Westfjords natural pools

The Westfjords are Iceland's most remote and least visited region, a maze of long fjords and towering cliffs where the roads are quiet and the pools are blissfully uncrowded. For anyone who loves warm water with a sense of solitude, this is the promised land. Here are four natural pools worth the journey.

Reykjafjardarlaug

In Arnarfjörður sits Reykjafjardarlaug, a warm concrete pool with a wilder, hotter natural pot just above it. It is a classic Westfjords stop, simple and free, with the fjord stretching out below. The contrast between the two pools lets you find exactly the warmth you want.

Hellulaug

Near Flókalundur in Vatnsfjörður, Hellulaug is a small natural pool set into the rocks right beside the sea. There are no facilities and no fee, just warm water and a view across the fjord, with the cool ocean a few steps away for a brisk dip.

Krossneslaug

Far up the Strandir coast at Norðurfjörður, Krossneslaug is a pool set on a wild beach at the literal edge of the Arctic, waves breaking just beyond the wall. Reaching it is part of the reward, and few soaks anywhere feel as remote or as memorable.

Pollurinn

Above the village of Tálknafjörður, Pollurinn is a trio of warm natural pots looking out over the fjord, a free and much loved local spot. It is the perfect end to a day of driving the southern Westfjords.

In the Westfjords the pools are simple, free, and almost always yours alone, that is the whole point.

Love a wild soak? Read wild hot springs you hike to, or browse the best hot springs in Iceland.