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Hellulaug is one of those hot springs in Iceland that doesn't try to impress you. No signs, no fences, no crowds. Just a quiet hot spring by the sea doing its own thing. It’s not flashy, but that’s exactly the point. If you’re into raw and simple Iceland, Hellulaug delivers.
It’s the kind of spot that feels made for traveling with a campervan Rental in Iceland. No schedules, no tours, just pull up, hop out, and soak. You probably wouldn’t stumble on it unless someone told you. And now someone has. So if you're wondering what makes it worth the detour, stick around. You’ll want the full picture.
What Is Hellulaug Hot Spring Anyway?
Hellulaug is a hidden geothermal pool in Iceland tucked into the coastline. It’s not the kind of place you’ll find on a billboard. No ticket booth, no paved walkway either. In simple terms, it’s just a small, sea-facing pool.
The Hellulaug spring measures about 13 by 10 feet (roughly 4 by 3 meters), and it’s only 20 to 30 inches deep (around 50 to 70 centimeters). The Vatnavinir Friends of Water Project, which won the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture in 2011, has plans to improve the path without ruining the vibe.
The goal? Make it easier to reach without disturbing the land around it.
Why It’s Unlike the Others
One shallow, rock-lined pool. That’s it. Just hot water bubbling beside the sea, with rough cliffs in the back and waves out front. It’s quiet, rugged, and simple. You’ll fit maybe four or five people in there before it starts feeling crowded.
Hellulaug is part of the Vatnsfjörður Nature Reserve, where environmental preservation actually means something. You soak with the ocean in front of you and cliffs behind you, often with Arctic terns flying past like they’re in on the secret too.
Compared to the Instagram-packed Blue Lagoon or the long lines of people at Reykjadalur, Hellulaug in Iceland is the no-frills alternative.
Blue Lagoon vs Hellulaug
Look, there is no comparison between the Blue Lagoon and Hellulaug. Why, you might ask? Simply because the Blue Lagoon is so commercial and always busy. The reason people go to Hellulaug is because they want to soak in a hot spring without rubbing elbows with a stranger.
What You'll Actually Find There
One shallow, rock-lined pool. That’s it. Just hot water bubbling beside the sea, with rough cliffs in the back and waves out front. It’s quiet, rugged, and simple. You’ll fit maybe four or five people in there before it starts feeling crowded.
How to Get to Hellulaug (Route, Parking & Access)
Hellulaug sits quietly on the southern edge of Iceland’s Westfjords, right outside the tiny village of Flókalundur. You won’t need off-road skills or GPS tricks to find it. The hot spring is just off Route 60, the main road cutting through the region, and only a few minutes from the Brjánslækur ferry terminal.
Coming from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula? You’ll likely pass through the junction where Route 60 meets Route 62. From there, Hellulaug is barely a detour. It’s wedged between a grassy hill and the sea, and even though it’s easy to access, it’s surprisingly well hidden. You could be parked less than 20 feet (around 6 meters) away and still miss it.
Driving From Reykjavík and Tackling the Westfjords Roads
The Hellulaug natural hot spring in Iceland isn't around the corner. You're in for a solid 4 to 5-hour drive from Reykjavík, depending on how fast you drive and how often you stop to stretch, snack, or stare at waterfalls. The route’s simple enough. Head north on Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road) out of the city. After passing Bifröst, take a left onto Route 60.
That’s when things get interesting on this campervan stop in Iceland. Route 60 takes you deep into the Westfjords. Expect about 325 kilometers (roughly 200 miles) of twists, turns, and the occasional gravel patch that’ll shake your coffee cup loose. It’s scenic, sure. But don’t expect smooth highways and perfect road shoulders.
As you close in on Flókalundur, start paying attention. The turnoff to Hellulaug has a habit of sneaking up on people. No big Hellulaug directional signs. No giant parking lot. If you miss it, join the club. Just swing around and try again.
Which Campervan Can Handle the Trip?
