
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Private Car: Approximately a 1.5-hour drive, the journey offers scenic views. Parking facilities are available.
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Public Transport: Buses run regularly but may require a transfer. Expect the trip to take around 2-3 hours.
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Tour Packages: Many tour operators offer day trips, including transport and spa entry.
Costs:
- Private car rental can cost between $50-$100 per day, while bus fares are typically around $20-$30 for a one-way ticket.
GetYourGuide: A Cost-Effective Way
For those looking to get the most value from their visit to Laugarvatn Fontana, booking through GetYourGuide may be an excellent option. Often, tickets purchased via GetYourGuide are priced more affordably than those bought directly. Additionally, GetYourGuide offers comprehensive packages that include bread-making workshops and Golden Circle tours, providing a more rounded and enriching experience. These packages make it convenient for travellers to explore multiple attractions without the hassle of booking each separately. By booking through GetYourGuide using our affiliate link, you save money and support us through a small affiliate fee, which we get from GetYourGuide at no cost to you - enabling us to continue bringing you valuable travel insights.
Tips for Travelers:
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Check road conditions during winter, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.
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Pre-booking your spa entry is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
By merging natural splendours with cultural richness, Laugarvatn Fontana offers a uniquely Icelandic experience that promises relaxation and a journey through Iceland's geothermal history and natural beauty.
Pictures: Laugarvatn Fontana
