Iceland’s best geothermal bathing pools

(CNN) — Spellbinding vistas punctuated by plumes of steam are commonplace while driving Iceland’s winding fjords and gravel roads.

Marking the country’s geothermal activity, this form of energy also ushers in the tradition of soaking in Iceland’s geothermal hot pools — an activity revered by locals and tourists alike.

From natural, stone-lined craters to luxuriously designed tubs, there’s countless soaking spots for every type of visitor, whatever the weather.

So whether you’re driving the Ring Road or going off-road with a 4×4 vehicle, here’s a list of long-loved hot pools — some of them scarcely visited — for your next trip to Iceland.

GeoSea

In the northern Iceland town of Húsavik, made famous by the Netflix movie “Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga,” is Geosea.

A combination of geothermal sea and rock water leaves your skin feeling fresh, but it’s the views that linger.

With a drink in hand, take in the snow-crested peaks of Flateyjarskagi Peninsula and if you’re lucky a whale fluke or two. Be sure to book your 4,900 ISK ($36) tickets in advance.

This milky blue geothermal pool needs no introduction. Near Iceland’s gateway Keflavík Airport, the country’s most popular place for a silica mask and a soak is often the country’s most crowded.

Hellulaug

This tiny pool in the Westfjords is as natural as it gets, with no changing area and an accompanying “enter at your own risk” sign to boot.

Just off Road 60, this beachside thermal pool won’t fit more than eight or nine people comfortably, so you may have to wait, but the 100-degree waters are worth it.

Landmannalaugar Hot Springs

Known as the “People’s Pool,” these steamy and shallow springs are surrounded by some of the country’s most vibrant mountains. Located in the highlands, Landmannalaugar is named for the region it’s located in.

Remember your own suit and towel; the springs are free, but the shower and changing rooms are accessible for a small fee.

Mývatn Nature Baths

Myvatn has a hot pool in a cave.

Simon Dannhauer/Adobe Stock

Open since 2004, this northern Iceland destination gets its name from the nearby volcanic lake.

Often compared to the Blue Lagoon because of its similar baby-blue waters, travelers…