You don’t need a monster truck to reach this remote hot spring, but not everything is cut out for the drive. In summer, a two-wheel-drive campervan can handle Route 60 in Iceland. Most of it’s paved or packed gravel, and if the weather holds, you’re good.
Outside of summer, things change fast. Roads turn slick. Gravel loosens. One wrong turn or late start, and you’re stuck driving tired through bad conditions. That’s when a 4x4 matters. More grip. More control. Less stress.
Get gravel protection as an extra. Make sure there’s a full-size spare. A flat out here isn’t just annoying. It can ruin your day.
Which Campervans We Recommend for Hellulaug
Not every campervan is built for the Westfjords. Here are three popular models for different types of travelers heading toward Hellulaug
For Hardcore Explorers: Suzuki Jimny 4x4 Roof Tent (Manual)
It’s small, stubborn, and doesn’t care if the road’s perfect or not. The Suzuki Jimny is made for travelers who need space from everything. Cities, crowds, even cell service. With 19 cm (7.5 inches) of ground clearance and true 4x4 power, it won’t blink at an F-road. The rooftop tent turns any remote patch of land into a place to crash.
For Budget-Friendly Comfort: Campervan Play (Manual)
Keeping it simple? This Renault Kangoo / VW Caddy setup is perfect for couples who want to cruise the Ring Road, stop wherever they want, and save cash while doing it. It sleeps two, has all the basics like heating, kitchenware, and a fridge, and is easy to handle even for campervan newbies. Just avoid the rough backroads in bad weather. This one likes to stick to paved roads.
For Small Groups and Wild Roads: Campervan 4x4 Hilux (Automatic)
Traveling with a few friends or the whole crew? The 4x4 Hilux gives you space to breathe and the muscle to handle whatever the Westfjords throw at you. It seats four, sleeps four, and powers through gravel, rain, and steep climbs without slowing down. Inside, you’ve got heat, a fridge, a double stove, and a pop-up roof. Everything you need to stay warm, fed, and rested between stops like Hellulaug.
Thinking about renting a campervan in Iceland? Go on, click the link. It’s that simple. Just pick the one that won’t make you miserable on a gravel road.
When to Go and What to Pack
If you’re serious about going to this hidden geothermal pool in Iceland, then take this advice before heading out:
Best Times to Visit
Hellulaug Hot Spring is open all year, which is great news if you’re the kind of traveler who doesn’t wait around for perfect weather. Hellulaug in Summer, from June to August, is by far the best time to visit. Roads are clear, days feel endless, and the scenery goes full green.
It’s also when most people show up, but even then, Hellulaug stays calmer than the big-name spots. Spring and autumn hit that sweet spot with fewer cars, fewer people, and just enough warmth to make getting out of your camper less painful.
Hellulaug in Winter? It’s a gamble. But if you catch it right, soaking in hellulaug with snow on the ground and northern lights overhead feels unreal. Just know the roads can turn icy fast, and closures are common, especially in the Westfjords.
What To Pack For Iceland on This Trip
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel- You’ll want to dry off fast in the chilly air. Cotton towels stay wet and make you cold. Don’t bring one.
- Warm layers - Even in summer, Iceland can flip the switch. Toss in a hat, gloves, and dry clothes so you’re not shivering post-soak.
- Flip-flops or water shoes - The walk to the spring is short but rocky and cold. Your feet will be the utmost grateful.
- Snacks and a hot drink - There’s no food at Hellulaug. Pack a thermos of coffee or tea and something to munch on after your dip.
- Trash bags - No bins, no excuses. Whatever you bring in, take it out. Let’s keep Hellulaug looking wild, not trashed.
- Headlamp or flashlight - If you’re visiting at night or in winter, bring light. That walk back to your camper is no joke in the dark.
- First aid kit and emergency supplies - Remote area. Rough roads. Always better to have basics like bandages and backup snacks.
- Waterproof jacket and rain gear - The weather changes fast. One minute it’s calm, the next you’re getting slapped with sideways rain.
- Camera - Because if you don’t take at least one photo, did it even happen?
