Laugavallalaug

Laugavallalaug hot pot, or hot waterfall, is a hidden gem in the Eastern Highlands of Iceland - a land of contrasts where fire meets ice and nature’s drama unfolds. It is a natural hot spring located in the Laugarvalladalur Valley, about 62 miles (100 kilometres) from Egilsstadir. A nearby geothermal field feeds the spring with a temperature of around 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).

The Laugavallalaug hot spring is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is a great place to relax and soak in the warm water, especially after hiking or exploring the Highlands. 

But there is a lot more to know about this secluded hot spring!

Details

The Laugavallalaug hot spring is a simple but beautiful place.  The main feature differentiating it is the small waterfall cascading into the pool, providing a natural hot shower.

Laugavellir Valley is one of the valleys called Brú Valleys (Brúardalir). It stands out from its barren environment because of its luxuriant vegetation, and the valley is one of the main low-geothermal areas in East Iceland. The geothermal heat in the valley is connected to seismic activity on the east side of the Kverkfjöll volcanic system, where water runs northeast along volcanic fissures, creating a low-temperature system that reaches the surface.

There are quite a few thermal and hot springs at the top of Jökuldalur, from Brú Farm and all the way to Brú Glacier. The water's temperature is relatively low, usually less than 40°C, but in Laugavellir Valley, the record temperature has been 70°C. A large sinter slab covers the area and shows that water from a deeper part of the recirculating system has reached the surface, flowing through rifts created by seismic activity.

Hot Spring and Hot Waterfall

There are many hot springs around Lugavellir. The largest one is a hot stream that runs north of the hut in a shallow ditch across sloping heathland and falls off a grassy ledge on a rock into a bowl, which is part natural and part man-made. This waterfall is one of the valley's main attractions, as it is a unique experience to bathe in natural, hot water, surrounded by highland vegetation, far into the Icelandic wilderness. The water's temperature may vary, and after a dry spell, it can be risky to enter without checking it first.

A Sustainable Tourist Attraction

Laugavellir is vulnerable to intrusion for a few reasons. Vegetation in the area, including the delicate geothermal vegetation, struggles to survive not only because of bad weather for a large part of the year but also because of visitors. 

This place was known only to locals in the past, but in recent years, tourist traffic has significantly increased, and people want to experience this wonder. However, the area was not equipped for this kind of traffic. 

Car paths were rough and often impassable, and the valley floor soon turned to mud. Landowners have done what they can to protect nature at Laugavellir and to honour its history.

In 2019, systematic development started at Laugavellir to accommodate this growing tourist traffic. Cars can no longer cross the river and drive up to the old farm - a car park was built on the east side, and a footbridge was installed. Renovations started on the old round-up hut, and simple changing facilities were also installed by the hot stream for those who wished to bathe.

It is a pleasure to see this increase in visitors to Laugavellir Valley so that more people get to experience this oasis in the wild. At the same time, those who visit the valley must do their best to keep the place in its original state as a unique diamond in the Icelandic highlands. Guests are, therefore, asked to respect nature and keep the place clean while visiting.

While not as frequented as other tourist spots, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who have discovered it.

Amenities

Laugavallalaug is a bare-bones. It is still mainly off the commercial tourism radar, amenities near Laugavallalaug Waterfall are minimal. The closest you'll find to services is at Egilsstaðir, the largest town in eastern Iceland, several hours away by road. Here, you can stock up on essentials like food, water, and gas. Near the waterfall, there are no restaurants, shops, or restrooms. Visitors should come prepared with all necessities for a full-day trip, including adequate clothing, food, and first aid supplies. You should also pack out any trash to maintain the pristine environment.

Lesser-Known Facts

1. Eco-Friendly Attraction: Due to its secluded nature, visitors are responsible for keeping it clean. The 'leave no trace' principle is strongly encouraged.

2. The Name: "Laugavallalaug" name may have been derived from the Old Norse words "laug" (meaning "bath") and "valla" (meaning "field").

Getting there

Reaching Laugavallalaug from Reykjavik requires some planning.

1. Private Car: The easiest but most expensive way is by private car. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended due to rough terrain. The journey can take about 11 hours one way. 

   From F910 en route to Askja, pass over the large dam. Shortly thereafter, the paved road transitions into gravel. Keep going for an additional 5 kilometres until you encounter an insignificant intersection.

   Once you reach the intersection, opt for the left-hand road. Be prepared for rough terrain, as this section is strewn with large rocks. Continue along this track for about 2.5 kilometres until you come upon a shallow stream that must be crossed on foot. Once you've crossed the stream, the hot pot area will soon become visible on your right-hand side.

Whether you are an adventure seeker looking to unwind in nature's lap, Laugavallalaug Hot Spring is a hidden gem worth exploring. With its secluded setting, rich yet understated history, and raw, untouched beauty, this hot spring is a quintessential Icelandic experience waiting to be discovered.