Secret Lagoon and Fludir

The Secret Lagoon, known locally as Gamla Laugin, is an old geothermal pool at Hvammsvegur 1 in the village of Fludir, about 105 km east of Reykjavik. The drive takes roughly 1 hour 40 minutes each way, and the lagoon works well as the final stop on a Golden Circle day because Fludir lies a short distance from Gullfoss and Geysir. Built in 1891 and one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, it was restored in the 2000s and sits in a small steaming area with natural edges rather than a modern spa complex. The water stays at roughly 38 to 40 degrees Celsius and is fed by a nearby hot spring. Entry costs about ISK 4,200 per person, much less than larger lagoons. A short boardwalk loop leads past the Litli Geysir, a small geyser that erupts every few minutes to a modest height and is a pleasant photo stop. Facilities include changing rooms, showers and a small cafe at the entrance, while Fludir village has additional restaurants and a brewery pub with a bar. Visitors can arrive by rental car, which allows flexible timing, or on a Golden Circle tour that includes the lagoon, typically costing ISK 15,000 to 20,000 with entry included. A natural plan is to visit Thingvellir in the morning, see Geysir and Gullfoss around midday, and soak at the lagoon in the late afternoon before driving back. The pool is open all year, and winter soaking in cold air is popular, with a chance of northern lights on clear evenings. Summer evenings stay light and the surrounding fields are green. The lagoon is relatively quiet compared with larger spas, though weekends and summer afternoons can be busy. Showering before entering is required, and towels can be rented on site.