Soaking in a hot tub with steam rising into crisp, clean air is one of the purest Icelandic pleasures—and a must‑do during your stay with Ourhotels.is. But before you slip into that geothermal bliss, it helps to know a bit about Icelandic swimming pool and hot tub etiquette. It’s simple, respectful, and part of what keeps these beloved community spaces so clean and welcoming.
Whether you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you’ll find wonderful pools and hot tubs nearby. Here’s how to enjoy them like a local.
Iceland’s love affair with pools and hot tubs
In Iceland, swimming pools (sundlaugar) are much more than places to exercise. They’re social hubs, relaxation spots, and a daily ritual for many locals. Almost every town has at least one pool, usually with several hot tubs at different temperatures, a cold plunge, and often a steam room.
For travelers, this means:
– An easy way to unwind after a day of exploring
– A chance to meet locals in a relaxed setting
– A very affordable “spa” experience, often with incredible views
But to keep these spaces pristine, Icelanders follow a few clear rules.
The golden rule: shower naked, with soap
This is the most important part of Icelandic pool etiquette.
Before entering any pool or hot tub, 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. Because the water is often only lightly chlorinated and shared by many people, cleanliness is taken seriously. Don’t worry—everyone is focused on their own routine, and it’s simply a normal part of Icelandic life.
Changing room tips
– Remove shoes before entering the locker area if requested
– Use the lockers provided (you may need a coin or your own padlock in some places)
– Dry off before going back into the locker area to avoid puddles on the floor
– Keep your phone away—using cameras or phones in changing areas is strictly frowned upon
In the pool and hot tubs
Once you’re clean and in your swimsuit, it’s time to relax. A few simple guidelines will help you blend in:
– Rinse briefly before entering the pool or hot tub if you’ve been in the steam room or sauna
– Enter quietly and choose a spot without splashing others
– Keep voices low—people chat, but it’s more calm conversation than loud laughter
– Don’t dive or jump into hot tubs
– Long hair? Tie it back or keep it out of the water
– No glass containers—use plastic or metal bottles if you bring water
Hot tub culture: conversation and calm
Hot tubs (heitir pottar) are where Icelanders catch up on news, politics, and everyday life. You’re welcome to join in, but it’s also fine to simply sit back and enjoy the warmth.
– If a tub is crowded, choose another or wait a moment
– If someone seems to want quiet, respect their space
– A friendly “Góðan daginn” (good day) or “Sæll/Sæl” (hi) is always appreciated
Family‑friendly spaces
Icelandic pools are very family‑oriented, and you’ll often see children playing in the main pool while adults relax in the hot tubs.
– Follow any posted rules about children in hot tubs
– Running, shouting, and rough play are discouraged outside designated play areas
– Lifeguards are respected and their instructions followed immediately
Seasonal tips
– In winter, walk carefully—surfaces can be slippery
– Don’t leave towels or robes where they’ll get soaked by snow or rain
– In summer, pools can be busier in the evenings when locals finish work
How Ourhotels.is fits into your pool‑hopping plans
Staying with Ourhotels.is puts you close to some of the most charming pools in West Iceland and the Westfjords.
Hvítá Inn – Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes)
From Hvítá Inn, you’re within easy reach of several excellent local pools. Borgarnes has a lovely outdoor pool complex with hot tubs and a waterslide, perfect after a day exploring Borgarfjörður’s waterfalls, lava fields, and hot springs. Ask at Hvítá Inn for directions and current opening hours—they’ll happily point you to their favorite spots.
Stykkishólmur Inn – gateway to Snæfellsnes
Stykkishólmur has one of Iceland’s most scenic pools, with views over Breiðafjörður’s islands on clear days. From Stykkishólmur Inn, it’s just a short walk or drive to soak in hot tubs while watching the light shift over the sea. It’s an ideal way to end a day of exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s black beaches, cliffs, and fishing villages.
Ísafjörður Inn – in the heart of the Westfjords
The Westfjords are famous for their dramatic landscapes—and their hot water. From Ísafjörður Inn, you can enjoy the town’s own pool or take day trips to nearby hot springs and pools scattered around the fjords. After hiking, kayaking, or driving along winding coastal roads, slipping into a hot tub with mountain views feels especially rewarding.
Making the most of your soak
To fully enjoy Icelandic pools during your stay with Ourhotels.is:
– Bring: swimsuit, towel, and a small toiletry bag with soap and shampoo
– Check: opening hours—many pools open early and close in the evening
– Plan: a pool visit at the end of your day’s activities for maximum relaxation
– Ask: Ourhotels.is staff for their favorite local pools and hidden hot pots
Respect the rules, embrace the ritual
Icelandic swimming pool and hot tub etiquette is all about respect—for the water, for other guests, and for a cherished part of local culture. Once you understand the basics—especially the full, soapy shower—you’ll find the experience natural and deeply relaxing.
During your stay at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn with Ourhotels.is, make time to visit the nearby pools. They’re not just an activity; they’re a window into everyday Icelandic life, and one of the most memorable ways to connect with this geothermal island.
