Let's Swim at Seljavallalaug (At Our Own Risk)

Home to less than 326,000 people, the island of Iceland is the most densely populated country of Europe.  Two-thirds of the residents live in or around the nation's capital, Reykjavik, leaving the rest of the 40,000 square miles up to one's self to discover.  Located only about 20 miles from the capital, many tourists (and even Icelanders) tend to miss Seljavallalaug, for there is no direct path to this hidden cove.

Photo courtesy of wikimedia.com

Built in 1923, the pool of Saljavellir is one of the oldest public pools in Iceland.  Located in the valley, the pool is about a 10-15 minute walk from the closest road and parking area.  Once at the pool, one's view is not only the magnificent cliffs and rolling hills, but also the steaming waters rushing out of the mountains.  The pool is comfortably warm and typically secluded, so many Icelanders take advantage and bathe in the midst of Mother Nature. 

Just in case one wants to change after his or her swim, there is still a men and women's changing room in the white hut behind the pool.  Included in the changing room is just that: a changing room.  There are no toilets nor showers.  

Unfortunately, Seljavallalaug sits right beneath the infamous volcano Eyjafallajokull, which erupted in 2010.  Simply put, ash completely covered not only the pool, but also polluted air and delayed air traffic all over Europe for a week.  

In the summer of 2011, volunteer crews cleaned up and restored the pool of Saljavellir.  The hot pool is still accessible to the public, but officials warn tourists to swim at their own risk.  Maintenance is only kept up once a year, but fortunately volunteer work comes to the rescue yet again.  

Photo courtesy of www.iceland.de

The hot pool is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.  So whether the weather is rain, shine, snow, or anywhere else in-between, visitors can guarantee themselves a hot treat in Seljavallalaug, Iceland.