Hofsós Swimming Pool

The Hofsós swimming pool is a masterpiece of modest public architecture: a geothermally heated outdoor pool perched on a rocky ledge above Skagafjörður fjord in the small village of Hofsós, Northwest Iceland. Designed to dissolve into the fjord, the pool’s overflow edge creates the impression that the water extends seamlessly to the horizon and the volcanic island of Drangey beyond.

The pool is heated to a comfortable 30–31°C for lane swimming, and the adjacent hot tubs reach 38–39°C for relaxing. Despite its modest size, it consistently ranks among Iceland’s most beautiful pools and draws visitors from across the country. Hofsós village itself has a small Icelandic Emigration Centre museum tracing the history of Icelanders who left for North America.

Entry is at standard Icelandic public pool pricing (around 1,200–1,500 ISK for adults). Open Monday–Friday 07:00–20:00 and weekends 10:00–18:00; summer hours are extended. Always verify current hours locally as they change seasonally.