Soaking in a steaming hot tub while breathing in crisp North Atlantic air is one of the most authentically Icelandic experiences you can have. Public hot tubs (heitir pottar) are part of everyday life here—locals meet friends, unwind after work, and even discuss politics while soaking. If you’re staying with Ourhotels.is in West Iceland, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy this tradition like a local.
Here’s how to use Iceland’s public hot tubs, what to expect, and where to go near Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn.
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### 1. Understand the Culture: Hot Tubs Are Social, Not Spa-Like
Iceland’s public hot tubs are usually part of local swimming pool complexes (sundlaugar). They’re casual, friendly, and very much part of daily life. Don’t think luxury spa; think neighborhood living room in warm water.
You’ll find:
– Multiple hot tubs at different temperatures
– A main swimming pool (often outdoor and heated)
– Sometimes a cold plunge, steam room, or sauna
At Ourhotels.is, our staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can point you to the nearest pools and current opening hours—many are open early and close late, so you can soak before breakfast or after a day of exploring.
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### 2. The Golden Rule: Shower Naked (Properly) Before Entering
This is the most important part of using Iceland’s public hot tubs.
You must:
1. Undress completely in the changing room.
2. Shower naked in the communal showers.
3. Wash thoroughly with soap—especially hair, armpits, feet, and private areas.
4. Rinse off all soap before putting on your swimsuit.
This isn’t optional. It’s about keeping the water clean for everyone, and locals take it seriously. Many pools even have signs showing where to wash. If you’re unsure, just follow what others do.
Tip: Bring your own swimsuit and towel, or rent them at many pools. If you’re staying at an Ourhotels.is property, ask reception what’s available locally and what to pack.
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### 3. What to Bring to the Pool
Most public pools are simple and affordable, but it helps to come prepared:
– Swimsuit
– Towel
– Flip-flops or sandals (optional but nice for cold floors)
– Hair tie if you have long hair
– A small bag for wet items
At Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, our teams can help you find the closest supermarket or shop if you need to pick up any of these.
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### 4. Hot Tub Etiquette: How to Blend In Like a Local
Once you’re in the water, the rules are relaxed but respectful:
– **Enter slowly** – Some tubs are very hot (up to 42°C / 108°F).
– **Keep voices low** – People chat, but it’s not a loud party atmosphere.
– **Respect personal space** – Don’t crowd others, especially in smaller tubs.
– **No glass or alcohol** – Public pools are family-friendly and alcohol-free.
– **Photos** – Be very careful. Avoid taking photos where others might appear in swimsuits.
If you’re unsure about anything, just ask the staff or a local. Icelanders are usually happy to explain.
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### 5. How to Use the Different Tubs and Facilities
Most pool complexes in West Iceland have:
– **Hot tubs at different temperatures** – Start with a milder one and move hotter if you like.
– **Cold plunge or cold pool** – Great for circulation; alternate hot and cold if you’re feeling brave.
– **Steam room or sauna** – Not everywhere, but common in larger towns.
A good routine:
1. Shower and change.
2. Warm up in a mild hot tub.
3. Try a hotter tub or a short cold plunge.
4. Finish with a comfortable temperature and relax.
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### 6. Using Public Hot Tubs Near Hvítá Inn (Borgarfjörður)
Staying at **Hvítá Inn** with Ourhotels.is puts you in the heart of Borgarfjörður, close to Borgarnes and some excellent local pools.
Nearby options typically include:
– **Borgarnes Swimming Pool (Sundlaug Borgarness)** – A classic local pool with hot tubs, often a waterslide, and great views over the fjord.
– Smaller local pools in the region that offer a quieter, more rural feel.
After a day exploring waterfalls, lava fields, and hot springs in Borgarfjörður, slipping into a hot tub is the perfect way to end the day. Ask the Hvítá Inn staff for:
– Opening hours and entrance fees
– Which pools are best for families vs. quiet relaxation
– Driving directions and parking tips
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### 7. Hot Tubs Around Stykkishólmur Inn (Snæfellsnes Peninsula)
From **Stykkishólmur Inn**, you’re right on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with easy access to both nature and local bathing culture.
In and around Stykkishólmur you’ll typically find:
– A local swimming pool with hot tubs and often a great view over the town and islands.
– Access to other pools around Snæfellsnes if you’re driving the peninsula.
A great day could look like:
1. Explore the harbor and islands around Stykkishólmur.
2. Drive the coastline or visit Snæfellsjökull National Park.
3. Return to town and soak in the hot tubs as the evening light softens over Breiðafjörður.
The team at Stykkishólmur Inn can recommend:
– The best time of day to avoid crowds
– Family-friendly options
– Where to combine a soak with a good local meal afterward
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### 8. Soaking Like a Local in Ísafjörður (Westfjords)
If you’re staying at **Ísafjörður Inn**, you’re in the Westfjords—one of Iceland’s most dramatic and remote regions, and a paradise for hot water lovers.
In and around Ísafjörður you can enjoy:
– The town’s own swimming pool with hot tubs, often popular with locals after work.
– Access to some of Iceland’s most beautiful natural hot pools and nearby village pools in the Westfjords.
A typical Westfjords experience:
– Spend the day hiking, driving mountain passes, or visiting remote fjords.
– Return to Ísafjörður, slip into a hot tub, and let your muscles recover while you watch the mountains rise around you.
Ask the Ísafjörður Inn staff for:
– Current road conditions to more remote pools
– Which natural hot springs are safe and accessible
– Local etiquette for wild hot springs vs. public pools
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### 9. Costs, Opening Hours, and Practical Tips
– **Price**: Public pools are usually very affordable compared to private spas.
– **Payment**: Most accept cards; cash is rarely necessary.
– **Opening hours**: Often open early morning and into the evening, but can vary by season and day of the week.
– **Weather**: Pools are open year-round—even in winter storms. The water is warm, and soaking in the snow is a uniquely Icelandic joy.
Staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can check current hours for you and help you plan your day around a relaxing soak.
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### 10. Why Stay With Ourhotels.is for Your Hot Tub Adventures
Choosing **Ourhotels.is** in West Iceland makes it easy to enjoy Iceland’s hot tub culture:
– **Local knowledge** – Our teams know the best nearby pools and hidden gems.
– **Ideal locations** – Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on Snæfellsnes, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords place you close to both public pools and natural hot springs.
– **Comfort after soaking** – Warm, cozy rooms and good sleep after a long, hot soak and a day of exploring.
By following local etiquette—especially the proper shower routine—you’ll be welcomed into one of Iceland’s most cherished traditions. From Borgarfjörður’s river valleys to the islands of Stykkishólmur and the dramatic fjords of Ísafjörður, using Iceland’s public hot tubs is more than just relaxation; it’s a window into everyday Icelandic life.
When you arrive at any Ourhotels.is property, just ask at reception: “Where’s the best hot tub nearby?” and we’ll help you plan your perfect soak.
