Most visitors rush the south and never reach the east, which is exactly why it rewards those who do. The Eastfjords are calmer, the skies bigger, and the warm water often almost to yourself. With Hótel Breiðdalsvík as a base, you can reach a different experience each day and still be back for dinner.
Vök Baths
The east's star: Iceland's only certified natural baths, with floating infinity pools resting on the surface of Lake Urriðavatn near Egilsstaðir. Step from the warm pools straight into the cool lake, then warm up with herbal tea from the on site bar. Sleek, calm, and family friendly, the most comfortable introduction to bathing in the east.
Laugarvellir
For those who like to earn their soak, Laugarvellir is a warm waterfall and natural pool in the highlands above the eastern valleys. Bathing under falling warm water in complete quiet is among the most memorable things you can do in Iceland. It is reached on foot or on a guided 4x4 and walk day, best in summer and early autumn when the highland routes are open.
Sea bathing in the fjords
Increasingly popular for its clean, energising lift: a guided cold water dip in a sheltered Eastfjord, followed by a warm up. Always go with a guide who knows the safe entry points and the tides.
Village geothermal pools
Every Icelandic village has its geothermal pool, and the east's are quiet, warm and welcoming, the most authentic, low cost way to soak like a local on any evening of your stay.
Stay three nights and the east starts to do its quiet work.
A simple rhythm
Bathing is best unhurried. A pattern that works: settle in at Hótel Breiðdalsvík; an easy first day at Vök Baths; a bigger day hiking to Laugarvellir; and a final slow morning with a village pool and a fjord walk before you move on. Three nights is the sweet spot.
Base yourself in the east
Three slow days of warm water and fjord air, based at Hótel Breiðdalsvík.
See the journeyThe east also forms the wild heart of our Ring Road Wellness loop, or browse all of Iceland's springs on the Hot Springs Map.