Kvika Geothermal Footbath - Steam rises from geothermal activity in iceland.
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Kvika Geothermal Footbath

4.5
·402 reviews·Seltjarnarnes, Iceland

A small, free geothermal footbath by the ocean, offering warm relaxation and stunning views near Reykjavik.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Stunning ocean views

CrowdMedium
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Kvika Geothermal Footbath - Steam rises from geothermal activity in iceland.

Kvika Geothermal Footbath

Best Time

Sunset

Stunning ocean views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A small, free geothermal footbath by the ocean, offering warm relaxation and stunning views near Reykjavik.

4.5
(402 reviews)

"Such a peaceful little spot! Kvika Foot Bath might be one of the smallest hot springs in Iceland, but it’s definitely worth the visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

Warm Up Cold Feet

Perfect for warming up after a chilly walk, even your hands can benefit!

Combine with Lighthouse Visit

The nearby Grotta Lighthouse and scenic coastline are worth exploring too.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Geothermal Warmth by the Sea

Geothermal Warmth by the Sea

Seltjarnarnes, near Grotta Lighthouse

Soak your feet in naturally heated water while gazing at the ocean. Pure bliss!

Sunset Serenity

Sunset Serenity

Seltjarnarnes

The perfect spot to unwind as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with color.

Art Meets Nature

Art Meets Nature

Seltjarnarnes

A unique, small-scale art installation offering a moment of natural relaxation.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Chill, Warm Your Soles

Kvika is a small, open-air geothermal footbath. While the water is wonderfully warm (40-45°C), the Icelandic air can be brisk. Dress in layers and be prepared for a refreshing walk to reach this unique spot, especially if you're combining it with a visit to the nearby Grotta Lighthouse. Reddit

Respect the Local Gem

This charming footbath is a beloved local spot. Visitors are encouraged to be quiet and respectful of others enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Remember, it's free, so keeping it clean is a shared responsibility. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Stunning ocean views
Crowd
Medium
When
Chilly days
Why
Ultimate warmth contrast
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Birdsong and calm
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Anyone been to Kvika foot bath in Seltjarnarnes recently? My husband and I went by this evening to check our this spot and the foot bath was cold 😭 any Intel on this appreciated. We leave Tuesday.

Warm Up Cold Feet

Perfect for warming up after a chilly walk, even your hands can benefit! Reddit

Combine with Lighthouse Visit

The nearby Grotta Lighthouse and scenic coastline are worth exploring too. Reddit

reddit.com

Our 23km walk around Reykjavik today; highlight: came across Kvika footbath near Grotta lighthouse.

reddit.com

Kvika footbath near Reykjavik. Soaking our feet in the warm water was very relaxing and the view of the mountains in the distance was beautiful!😍

Keep it Tidy!

This free spot is a local favorite; please help keep it clean. Reddit

Small but Mighty

It's a small footbath, but the warmth is incredibly effective. Reddit

reddit.com

There's a footbath in Reykjavik. Low key one of the better spots

Tips

from all over the internet

Warm Up Cold Feet

Perfect for warming up after a chilly walk, even your hands can benefit! Reddit

Combine with Lighthouse Visit

The nearby Grotta Lighthouse and scenic coastline are worth exploring too. Reddit

Keep it Tidy!

This free spot is a local favorite; please help keep it clean. Reddit

Small but Mighty

It's a small footbath, but the warmth is incredibly effective. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(402 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Kvika Footbath's peaceful atmosphere and stunning ocean views, especially at sunset. It's praised as a unique, free geothermal experience that perfectly warms tired feet after exploring. Some note its small size and the importance of respecting it as a local spot.

"Such a peaceful little spot! Kvika Foot Bath might be one of the smallest hot springs in Iceland, but it’s definitely worth the visit. Located right by the ocean near Grotta Lighthouse in Seltjarnarnes, the views are stunning — especially at sunset. The water is warm and relaxing, perfect after a walk along the coast. It’s a unique blend of art and nature, and a great place to pause and take it all in. Highly recommend making the short trip from Reykjavik!"

Collin Ritsema

"Incredible foot bath, saved my mom after a rainy day since she often has very cold feet. You can also dip your hands and it warms you basically through the whole body.
It's about 30 cm deep and a meter in diameter. My mom joked that she could even fit whole in it. The temperature is around 40° to 45°C so really great and really helps you when you need to warm yourself."

Viki Beňačkova

"Out of the way. You’d almost miss it, even with map help. We stayed about 30min. Really fun."

