Reykhólar, Iceland: Amazing Geothermal Wonders, Arctic Fishing & Untouched Landscapes (2025)
While 2 million tourists annually crowd the Golden Circle, fewer than 8,000 discover Reykhólar’s secret: a geothermal pool heated to 38°C (100°F) that’s completely free, surrounded by steaming earth where you can bake rye bread underground. Here, you’ll hear Icelandic spoken in grocery stores rather than tourist chatter, and find fishing boats returning with cod caught just hours earlier in some of the world’s richest waters. This is West Iceland as it existed before tourism transformed the south.
Why Reykhólar, Iceland Stands Out
Vast rocky terrain with steaming colorful hills in Icelandic highlands, Reykhólar, Iceland
- Historic Architecture: Reykhólar’s 1928 Norwegian-style wooden church stands as one of Iceland’s most photographed rural churches, built during the country’s transition from turf houses to modern construction.
- Cultural Scene: The annual Fisherman’s Day in early August transforms the harbor with fresh seafood feasts, traditional boat races, and storytelling sessions with third-generation fishermen.
- Local Specialties: Geothermally-baked rye bread (hverabrauð) served warm with Icelandic butter and fresh-caught langoustines from Breiðafjörður Bay.
Pro Tip: Visit between late May and early July for 24-hour daylight that lets you explore at any hour, or come in September when the northern lights begin appearing but summer crowds have completely vanished. Locals know the geothermal pool is warmest around 8 PM after a full day of sun absorption.
Map of Reykhólar, Iceland
Use these interactive maps to explore Reykhólar, Iceland and plan your route:
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Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is 180km away; Icelandair and Play Airlines serve major European and North American cities. From KEF, take the Strætó bus to Borgarnes (3 hours, $45) then transfer to Reykhólar. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: Iceland has no railway system; your best overland option is the bus network connecting Reykjavík to the Westfjords with a stop in Reykhólar.
- By Car: Route 60 connects Reykhólar to the Ring Road; the 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavík offers stunning coastal views. Free parking throughout town. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: Reykhólar is completely walkable (15 minutes end to end); the Strætó bus system connects to nearby towns but runs infrequently (2-3 times daily).
Best Time to Visit
Reykhólar’s appeal shifts dramatically by season – summer offers endless daylight for exploration while winter provides northern lights viewing without light pollution from larger towns.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 8-14°C, 18-24 hours daylight, minimal rain | Midnight sun photography, puffin watching, hiking dry trails, festival season |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | -2 to 3°C, 4-5 hours daylight, frequent snow | Northern lights from geothermal pool, cozy cafes, empty landscapes, lowest prices |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | 3-10°C, 10-16 hours daylight, changeable conditions | Best value accommodations, migrating bird watching, geothermal pools still warm |
Budgeting for Reykhólar, Iceland
A stunning view of Hraunfossar Waterfalls flowing into turquoise water in w…, Reykhólar, Iceland
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $80-120/night (guesthouse) | $150-220/night (hotel) | $300+/night (private cabin) |
| Meals | $25-40/day (grocery + bakery) | $60-90/day (café lunches + dinner) | $120+/day (seafood feasts) |
| Transport | $15/day (walking + occasional bus) | $50/day (rental car split) | $100/day (private tours) |
| Activities | $0-20/day (hiking + free pool) | $40-70/day (boat tours + museums) | $100+/day (private guides) |
| Daily Total | $120-180 | $300-430 | $620+ |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reykhólar Geothermal Pool | Natural outdoor pool maintained at perfect bathing temperature by volcanic activity | 24/7, year-round | Free |
| Sea Monster Museum | Fascinating collection of Icelandic folklore about mythical creatures of Breiðafjörður Bay | 10 AM-6 PM daily | $12 adults |
| Breiðafjörður Boat Tour | 3-hour wildlife cruise to see puffins, seals, and sometimes whales in pristine fjord | 9 AM & 2 PM May-Sep | $75 per person |
| Geothermal Bakery Experience | Learn to bake traditional rye bread using natural steam vents in the earth | 11 AM daily by appointment | $25 including meal |
3-Day Itinerary: Reykhólar, Iceland’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: Geothermal Wonders & Harbor Life
- Morning: Start at 7:30 AM with a soak in the geothermal pool while the steam rises against the morning light – you’ll likely have it completely to yourself. Follow with breakfast at Gamla Búðin café for skyr with local berries ($15).
- Afternoon: Join the 12 PM Breiðafjörður boat tour ($75) to spot puffin colonies and seals, then lunch at Sjávarpakkhúsið restaurant for their famous langoustine soup ($28).
- Evening: 6 PM geothermal bakery demonstration ($25) includes dinner of freshly baked bread with smoked trout, followed by a sunset walk along the black sand beach.
Day 2: History & Hiking
- Morning: 8 AM visit to the Sea Monster Museum ($12) before crowds arrive, then hike the coastal trail to the 19th-century fishing outpost at Gufuskálar – watch for Arctic foxes along the path.
- Afternoon: Picnic lunch from Krónan grocery store ($18) at the historic Gufuskálar radio masts, then explore the 1928 wooden church and surrounding historic buildings.
