Location: Reykholt, West Iceland
Type: Historical geothermal pool
Perfect for: History lovers, literature buffs, fans of Norse mythology, photographers, and culture seekers

What is Snorralaug?

Snorralaug, which translates to “Snorri’s Pool,” is a small geothermal hot spring located in the historic village of Reykholt. Although it looks modest in size, it holds a major place in Iceland’s cultural and literary history. This circular stone pool is believed to date back to the 12th century and is named after Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland’s most important medieval writers and politicians.

Snorri lived in Reykholt from 1206 until his assassination in 1241, and he is thought to have regularly bathed in this pool. While it's no longer open for bathing, the site remains a protected national monument and a must-see for anyone interested in Iceland’s literary roots or Norse mythology.

What Makes it Special?

Snorralaug isn’t just a geothermal spring — it’s a living remnant of the Saga Age. The pool is surrounded by an old stone patio and a low retaining wall that gives it a rustic, almost mystical charm. Behind the spring is a small turf-covered hill with a wooden door leading to a tunnel, which Snorri is said to have used to access the pool directly from his home. You can still peek inside and explore the entrance of this passage today.

Although bathing has been prohibited since 1817, the spring still steams quietly in the background, a gentle reminder of Iceland’s geothermal energy and ancient past. The temperature can fluctuate significantly and is often far too hot for bathing anyway — so you’re not missing out on a soak, just gaining a historical experience.

The Legacy of Snorri Sturluson

Snorri wasn’t just a poet — he was a chieftain, historian, and political speaker, and his writings shaped how we understand Norse mythology today. He authored the Prose Edda, which preserved stories of gods like Odin, Thor, and Loki. Without Snorri’s work, most of what we know about Norse legends would have been lost.

His influence stretches well beyond Iceland. Writers like J. R. R. Tolkien, J. K. Rowling, and musicians like Richard Wagner and Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page have all drawn inspiration from the tales recorded by Snorri. Many of the dwarves in Tolkien’s work even take their names directly from the Prose Edda.

When you visit Snorralaug, you're standing in the footsteps of a man who changed the course of storytelling — not just in Iceland, but around the world.

What to Expect When You Visit

• No bathing allowed, but you’re free to walk around the spring and take photos

• Open 24/7 as an open-air historical site

• Quiet, peaceful setting surrounded by lush countryside

• The adjacent bookstore and museum are great stops for learning more about Snorri and the Sagas

• Be respectful of the site — this is an official heritage monument

• Short visit duration — perfect as a cultural stop on a road trip through West Iceland

Is Snorralaug Worth Visiting?

If you’re at all interested in Viking history, literature, mythology, or even just unique places with deep stories, Snorralaug is definitely worth a stop. You won’t spend hours here, but it leaves a lasting impression. It’s a place where nature, history, and storytelling meet — quietly steaming on a grassy hill, just like it has for centuries.

Make sure to pop into the local bookstore nearby, especially if you love Icelandic sagas. And if you're following a self-drive route in West Iceland, this is an easy and enriching detour.