The Hvammsvik Nature Resort & Hot Springs is in the middle of Mosfellsbaer in Southwest Iceland, situated almost an hour’s drive northeast of the capital city, Reykjavik. It’s a place to relax with thermal springs, views of the ocean, and many outdoor activities.
This property is an excellent place for day-trippers and overnight guests to relax and unwind during their time in Iceland. It has a lot to offer in one place. The name of the bay where the hot springs are located, Hvalfjörur, translates to “Whale Fjord” and is located in the southwestern corner of Iceland.
The steep drop from the surrounding mountains to the Atlantic Ocean is what makes this fjord so beautiful. This part of Iceland is only 45 minutes from Reykjavik, close to Esjan and Glymur, and easy to get to the Golden Circle. It gives you a real taste of Iceland’s unfiltered natural beauty.
History
According to the Icelandic settlement book Landnáma, the Vikings found Hvammsvk a century ago. The town also served as the Allied Naval Headquarters in Iceland during World War II, and nearly 40,000 troops were stationed in the region, and over 200 ships were docked in the fjord during the height of the conflict.
It’s not only the Vikings who were enamored with Hvammvk’s stunning scenery but several sequences from “Game of Thrones” were filmed on the site, showcasing the stunning scenery surrounding the fjord.
Mineral Thermal Pools
There are eight different hot springs available to visitors in Hvammsvik Hot Springs. Each one rests on a stretch of coastline where it meets the sea. The water is drawn from a reservoir around 1,400 meters/4,600 feet below the surface of the Earth and then mixed with ocean water.
Five of the pools are between 36 and 40 °C/97 and 104 ℉ and are roughly 1 m/3 ft in depth. The temperature and depth of the water in the other three natural pools, which are fed by geothermal water, are determined by the tides of the Atlantic Ocean, making each visit there a one-of-a-kind experience.
Other Amenities
The entry price covers the use of all the facilities. Travelers who go out from the hot springs will have the chance to see the breathtaking natural scenery that Iceland is famous for. In addition to the hot tubs, guests can relax in the steam room, use the outdoor and indoor facilities, use the free paddle boards, lounge on the black sand beach, and explore the nearby trails.
Many former visitors advocate participating in a native tradition by taking an outdoor shower, similar to the ones seen in native locker rooms.
Lodging
The estate of Hvammsvk also has four short-term rental villas scattered around the property’s black sand, beaches, meadows, and mountains for those who want to feel even more at one with nature. Homes range from two to three bedrooms and can sleep anywhere from four to nine guests.
All are uniquely decorated in Icelandic style and have contemporary conveniences like a private hot tub. The Hilltop House can accommodate six people in its three bedrooms and its own private hot spring.
Dining and Conveniences
Hvammsvk Hot Springs has a bar and restaurant, and only 10 minutes away is Kaffi Kjós, a tiny convenience store, and coffee shop. This business is only open from June to August and then only on weekends during the winter.
Alternatively, if you’re willing to travel for twenty minutes, you’ll find a convenience shop and gas station at Grundarhverfi- Kjalarnes. In addition, you may travel 30 minutes to reach one of the two supermarkets in Akranes or Mosfellsbaer.
Know Before You Go
Tickets must be reserved online with an admission time, and the attraction is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm (with the final entry at 8:30 pm). The minimum age for visitors is 12, and a parent or legal guardian must accompany anybody under 18.
Towels and swim shoes are for rent if you do not have yours, and swimwear is needed everywhere in the facilities. Since the location is on a natural beach, officials warn that it may become rocky and treacherous with the ever-moving tide.
The site also emphasizes the need to stay hydrated, as the hot springs are often warmer than the surrounding air, and the ocean is typically cooler.
Details
Address: Hvammsvík, 276 Mosfellsbær, Iceland
Phone: +354 510 5900
Season: Year-round
Website: hvammsvik.com