Hidden hot springs are one of Iceland’s greatest treasures. Steaming pools in mossy lava fields, rivers warmed by geothermal energy, and tiny rock-lined tubs with mountain views feel almost unreal—especially when you have them nearly to yourself. But with that magic comes responsibility: these fragile places can be damaged quickly if we don’t treat them with care.
Staying with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland puts you close to some of the country’s most beautiful hot spring areas, while also giving you a comfortable base and local insight on how to visit them responsibly. Whether you’re at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you’re perfectly placed to explore—and protect—these natural wonders.
Responsible hot spring hunting starts before you even leave your hotel. Ask the staff at Ourhotels.is about current conditions, road closures, and whether a spring is on public or private land. Around Borgarfjörður, for example, Hvítá Inn is surrounded by geothermal activity and rivers, but not every steaming spot is safe or legal to bathe in. Some springs are scalding hot, others are used for farming or energy, and some cross private property. Local advice helps you avoid dangerous or off-limits areas and directs you to places where visitors are genuinely welcome.
Once you’re out in nature, the most important rule is simple: leave no trace. Stay on marked paths where they exist, and avoid trampling moss or fragile vegetation to reach a pool. Icelandic moss can take decades to recover from a single footprint. If there’s no clear path, walk on durable surfaces like rocks or gravel whenever possible. Never move rocks to “improve” a pool or build new ones—this can change water flow, damage the ecosystem, and even create unsafe bathing conditions.
Cleanliness is another key part of responsible hot spring use. Always rinse off before entering a pool if there are facilities nearby, and avoid using soap, shampoo, or any products in natural springs. Even biodegradable soaps can harm the delicate micro-life in geothermal waters. Pack out everything you bring in: bottles, food wrappers, and even organic waste like fruit peels. If there’s no trash bin, carry your rubbish back to your car or hotel. The goal is to leave the spring looking as if you were never there.
Respect for others is just as important as respect for nature. Many hot springs are small, and it doesn’t take many people to make them feel crowded. If you arrive and the pool is full, consider waiting your turn or coming back later instead of squeezing in. Keep noise levels low so everyone can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re taking photos, be mindful not to include strangers in your shots without permission—especially in bathing suits.
Safety should always come first. Test the water temperature slowly with your hand or foot before getting in; geothermal activity can change, and a pool that was comfortable last year might be dangerously hot today. Avoid putting your head under the water, as some geothermal areas can contain bacteria that may cause infections. In winter, be extra careful on icy rocks and riverbanks, and never attempt to cross fast-flowing rivers to reach a spring. If conditions look risky, turn back—there will always be another hot spring to enjoy on a different day.
Your choice of base makes a big difference in how easy it is to explore responsibly. Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður is ideal if you want to combine hot spring hunting with scenic drives through fertile valleys, waterfalls, and historic sites. From here, you can explore the geothermal character of West Iceland by day and return to a warm, comfortable room at night, with staff ready to help you plan your next outing.
On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Stykkishólmur Inn offers a charming harbor-town atmosphere and access to both coastal hot pools and inland geothermal areas. After a day of exploring black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hidden bathing spots, you can unwind in Stykkishólmur’s cozy restaurants and cafés, then walk back to your room in minutes. The team at Ourhotels.is can help you choose routes that balance adventure with minimal impact on the environment.
Farther north and west, Ísafjörður Inn places you in the heart of the Westfjords—one of Iceland’s wildest and least crowded regions. Here, hot springs often come with sweeping fjord views, bird cliffs, and a sense of remoteness that’s hard to find elsewhere. Because the landscape is so pristine, responsible behavior matters even more. Staff at Ísafjörður Inn can point you toward springs that are suitable for visitors, advise on driving conditions on gravel roads, and share tips on how to enjoy the area without disturbing wildlife or local life.
By choosing locally run accommodations like Ourhotels.is and following a few simple guidelines, you help ensure that Iceland’s secret hot springs remain clean, quiet, and beautiful for future travelers—and for the communities who live nearby. Stay on paths, pack out your trash, respect private land, keep noise low, and always put safety first. In return, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most memorable moments Iceland can offer: soaking in warm, mineral-rich water while mountains, glaciers, or fjords stretch out around you.
When you’re ready to explore West Iceland’s geothermal side, Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn give you the perfect starting points. From each of these Ourhotels.is locations, you can discover hidden hot springs responsibly—and come back at the end of the day to a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and local advice for tomorrow’s adventure.
