Notable for its greenhouses and floriculture, Hveragerði locals have made several clever moves to make use of the geothermal heat. The swimming pool Laugaskarð, built in the 1940s, is one of them. Ranking among the top pools in the country, and the best in the world according to some Grapevine staffers, the swimming pool alone attracts dozens of visitors every weekend who just want to relax in the hot tub. Together with the quiet village vibe in the calm country town, the stay is almost indescribable for those who haven’t tried it.
But every pool in the country has a hot tub, so what’s special about this one? There are several things that make this pool distinct from all others within close reach. First, and most important of all, is the fact that it’s an outdoor pool with an incredible view. While soaking in the hot tub, you can gaze at the steep mountain hills that seem to be only metres away. Its architecture is also interesting. The pool is moderately designed and, although constructed almost 70 years ago, it’s equipped with all the up-to-date indulgences we modern folk crave so much, including a jacuzzi, natural steam bath, massage parlour and spa.
After lingering in the hot tub for hours, there’s no better way of completing the day than dropping by at Eden for some ice cream. Just ask whoever you pass on the street, they will know the way. Its ice-cream is so good that despite the ice-cream kiosks located on almost every street corner in Reykjavík, people still drive all the way to Hveragerði for a taste of the local ice-cream.
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