Deildartunguhver

Deildartunguhver holds the record as Europe’s highest-flow natural hot spring, producing approximately 180 litres per second of water that emerges at close to 100°C — too hot to touch and visibly boiling at the source. Located in the Reykholtsdalur valley near the town of Reykholt, it has been harnessed for district heating for decades, supplying geothermal energy to Borgarnes and Akranes via insulated pipes stretching over 60 km, a remarkable feat of Icelandic engineering.

The spring itself is a compelling natural spectacle: a wide pool of perpetually churning, steaming water that seems almost alive, bordered by bright-green algae and mineral-encrusted lava. A well-designed boardwalk and viewing platform allow close inspection without danger. Adjacent to the spring, the Krauma geothermal spa opened in 2017 and uses Deildartunguhver’s water (cooled to bathing temperatures) to fill a series of natural-feeling pools with mountain views — one of the more attractive smaller spas in Iceland.

Deildartunguhver is located off Route 50, about 50 km northeast of Borgarnes. It is an easy and rewarding addition to any West Iceland itinerary, combining naturally with Snorrastofa cultural centre at Reykholt and the Hraunfossar/Barnafoss waterfall pair a short drive away. The hot spring itself is free to view; Krauma spa charges a separate admission fee.