7 Best Sights in Reykjanes Peninsula and the South Coast (with the Golden Circle), Iceland

This world-renowned therapeutic pool is now a sheltered site where man-made structures blend with natural geologic formations. A reception area includes food concessions and boutique shops where you can buy health products made from the lagoon's mineral-rich ingredients. Bathing suits are available to rent, and high-tech bracelets keep track of your locker code, any purchases, and the length of your visit. The lagoon is only 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport and 50 minutes from Reykjavík by car. Buses run from the BSÍ bus terminal in Reykjavík to the Blue Lagoon frequently. Booking in advance is essential. For a more personalized experience, you can also book a spa treatment at the lagoon's on-site Retreat Hotel, whether or not you're staying at there. This is a little-known way to have your own private lagoon experience.  The Blue Lagoon has been closed off and in early 2024 due to volcanic activity in the immediate vicinity, so be sure to verify its opening before planning a visit.

Taking a dip in a natural hot spring surrounded by green fields and a tiny geyser sounds great, but when you add in showers and cold drinks, it's almost too good to be true. Locals have left this lagoon largely untouched but have set up new facilities. It's even more magical during winter when people sit in the warm water with steam rising all around them. If you're lucky, the northern lights will put on a show across the sky while you're there.

This colorful geothermal area, with raw bubbling mud pots and steam and hot little rivers emerging from the earth, is one of the gems of the Reykjanes peninsula. Located on the scenic Krýsuvík road (Route 42)—which passes volcanic sandstone cliffs, lakes with black-sand beaches, and outlandish lava formations—this stop is a must along the interesting drive. The minerals spewed from the ground at unbelievable temperatures stain the rocks in blood reds, deep blues, beige yellows, and neon greens. The nicely restored walking paths and spacious parking lot make it easily accessible for most visitors. There are also bathrooms available. 

This geothermal field is named for Guðrún Önundardóttir's ghost, who sought revenge after being mistreated by a lawyer. After several deaths connected to Guðrún (also called Gunna), a sorcerer was sent to put her to rest in the hot spring. The walk over the historical bridge is well worth the wet clothes and the strong smell of sulfur.

Swimming in a cold, refreshing lake for a few minutes and then running back to the hot tub or sauna is a unique healing exercise that rewards you with a rush of endorphins. If you think it's too cold on this island for that, Fontana offers a relaxing warm soak in the tub. They also have a lovely geothermal bakery, which they offer tours of twice a day. 

This clinic is where Icelanders come to regain their health and peace of mind. Spa treatments like deep-heat mud baths and massages are available to both visitors and prescription-bearing patients. Before and after treatments you are welcome to use the hot tub, sauna, or swimming pool. There is also an on-site restaurant that offers healthy dishes made mostly from local ingredients.

In a narrow valley beneath the now world-famous Eyjafjallajökull is one of the more authentic geothermal baths around, with the hot springs from the mountain running straight into the pool. The 25-meter pool was built in 1923 and is considered semi-abandoned and therefore is free of charge. There are changing rooms next to the pool—though they are basic and often dirty. Granted, Seljavallalaug might not be the hottest hot spring around—it's more often than not a tepid warm—but the peaceful atmosphere more than makes up for it.