Audio Guide of Snorralaug

Snorralaug is a historic geothermal pool and is generally accessible year-round, since it is outdoors. There is no official opening or closing time as such, because it is a historic site rather than a commercial swimming pool. It is located within the Reykholt complex, next to the Snorrastofa Cultural Centre. It is easy to reach on foot within the Reykholt area.

No, it is completely free! Snorralaug is an outdoor historic site, and there is no fee to visit or admire it. You can stop by at no cost and learn about its fascinating history.

A visit to Snorralaug itself is quite short, since it is a small pool. It will take about 10 to 20 minutes to admire it and read any information available there. However, we recommend combining the visit with the Snorrastofa Cultural Centre and the nearby church for a more complete experience in Reykholt.

Snorralaug is one of the oldest man-made geothermal structures in Iceland and is closely linked to Snorri Sturluson, one of the most important historians and poets of medieval Iceland. It is believed to have been his personal bathing pool, possibly also used for swimming and relaxation. Although bathing is no longer allowed for conservation reasons, its historical value is incalculable.

Snorralaug can be visited at any time of year. In summer, the weather is milder and the days are long, ideal for walking around. In winter, with snow and ice, the surrounding landscape has a special charm and can be very photogenic. However, since it is an outdoor place, it is always advisable to wear clothing suitable for Iceland’s weather conditions.

Access to Snorralaug is relatively easy, as it is at ground level and there are no stairs. However, the path around the pool may be gravel or dirt, so it is worth keeping this in mind. There are no specific ramps, but it is generally an open and passable area within the Snorrastofa complex.

In Reykholt, do not miss the Snorrastofa Cultural Centre, which offers exhibitions about the life and work of Snorri Sturluson and medieval Icelandic history. You can also visit the modern church of Reykholt and the ruins of the old church. The area is also a starting point for exploring other natural wonders in western Iceland, such as the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls or the Víðgelmir lava cave.

A good tip is to combine your visit to Snorralaug with the Snorrastofa Cultural Centre to gain a deeper understanding of Snorri Sturluson and the history of the site. Be sure to bring your camera, as it is a place with unique historic charm. And, this being Iceland, it is always a good idea to dress in layers to adapt to changing weather. Do not forget to respect the surroundings and avoid touching the pool water!