Visiting Laugarvatn Fontana Spa with a Rental Car: A Relaxing Icelandic Getaway

The Golden Circle is often the cornerstone of an Icelandic adventure, a well-trodden path that connects three of the country's most spectacular natural wonders. While Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall are essential stops, the journey between them holds its own unique treasures. One of the most rewarding is Laugarvatn Fontana, a geothermal spa that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, tradition, and stunning lakeside scenery.

Planning a self-drive tour is the ideal way to experience the Golden Circle at your own pace, allowing you the flexibility to discover hidden gems like Laugarvatn Fontana. This guide provides all the information you need to incorporate this unique spa experience into your itinerary, from driving directions and vehicle recommendations to what makes this geothermal getaway so special. With a reliable rental car from Höldur, you can transform a day of sightseeing into a truly immersive Icelandic experience.

What is Laugarvatn Fontana?

Laugarvatn Fontana is a geothermal spa built on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn, a body of water situated directly on the Golden Circle route. For nearly a century, the local community has been harnessing the natural geothermal energy of the area for everything from heating homes to cooking. Fontana builds on this long tradition, offering a modern wellness experience powered by the earth itself.

The spa is more than just a place to soak. It’s a complete sensory experience that connects you directly to the powerful natural forces shaping Iceland. From geothermally heated pools to unique steam baths built over a natural hot spring, every element is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Key Features of Laugarvatn Fontana:

• Geothermal Baths: Fontana features a series of interconnected outdoor mineral baths and hot tubs with varying temperatures, all offering panoramic views of Lake Laugarvatn and the surrounding landscape. The mineral-rich water is naturally heated and sourced directly from the hot springs below.
• Natural Steam Rooms: The spa’s most unique feature is its traditional steam rooms. These are simple huts built directly over a bubbling, 100°C (212°F) hot spring. The steam rises through grids in the floor, creating a humid, natural steam bath. The intensity varies depending on the temperature of the hot spring.
• Finnish-style Sauna: For those who prefer dry heat, a large sauna with a massive window overlooking the lake provides another way to unwind.
• Lake Laugarvatn Access: For a truly invigorating experience, you can take a dip in the cool waters of Lake Laugarvatn. A short walk from the hot pools leads to a black sand beach and a pier, allowing for a refreshing contrast to the warm geothermal water. This hot-and-cold therapy is a classic Icelandic wellness ritual.

The Geothermal Rye Bread Experience

One of the most memorable activities at Laugarvatn Fontana is the daily "Geothermal Bakery" tour. This experience showcases a unique Icelandic tradition: baking rye bread (rúgbrauð) using the earth’s natural heat.

During the tour, a staff member leads you to the lakeshore, where you witness them dig up a pot of freshly baked bread that has been slowly cooking in the hot geothermal sands for 24 hours. You get to taste the warm, dense, and slightly sweet bread, served the traditional Icelandic way with a generous spread of butter. It is a delicious and fascinating demonstration of how Icelanders have coexisted with their volcanic environment for centuries.

Planning Your Self-Drive Trip to Laugarvatn Fontana

A rental car provides the freedom to seamlessly integrate a visit to Fontana into your Golden Circle itinerary. It allows you to set your own schedule, avoid tour bus crowds, and explore the surrounding area at your leisure.

Getting There from Reykjavik

Laugarvatn Fontana is conveniently located almost exactly in the middle of the Golden Circle route. The drive from Reykjavik is approximately 78 kilometers (48 miles) and takes just over an hour.

• Route: Drive east from Reykjavik on the Ring Road (Route 1) for a short distance before turning onto Route 36 towards Þingvellir National Park. Continue past Þingvellir on Route 365, which then merges with Route 37. Follow Route 37 directly to the village of Laugarvatn. The spa is well-signposted.

Road Conditions and Vehicle Recommendations

The roads on the Golden Circle are paved and well-maintained, making them accessible year-round.

• Vehicle Choice: For a summer trip (May-September) focused on the Golden Circle, a 2WD vehicle is perfectly suitable. The driving is straightforward and does not require any special capabilities.
• Winter Driving: If you are visiting between October and April, a 4x4 vehicle with studded tires is highly recommended for enhanced safety. While the Golden Circle is a priority route for snow clearing, conditions can change quickly, and roads can become icy.

Höldur Car Rental offers a diverse fleet to match your travel season. You can conveniently begin your journey by collecting your car from our premium locations, including the arrivals hall at Keflavik International Airport or our office in Central Reykjavik.

Integrating Fontana into a Golden Circle Itinerary

Laugarvatn’s central location makes it an ideal stop at any point during your day.

• Morning Stop: Start your day with a relaxing soak before continuing to the more crowded sights of Geysir and Gullfoss.
• Midday Break: Use Fontana as a relaxing lunch stop. Enjoy the rye bread experience and a meal at the on-site café before tackling the second half of your tour.
• Evening Wind-Down: End your day of sightseeing with a soothing visit to Fontana. Soaking in the hot pools as the sun sets over the lake is an unforgettable way to conclude your Golden Circle adventure.

Nearby Attractions

• Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
• Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the active Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most powerful and iconic waterfalls, cascading down two tiers into a rugged canyon.
• Kerið Crater: A volcanic crater lake with striking red walls and deep blue water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to book my visit to Laugarvatn Fontana in advance?

It is highly recommended to book your entrance, especially during peak season (summer) and for the Geothermal Bakery experience, as spots are limited. Booking online is easy and guarantees your entry.

Are towels and swimsuits available for rent?

Yes, you can rent towels and swimsuits at the reception if you do not have your own.

How much time should I allocate for a visit?

Plan for at least 2-3 hours. This gives you enough time to enjoy the various pools and steam rooms, participate in the rye bread tour, and fully relax without feeling rushed.

Is Laugarvatn Fontana suitable for children?

Yes, Fontana is family-friendly. The pools have shallower areas, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

 

A visit to Laugarvatn Fontana elevates a standard Golden Circle tour into a more profound cultural and wellness experience. It offers a moment of peaceful relaxation amid a day of spectacular sightseeing and provides a unique insight into Icelandic traditions. By choosing a self-drive tour, you give yourself the gift of flexibility to discover authentic gems like this at your own pace.

Your Icelandic adventure awaits — and we’ll be right there with you every mile of the way.

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