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You will find hot springs all over Iceland. That’s because all the volcanic activity here on the islan heats up our underground water supply. Some hot springs can still be found in their natural form, whilst others are used in man-made geothermal pools.
The latter is often because the hot spring is nearly impossible to get to, or simply too hot for humans to use safely. One of the hot springs in Iceland that embodies almost everything we’ve mentioned thus far is Deildartunguhver Hot Springs.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Deildartunguhver. From what exactly it is and all the things you can do there, to how to get there and what entry to the hot springs will cost you. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
What are the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs?
Deildartunguhver Hot Spring is an incredibly interesting place to visit for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it’s the biggest and most powerful hot spring in Iceland, pumping out water at a staggering 180 liters per second. This is also not the type of natural hot spring that you’ll go and take a soak in (unless you want to become Kentucky Fried Human). The water is a piping hot 97 degrees Celsius.
The second thing that makes Deildartunguhver Thermal Spring so special is the fact that the Deer Fern (or Hard Fern as it’s also known) grows near Deildartunguhver, and it’s the only known place in the entire country, where this fern can be found. Deildartunguhver is located near Kleppjarnsreykir Village, west of Reykholt. This is roughly 100 kilometers north of the capital city of Reykjavik.
But this incredible hot spring is also not location-bound. It is used to heat up homes and businesses in the towns of Akranes and Borgarnes with a pipeline that stretches over 64-kilometers, and if you find hot water within a 65-kilometer radius of the springs, it’s more than likely the springs that are responsible for the heat!
What to Do at the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs
The following are some of the things you can do at and around Deildartunguhver:
Take a Dip at Krauma
You might not be able to have a relaxing soak in What to Do at the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs itself, but remember when we mentioned that hot springs are used in man-made geothermal pools? Well, Deildartunguhver’s hot water can be felt as one takes a dip in one of Krauma’s five hot pools (some shell-shaped) offering visitors incredible views.
Krauma also has a cold pool, a steam room, a sauna, and all sorts of other amenities. With so much to maintain it’s no wonder that one has to pay an entrance fee here. Access will cost you about $42.50.
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Grab Some Organic Tomatoes
Right next to Deildartunguhver, you will find a stand selling delicious organic tomatoes. These tomatoes are grown in greenhouses that use Deildartunguhver’s geothermal heat, which makes them extra special.
Visit the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls
The Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfalls are “brothers”, located conveniently close to one another, so they can both be visited in one trip.
How to Get to the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs in Iceland
The best way to get to Deildartunguhver is by making a road trip out of it, although you will find a few tour operators and private guides that will also take you to the hot springs. Drive north from Reykjavik, past Mt. Esja, and through the famous tunnel underneath the sea, Hvalfjördur.
Turn right towards the valley of Borgarfjördur just before passing the bridge to Borgarnes. Continue on Road 50 till you see the sign where one turns off to Deildartunguhver and Krauma. It might sound like a long trip, but it’s just 104 kilometers in total which equates to about a 1.5-hour drive.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs?
There is no fee to visit Deildartunguhver Hot Springs, and even parking at the springs is free. This will, of course, change when one uses a personal guide or book a spot on a tour.
What to Pack for a Trip to the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs
Packing for the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs are the same as for any other day outing here in Iceland, where it’s always a good idea to take along an extra pair of clothes, and taking along waterproof clothing and gear for unexpected weather and any unwanted wetness.
The only difference is a few additional items such as a bathing suit (if you want to stop at Krauma), a quick-drying towel (you don’t want to be lugging around a bunch of wet things), flip-flops (also for around Krauma and it’s changing rooms), and a refillable water bottle.
Also, remember to pack your sunscreen, and wear it, even if it’s an overcast and cloudy day that doesn’t feel too hot – that UV rays will still get you. Also remember to bring your camera to capture all the special moments (whether it’s an actual camera or your mobile phone is up to you).
Best Time to Visit the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs
As an outdoor activity, one should always consider the weather when planning a visit to Deildartunguhver. Firstly, you may want to consider coming during the warmer months, with prime time being between June to August. Secondly, even in the warmer months, you’ll need to remain mindful of the weather and keep an eye on the Icelandic weather forecast.
Lastly, if you are going to attempt a visit during the colder months of the year, you will need to keep an eye on the Icelandic road conditions, as ice and snow can cause sudden road closures.
Where to Stay Near the Deildartunguhver Hot Springs
If you would like to extend your stay to explore the area, you will find plenty of overnight accommodation to choose from. You can opt for a luxury stay at one of the hotels such as the Fosshotel Reykholt or Hotel Husafell.
Or go for a comfortable, yet affordable stay at one of the guesthouses or self-catering places like Nes Guesthouse or Kopareykir Holiday Homes. You can also opt for the most budget-friendly option of going camping at Kleppjarnsreykjum Campground, although you should only consider this during the warmer months of the year.
Make Deildartunguhver Hot Springs a Stop Along Your Iceland Road Trip
The best way to explore the island properly is by making a road trip out of it, especially a Ring Road road trip which will take you all around Iceland and give you a taste of all the different terrain and interesting sights – including Deildartunguhver Hot Springs.
So, when things start heating up on the island during the warmer months of the year, rent a car in Reykjavik, hit the road, and take a break along the way at Deildartunguhver.
