Iceland Attractions

Venue: Landmannalaugar Hot Springs    When: Daily

Whether it's a bad back, debilitating migraines, depression or good old familiar stress, many swear by the healing effects of a good soak at the Landmannalaugar hot springs.

This region has the extraordinary blessing of a unique mix of waters: boiling hot flows due to the raging subterranean volcanic activity, together with the freezing waters from its glacier-laden frozen surface. The result is a gloriously hot mineral-rich soak, with a chilly alternative for the devoted. Move around in the water to experience something like turning the hot and cold taps on and off in the bath.

Like other outdoor bathing activities in this country, taking your clothes off in the first place can be a chilly experience to say the least, but this only adds to the joy of plunging into the steamy water and staying there until you're wrinkly. The springs are well equipped with lockers and changing rooms and a place to get a nice hot cup of tea after your bath.

Landmannalaugar lies 600 metres above sea level, and comprises the largest geothermal field in Iceland, outside the best-known caldera (volcanic crater) in Vatnajokull. You know when you've arrived there by the craggy rhyolite peaks and black lava fields that take some dedication to drive through.

Apart from the waters, the stunning local region includes Mount Hekla - one of Iceland's favourite (and active) volcanoes.