Iceland is not only known for its outstanding volcanic landscape and geothermal energy but also for its 100+ public swimming pools, most of them heated thanks to the all-natural volcanic heat. Icelanders of all ages go to the pool regularly. If you are awake early on a weekday and feel like a morning hot pot, the standard opening time is 6:30 am. When at the pool so early, you’ll be amazed to see it more crowded at opening time, than at 9:00 or 15:00! A dip in the pool before work is common!
The swimming pools in Iceland come with strict hygiene rules, everyone must shower naked before entering the pool, but don't panic! men and women have separate shower rooms. Showering naked at the public pool is the norm for Icelanders, but for anyone uncomfortable about it, most pools have at least one shower with a curtain. You must know, the pool facilities are not just for swimmers, many people go just to lounge in the hot pots, steam rooms, and jacuzzis.
More than just a leisure activity, the swimming pool is an institution in Iceland, even the smallest village has a pool. The swimming pools are around 30 degrees celsius and the hot pots between 37 to 43 degrees celsius. In the middle of winter, do not hesitate to go to the pool, after ten minutes in a hot pot at 40 degrees celsius, you can easily walk from a pot to a pool without feeling the cold.
The swimming pool in Hofsós, Skagafjörður is well known in Iceland for having an extraordinary view. While there you can enjoy the spectacular view of the Þórðarhöfði peninsula, Drangey island, and Skagafjörður fjord. The pool overlooks the sea, so from certain photo angles, you would think that the pool and sea are one.
While visiting the beautiful peninsula Seltjarnarnes in the west of Central Reykjavík, check out the local pool. It has a large salt water pool, a children's pool, four hot pots and steam room. This is certainly the right place to come to relax after a morning’s outing in Reykjavik.
The pool Hreppslaug, near Borgarnes, was built in 1928 and is protected as a cultural heritage. It is surrounded by beautiful nature and hot springs, that supply Hreppslaug's pool and hot pots with natural hot water.
Joanne, IcelandAttractions.blogspot.com
