Gamla Laugin or The Old Pool as Icelanders call it is located in the small town Flúðir in South Iceland. Flúðir is part of the Golden Circle Route so it’s the perfect way to end your day of sightseeing around the South and relax in this warm natural pool. 

The pool was built in the year 1891 and was then the first public pool in Iceland. Swimming lessons were offered there until the year 1947 but then a new pool was built in Flúðir and sadly The Old Pool became forgotten. Few years ago the pool was opened again and given a new name; The Secret Lagoon, as it had been kept secret for such a long time. The facilities around the pool where renovated and now offer showers, changing rooms, outside deck, bar and eating area. Food is not served daily but snacks and drinks are available to purchase.

The pool is a natural hot spring and 38-39° degree hot water constantly runs into the pool. The area around the pool is beautiful with the ruins from the old locker rooms and steaming hot springs around the pool give the place a magical feeling. It is also interesting to walk around the marked paths that lead to the geothermal area and check out the hot springs there. One of them is The Vaðmálahver hot spring where women used to do their laundry back in the days. Litli Geysir is a hot spring that erupts every five minutes or so and can be seen from the pool.

It is a unique icelandic experience to visit the Secret Pool that is available all year round. In the winter time it is possible to see the Northern Lights while relaxing in the pool. 

Directions

The drive to the pool from Reykjavík is about 1 hour and 20 minutes (98 km). Take Ring Road nr. 1 towards the town Selfoss, drive through the town and then take road nr. 30 to the town Flúðir. When in Flúðir turn where the sign says Hvammur and then the pool is just few meters ahead. 
Read more about Driving in Iceland.