Basic Information
Iceland is widely known as a place of fire and ice and it is absolutely apt to say this owing to the fact that this place makes you witness the incredible power of nature. Be it massive geothermal fields, vast lava fields, staggering waterfalls, colorful mountains of the majestic highlands, or steaming geysers and volcanic mountains, Iceland has everything that you wish to see once in your lifetime. Iceland sets the benchmark for the adventure seekers, solo travelers, seasoned traveler or for those who wish to visit this place with their family. If you haven’t been to Iceland, you are certainly missing out experiencing one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Not just the natural scenic views and places, but Iceland has something for everyone. From golfing, fishing, and exploring the Icelandic outdoors, you will never leave Iceland with any disappointment.
Now, when you are preparing your travel itinerary, there is one place in Reykjavik city that should not be missed and that is Nauthólsvík geothermal beach, you will witness a perfect combination of artificial hot spring located alongside a beach. So, let’s dive in a bit deeper to know about this place.
Nauthólsvík Beach - In the Capital City, Reykjavík
Nauthólsvík, which is a manmade sandy beach, is an extremely popular sight to visit when in Iceland. The beach is located just a couple of minutes drive from downtown Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, and is approximately around 900 meters away from Perlan that is a prominent landmark in Iceland. Another most common and well-known landmark that is located next to the beach is the University of Reykjavik or the Reykjavik Domestic Airport.
Nauthólsvík beach is located near Öskuhlíð, which is a forested hill that has cycling routes and trails for the adventure enthusiasts; some of the routes might take you to the remnants from World War II. Just at the top of this hill is a fascinating museum – Perlan, which gives an exceptionally stunning platform to witness Iceland’s beauty. So, you have got a perfect chance to experience the densely forested area, with a museum at the hilltop and of course ample time to enjoy the beach as well.
Nauthólsvík is a popular destination amidst the tourists and visitors because unlike other beaches in Iceland, this one has an artificial hot spring! While you might witness black sand, crystal clear icebergs, and ashes on another Icelandic beach, here you have the chance to take a sunbath on the golden sand glittering all over the beach. Not just this you have a picturesque view of the Kopavogur right in front of you. Kopavogur is a town, which is located in the greater Reykjavík area. Nauthólsvík beach has a small cove that has the pumped geothermal water, which when heated averages to around 15 to 19 degrees, but in winters it is still very cold. Despite having a chilled weather all year round, the lagoon water is warmed up with the run-off water, fetched from hot water tanks at Öskjuhlíð.
Enjoy Swimming, Steam Bath, BBQ with Friends and Family
Apart from relaxing in the hot water, enjoying the steam bath, or sunbathing, several recreational activities can be done at Nauthólsvík. It has become a tradition among locals to go swimming in the cold sea, an activity called sea swimming or “Sjósund”. After swimming in the freezing sea, you can dip into the geothermal hot tub. If you are visiting with your family, you can play volleyball, create sandcastles with your kids, and can have BBQ prepared in the dedicated area. It is indeed a perfect and popular outdoor picnic destination amidst the locals and the tourists for enjoying sailing, sea bathing, sauna, and other outdoor activities. So, don’t forget to carry your favorite snacks, sports ball, or BBQ items when planning to spend some fun time with your family at Nauthólsvík beach.
How to Reach Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach?
It won’t take much time to reach Nauthólsvík, considering wherever you are in Reykjavik. It is only a 5-minute car drive from the city center of Reykjavik. Or you can simply take bus Nr. 5 and you will be dropped to Nauthóll HR stop, located right by the main university. From here, you can walk to the Nauthólsvík beach within 10 minutes.