David Engelson

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Stunning ocean views
Warm geothermal water

What People Dislike

Small size
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kvika Footbath is located in Seltjarnarnes, a short drive or a pleasant walk from central Reykjavik. Many visitors choose to walk, enjoying the coastal scenery along the way, especially if they are heading to the Grotta Lighthouse. Public buses also serve the area. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available near the footbath and the Grotta Lighthouse area, making it accessible for those who drive. Reddit

While it's a small spot, it's well-marked on maps. It's situated right by the ocean, close to the Grotta Lighthouse, making it a scenic destination. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a popular walk from Reykjavik, offering beautiful coastal views. The walk itself is part of the experience for many visitors. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended for the scenic route. Alternatively, local buses can take you to Seltjarnarnes, from where it's a short walk to the footbath. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kvika Footbath is completely free to use! It's a wonderful community amenity that locals and visitors alike can enjoy. Reddit

The footbath is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor geothermal feature. You can visit anytime, though sunset offers particularly beautiful views. Reddit

No booking is required. As it's a free, open-access spot, you can visit whenever you like. Reddit

There are no specific age limits mentioned, but it's a footbath, so it's suitable for all ages to enjoy. Reddit

Bring a towel if you plan to dip your feet, and perhaps a change of socks. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the journey there. Reddit

🎫 💧 Onsite Experience

The footbath is approximately 30 cm (about 1 foot) deep, making it perfect for soaking your feet and lower legs. Reddit

The geothermal water is comfortably warm, typically ranging between 40°C to 45°C (104°F to 113°F), providing a soothing experience. Reddit

It's quite small, about a meter in diameter, designed for a few people to enjoy at a time. Reddit

No, it's specifically a footbath, designed for soaking feet and lower legs, not for swimming. Reddit

It's known for being a peaceful and serene spot, especially appreciated by locals. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The footbath itself, with the ocean and sky as a backdrop, is very photogenic. Sunset offers particularly dramatic lighting. The nearby Grotta Lighthouse and coastline also provide excellent photo ops. Reddit

Yes, sunset at Kvika Footbath is highly recommended for photography due to the stunning ocean views and potential for beautiful light. Reddit

Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. Always check current rules and regulations before flying a drone in any public area. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape and the footbath. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots. Reddit

No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors' privacy and the peaceful nature of the location. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kvika Footbath offers a unique and fun experience for families. While it's a footbath, children can enjoy dipping their feet in the warm geothermal water, providing a delightful contrast to the often cool Icelandic weather. It's a great way to add a memorable stop to your day, especially when combined with a visit to the nearby Grotta Lighthouse. Remember to supervise children closely and ensure they don't get too cold when moving between the footbath and the surrounding area. Reddit

Consider bringing a small towel for drying off and perhaps a change of socks. The walk to Kvika can also be an adventure for kids, with plenty of open space to explore along the coast. It's a low-key, free activity that offers a moment of relaxation and a taste of Iceland's geothermal wonders without requiring a long commitment. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Kvika Footbath is a fantastic free activity for budget-conscious travelers. It offers a genuine Icelandic experience without any cost. You can easily incorporate it into a walking tour of Reykjavik or Seltjarnarnes, saving on transportation expenses. Reddit

Pack your own snacks and water to further minimize costs. The real value here is the stunning natural scenery and the unique geothermal warmth, making it a highly rewarding stop for anyone looking to experience Iceland on a budget. Reddit

❤️ Couples

For couples, Kvika Footbath offers a wonderfully serene and romantic experience, especially during sunset. Imagine soaking your feet together in the warm geothermal water, with the vast ocean stretching before you and the sky painted in vibrant colors. It's an intimate and peaceful setting, perfect for quiet conversation and enjoying each other's company. Reddit

Combine your visit with a leisurely walk along the coast or a stop at the Grotta Lighthouse for a complete romantic outing. It’s a simple yet memorable way to connect and appreciate the natural beauty of Iceland together. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Design of Kvika

Kvika Footbath is more than just a hot spring; it's a small piece of public art. Designed by artist Ólöf Nordal, it's a circular, concrete structure that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape. The water is heated by geothermal energy, a common and sustainable resource in Iceland. Its intimate size and location by the sea create a unique sensory experience, combining the warmth of the water with the cool ocean breeze and panoramic views. Reddit

The footbath's design encourages a moment of pause and reflection. It's a place where art, nature, and human comfort converge. Visitors often remark on the surprisingly effective warmth, noting how it can soothe tired feet and even warm the entire body on a cold day. The simplicity of the structure allows the surrounding environment to take center stage, making each visit a personalized experience. Reddit

Exploring the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula

Kvika Footbath is situated on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, a tranquil area just a short distance from downtown Reykjavik. This location offers a refreshing escape from the city bustle, providing stunning coastal vistas and a chance to connect with nature. The peninsula is also home to the iconic Grotta Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark that's a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying the dramatic Icelandic coastline. Reddit

Beyond the footbath and lighthouse, the peninsula features walking paths that are perfect for leisurely strolls. You might encounter various seabirds, and the views across the bay towards Mount Esja are breathtaking. It's an ideal area for a relaxed afternoon, combining a visit to Kvika with a scenic walk and exploration of the natural beauty that Iceland is famous for. Reddit

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