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One of the characteristics of being the Land of Fire and Ice is having natural hot springs all over the country. These occur because volcanic activity on the island heats the underground water supply. While you can enjoy some of our natural hot springs in their original form, others are used in our geothermal pools with all sorts of added amenities and facilities. One of these popular geothermal pools is the Vok Baths.
So, if you’ve planned an upcoming trip to Iceland and would like to lounge around in the warm waters of the Vok Baths, read on. We’ll tell you exactly what to expect from your visit and how to prepare for your trip.
What Makes the Vok Baths So Special?
The Vok Baths is one of the newer kids on the geothermal pool block, having opened in 2019. Here, you will find a number of almost hexagonal-shaped heated pools, two of which are level with the lake, so you can actually take a cold plunge in between your warm soaks. There is also a smaller cold pool that is filled by the lake itself.
The difference between the Vok Baths and many other hot springs and geothermal pools here on the island is that you won’t find any minerals such as silica or sulfur. This leaves the pools without the normal “eggy” smells of the hot springs, and the water is so clean and pure that you can actually drink it (in theory, please don’t do it).
As we also mentioned, our geothermal pools offer plenty of amenities and facilities, and the Vok Baths is no different. Here, you will find a sauna, a Tea Bar, a restaurant, and a swim-up bar. Add being spoilt with the breathtaking views while relaxing in the water, and you’ve got a winning combo.
Where are the Vok Baths in Iceland?
The Vok Baths can be found next to Lake Urridavatn in East Iceland, a mere 5-minute drive from Egilsstadir (the largest city in the eastern part of the island). Since they’re located so conveniently close to our popular Ring Road route, many opt to make the Vok Baths a relaxing stop along their road trip around Iceland.
How to Get to the Vok Baths in Iceland
Most visit the Vok Baths in one of two ways:
Via a Guided Tour
We have many tour operators and local guides who can take you to the Vok Baths, either as a destination on one of their existing tours (whether a dedicated day tour or as part of a multi-day holiday tour that includes multiple attractions here on the island) or on a customized private tour.
Via a Self-drive
We always recommend driving yourself since that will leave you in full control of your time and your trip itinerary. Driving to the Vok baths also couldn’t be simpler. Most, whether they want to visit the Vok Baths as a day outing or as a road trip stop, will depart from Egilsstadir.
From Egilsstadir, you simply need to get onto the Ring Road and head north. Cross Lake Lagarfljot before turning right onto Route 925. Hereafter you will see Urridavatn on your left, and then the Vok Baths.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Vok Baths?
The Vok Baths are open all year round, and when you’d like to visit will solely depend on your personal preferences. When deciding on when to visit the Vok Baths, take the following into consideration:
- Most prefer to have a swim and a soak during our summertime when the weather is nice and mild.
- Take note of the above-mentioned “most”. Summertime in Iceland is considered our peak season, and you will also need to deal with our peak season crowds, too, during this time.
- Many, especially our locals, will tell you that the best time to visit our hot springs is during the colder months of the year. The contrast between the hot water and the cold air can be incredibly rejuvenating.
- The colder months of the year are considered our “down” season here in Iceland, and operating hours may not be the same as during peak season, meaning that the Baths may be open for fewer days or hours.
Operating Hours of the Vok Baths
Operating hours vary between seasons and special holidays. During the summer, from 15 June to 15 September, the Vok Baths are open from 10:00 to 23:00 every day. During our “down” season, from 16 September to 14 June, the Vok Baths are open from 12:00 to 22:00 every day.
Please also note that the operating hours for the baths and other amenities, such as the restaurant, also differ. On most public holidays throughout the year, operating hours are also fewer, with the baths open from 12:00 to 22:00. But during our festive season operating hours are even fewer, with the baths only open from 10:00 to 16:00 every day.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Vok Baths?
There are options to purchase a year or a two-year pass, but it won’t make sense as a visitor to the island unless you’re planning multiple trips throughout the year(s). Daily admission prices include a Tisane (a drink like tea), lockers, floaties for the kids, and the right to use the facilities. It does not, however, include any other food or drinks at the restaurant or bars. Daily admission costs are as follows:
- Adults = 6990 ISK (roughly $51)
- Children aged between 6 and 16 = 3390 ISK (approximately $25)
- Children aged between 0 and 5 = No cost
- Pensioners, the disabled, and students WITH a valid student card as proof! = 4990 ISK (roughly $36)
Helpful Tips for Visiting the Vok Baths
If this is your first time visiting geothermal pools in Iceland, the following will be helpful information:
- It is considered a must to take a shower (completely) naked before entering the hot springs in Iceland. This is not just for personal hygiene reasons but also to ensure that the pools don’t end up with all sorts of things like makeup and chemicals from hair products.
- You cannot enter the hot springs naked; you must wear appropriate swimwear.
- Wear flip-flops when walking around the pools. Even at the geothermal pools, things can get pretty muddy when people trek dirt into the wetness surrounding the pools.
- Be careful where you walk. Wherever things get wet around a pool, things get slippery.
- The Vok Baths are not actual baths like the Roman Baths. These are not an opportunity to take care of your personal hygiene, and you’ll quickly be asked to leave the moment you whip out your soap.
Unwind and Rejuvenate: the Vok Baths in Iceland Awaits
The Vok Baths in Iceland offer a serene haven where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate amidst breathtaking natural beauty. If you want to further immerse yourself in the Icelandic landscape and take advantage of the Vok Bath’s location next to the Ring Road, we recommend that you rent a campervan in Iceland, and do a road trip around the island.
This way, you’ll have both your accommodation and transport sorted, and you’ll be able to go camping in comfort at various campsites across the country. You’ll also be able to do this at special rates if you take advantage of our Camping Card. And as a stop en route your road trip around the island, a sense of peace and renewal awaits you at this remarkable destination we call the Vok Baths.