- Evening: 7 PM dinner at Hótel Reykhólar’s restaurant ($45-60) for pan-seared cod caught that morning, followed by stargazing from the geothermal pool if weather permits.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion & Departure
- Morning: 8 AM drive to nearby Búðardalur ($15 fuel) to visit Eiríksstaðir, the reconstructed homestead of Erik the Red, father of Leif Erikson ($18 entry).
- Afternoon: Return to Reykhólar for a final lunch at Gamla Búðin café ($25) featuring their geothermally-baked rye bread ice cream, then browse local artisan crafts at the community center.
- Evening: One last soak in the geothermal pool before departure, ideally around 6 PM when the water reaches its daily peak temperature and the evening light creates spectacular photo conditions.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: Icelandic is preferred; learn “takk” (thank you), “bless” (goodbye), and “geðheill” (cheers) – locals appreciate the effort even if they switch to English.
- Customs: Remove shoes when entering homes; punctuality is valued; avoid loud conversations in public spaces like the geothermal pool.
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated for exceptional service (5-10%); round up taxi fares; service charges are included in all prices.
- Dress Code: Practical outdoor clothing dominates; bring swimwear for spontaneous geothermal pool visits; no formal wear needed anywhere.
- Business Hours: Stores 10 AM-6 PM weekdays, 11 AM-4 PM Saturdays, closed Sundays; restaurants serve dinner 6-9 PM; gas stations operate 24/7.
Where to Eat: Reykhólar, Iceland’s Best Bites
Reykhólar’s dining scene revolves around hyper-local ingredients – fish caught hours before serving, lamb from nearby farms, and vegetables grown in geothermally-heated greenhouses. Don’t expect fancy presentation, but rather honest, flavorful preparations that highlight Iceland’s pure ingredients.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Geothermally-baked Rye Bread (Hverabrauð): Dense, sweet bread slow-cooked in the ground near hot springs; best tried warm with butter at Gamla Búðin café.
- Breiðafjörður Langoustines: Sweet, tender lobster-like crustaceans served grilled or in rich bisque at Sjávarpakkhúsið restaurant.
- Plokkfiskur: Traditional fish stew made with cod, potatoes, and béchamel sauce; the version at Hótel Reykhólar uses a 70-year-old family recipe.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Gamla Búðin (Harbor Road) | Fresh bakery items and light lunches | $15-25 |
| Mid-range | Sjávarpakkhúsið (Harbor Front) | Daily catch seafood and langoustine dishes | $30-50 |
| Fine dining | Hótel Reykhólar Restaurant | Modern Icelandic cuisine with local ingredients | $45-70 |
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses to comfortable hotels, all within walking distance of the geothermal pool and harbor. Book several months ahead for summer visits. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- Harbor Area: Walking distance to boat tours and restaurants, occasional fishing boat noise in early mornings, ideal for active travelers.
- Church District: Central location near geothermal pool, quiet residential streets, best for families and those wanting easy access to main attractions.
- Outskirts: More privacy and stunning views, requires car transportation, perfect for travelers seeking solitude and nature immersion.
Breathtaking view of Iceland’s colorful geothermal landscapes and snowy mou…, Reykhólar, Iceland
FAQs: Your Reykhólar, Iceland Questions Answered
1. Is Reykhólar, Iceland safe at night?
Extremely safe – the crime rate is virtually zero. The main considerations are weather-related: bring a headlamp in winter when darkness falls by 4 PM, and watch for icy paths near the geothermal pool in colder months.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
Icelandic króna (ISK) is the official currency, but credit/debit cards are accepted everywhere including the smallest cafes. You won’t need cash except possibly for the honor-system farm stands outside town. Contactless payments are standard.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center?
From Keflavík Airport, take the Flybus to BSÍ bus terminal in Reykjavík ($25, 45 minutes), then transfer to the Strætó bus to Reykhólar ($45, 3 hours). Renting a car is more convenient for exploring the region. Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
Not necessary – English proficiency among Icelanders is among the highest globally. Locals appreciate visitors learning basic greetings like “takk fyrir” (thank you), but you’ll have no communication issues anywhere in Reykhólar.
5. What’s the appropriate dress code?
Practical outdoor clothing in layers – waterproof jacket, warm mid-layer, sturdy shoes. Always carry swimwear for spontaneous geothermal pool visits. No formal attire needed, even at nicer restaurants. The key is being prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Final Thoughts: Reykhólar, Iceland Awaits
Reykhólar offers what much of Iceland has lost: authentic connection to landscape and tradition without commercial filters. Here, you’ll experience geothermal wonders not as attractions but as integrated parts of daily life, from baking bread to warming swims. The real magic lies in the pace – long conversations with fishermen, spontaneous northern lights appearances, and the profound quiet of a landscape largely untouched by mass tourism. Savvy travelers know to visit before the secret gets out, but even when more visitors discover Reykhólar, its essential character will endure. Your single best decision? Planning that first early morning soak in the geothermal pool when the steam rises like the town is breathing with the earth itself.