The On-Site Experience
Here’s the real deal about what you can expect from this amazing place:
What It’s Like to Soak at Hellulaug
You park, walk down a short hill, and there’s a hot pool by the ocean. You’ll find a shallow, rocky tub with steam rising off it and the Atlantic in your face.
During your hot spring experience, you’ll sit in the heat while the wind slaps your ears. Birds squawk. Waves crash. That’s it. No music, no lights, no fake atmosphere. Just real Iceland. Simple, raw, and better than you expected.
Water Temperature and Conditions
The Hellulaug temperature stays around 38°C (100°F) all year. Doesn’t matter if it’s summer or snowing sideways. The heat stays consistent. It’s warm enough to relax, not hot enough to cook you.
The pool’s cleaned often enough to stay decent. It meets Icelandic standards, so you’re not soaking in grime. The bottom is natural rock and can get slippery, so don’t charge in like a hero.
It’s shallow, not for swimming. You sit, you soak, you stare at the view. The low stone wall blocks some of the wind, but you’ll still feel it. That’s part of the deal.
What You Should Know Before You Park
Before you pull in, here’s what to expect (and what’s missing).
Parking, Fees, and What’s Missing
Parking at Hellulaug is simple. There’s a small gravel lot right off Route 60, about 100 meters (roughly 330 feet) from the pool. It’s free, unmarked, and usually fine unless you show up mid-summer when every tourist with a rental van has the same idea. If that happens, wait a few minutes. Someone’s always leaving.
There’s no entrance fee. No ticket, no gate, no guy in a reflector vest. Just a small donation box near the pool. Toss in a few coins if you can, since it helps keep the place from turning into a dump.
As for what’s missing? Pretty much everything. No café, no shops, no Wi-Fi, no one selling overpriced towels. That’s the whole point. Bring what you need. No one’s got your back here but you.
Facilities and Amenities (or Lack Thereof)
Hellulaug keeps it raw, which is great until you need to do a number one or number two.
- No changing rooms. You’ll be swapping clothes in your camper or doing the towel shuffle by the side of the pool. Everyone’s in the same boat.
- No showers. No toilets. The nearest bathroom is up the road at Hótel Flókalundur, which is a 10-minute walk. Plan ahead.
- No lockers. Keep your stuff close or leave it locked in the car.
- No lifeguards. No staff. You’re on your own. Don’t do anything stupid.
Nearby Attractions You Shouldn't Miss
Although this hot spring sits in a rural part of our country, there are lots of nearby attractions you should definitely include on your trip. Here are some things to do near Hellulaug that we can personally vouch for:
Krosslaug – The Bonus Hot Spring
If Hellulaug left you wanting more then Krosslaug is 100% worth adding to your Westfjords itinerary. It’s tucked near Birkimelur in the southern Westfjords and has two pools. One natural and one old-school concrete job from 1948.
The natural one is lined with stones and sits right by the sea. The bigger one’s a 4 x 13 meter (13 x 43 foot) pool, once used for swimming lessons and now fully revived. Both sit at around 37°C (100°F), so you’re in for a great time either way. Locals say Vikings once used the natural pool for baptisms, which adds some grit to the place.
You’ll find basic changing rooms, a shower, and a small entry fee of about $10. It’s rarely busy, which makes it one of the Westfjords’ easiest wins.
Dynjandi – The Westfjords’ Show-Off Waterfall
You’ll hear it before you see it. Dynjandi drops 100 meters (328 feet) in a massive curtain of water that looks like a bridal veil but sounds like a freight train. It’s not just one waterfall, either. It’s a whole staircase of seven, each one stacking up below the main cascade.
The hike up is short but awesome, and every step gives you something to look at. Fjords in the distance, crashing water next to you, and yeah, your socks might get a little wet. Stay on the path. The area’s protected, and trampling moss isn’t part of the Icelandic experience.
