Laugardalslaug (Pool of Laugardalur), Reykjavik (must see)

The Pool of Laugardalur (Laugardalslaug) is a publicly accessible thermal baths and swimming pool complex situated in the Laugardalur district of Reykjavík. This facility boasts a variety of amenities, including an indoor Olympic-sized swimming pool, a 50-meter outdoor swimming pool, a 400 square meter play pool, eight hot tubs with varying temperatures, and a 17 square meter steam bath. It holds the distinction of being the largest traditional swimming pool complex in Iceland.

In the year 2010, Laugardalslaug welcomed approximately 800,000 visitors, making it the second most popular thermal baths destination in Iceland, after the renowned Blue Lagoon. The ownership of these baths rests with the City of Reykjavík, and they are managed by the Department of Sport and Leisure within the municipal government.

The construction of this complex took place in two phases, with the initial construction taking place between 1958 and 1968, under the guidance of city architect Einar Sveinsson. Subsequently, it underwent expansion in two further stages: first from 1981 to 1986, under the architectural supervision of Jes Einar Þorsteinsson, and then again from 2002 to 2005.

The natural hot springs in the Laugardalur area have a historical significance, as they were mentioned by Þorkell Arngrímsson Vídalín in 1672. In 1772, Uno von Troil, the Archbishop of Uppsala, visited these springs during his journey to Iceland and recorded a water temperature of 89.4°C.