Rauðisandur beach and Látrabjarg cliffs
Most beaches in Iceland are black, but this one isn’t. Raudisandur runs for 10 kilometers (around 6 miles), covered in soft shades of red, gold, and pink. It’s not volcanic, and the sand comes from crushed shells, and the colors shift with the weather. Some days it glows. Other days, it just looks strange. Either way, it’s worth adding this to your campervan route.
The road in is gravel and slow, but when you get there, it’s dead quiet. Just sand, sea, and maybe a few birds doing their thing. No shops. No noise. Just space to breathe. Keep going west and you’ll hit Látrabjarg Cliffs. This is actually the best puffin-spotting location in Europe during summer. Just don’t get too close to the edge. It’s a long way down.
Smart Campervan Tips for the Area
Coming prepared and knowing a few basics never hurt anyone. Please don’t skip this section. Here are some real Westfjords travel tips to keep in mind when you go with a campervan:
Recommended Gear and Supplies
- Sleeping bag and warm pajamas - Nights get cold. If your camper’s heater cuts out, you’ll be glad you packed for it.
- Backpack for day trips - You’ll need something to carry snacks, layers, and whatever else ends up in your hands.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses - Icelandic sun might sound like a joke, but glare from snow and water is no joke at all.
- Binoculars - Whale. Puffin. Weird bird you can’t identify. You’ll want a closer look.
- Trash bags - No bins in the wild. Don’t leave a mess. Pack out what you pack in.
- Duffel bag or soft luggage - Hard suitcases eat up space. Soft bags fit better and make less noise on gravel roads.
Safety Tips for Winter Visits
- Winter tires and a working heater - If you rent a campervan through us, winter tires come standard. You still need to check that your heating system works.
- Check conditions daily - Use vedur.is for weather, umferdin.is for road conditions, and the SafeTravel app for alerts.
- Drive like your brakes are made of butter - Black ice and whiteouts are common. Go slow, leave space, and don’t yank the wheel around.
- Don’t ignore road closures - That ‘closed’ sign isn’t a suggestion. Locals follow it. You should, too.
- Refuel when you’re half full - You don’t want to run out of gas in the middle of nowhere. Fill up when you can.
- Park into the wind- Cuts down noise and stops the wind from ripping your door off its hinges.
- Be ready to wait things out - Charge your phone. Know the emergency number (112). If things get ugly, stay put.
- Skip the hero itinerary - If the weather’s bad, change your plans. No photo is worth ending up in a ditch.
Etiquette and Cultural Considerations
- Use actual campsites - Wild camping rules are strict. If you’re in a campervan, stay in legal spots unless you’ve got landowner permission.
- Leave no trace - Take your rubbish with you. Use proper disposal sites for wastewater. Don’t dump in the wild.
- Respect quiet hours - Most campsites have set times for silence. Don’t be the one blasting music at midnight.
- Don’t stomp on fragile land - Stick to trails. Don’t pick wildflowers. Don’t carve your name into anything.
- Hold your camper doors - Icelandic wind is next-level. People have lost doors. No, seriously.
- Watch out for sheep - They’ll wander into the road like they own it. Slow down, especially in spring and summer.
- Support locals - Shop at local stores, follow posted signs, and don’t treat people like part of the scenery.
FAQs About Visiting Hellulaug
Can I park my campervan overnight at Hellulaug?
Nope, there is no campervan parking at Hellulaug. The parking area is just for short visits. If you want to camp, head to a nearby campsite like Hótel Flókalundur. Wild camping in a van is a no-go unless you’ve got permission.
How long should I spend at Hellulaug?
Most people stay 30 to 60 minutes. Long enough for a soak, some silence, and a snack before hitting the road again.
Is the pool safe for kids?
It’s shallow and calm, but there are no lifeguards, no barriers, and slippery rocks. If you bring kids, watch them like a hawk.
Does Hellulaug ever close?
No official hours. It’s open year-round, 24/7. But if the roads are closed due to weather, you’re not getting there anyway.
What’s the best time of day to visit?
Early morning or late evening, if you want it yourself. Midday in summer might bring a few other vans, but it’s rarely packed.
