Exploring Iceland’s Pool Culture: A Local Tradition of Relaxation and Connection.
Why Pools Are So Important to Icelanders
Pools in Iceland are more than just a place to swim laps or take a quick dip. For Icelanders, pools are places to meet up, relax, exercise, and, in true Icelandic fashion, catch up on the latest community news in the hot tubs. So, whether you’re a toddler or a grandparent, chances are you’re hitting the pool regularly. Families take their babies to pools as early as infancy, and pools remain a beloved activity through all ages.
The pools are vital community hubs. Children grow up with swimming lessons as part of their school curriculum, making it a skill as essential as reading. The importance of swimming is embedded in Icelandic culture and history, stemming from a practical need as much as for pleasure.
History
This rich pool culture has roots in the earliest history of Iceland, with historical records describing hot spring baths used for wellness. In the early 1900s, Iceland faced a real challenge: people couldn’t swim. With dangerous waters along the coast and a high number of fishing accidents, Icelandic communities urgently needed swimming skills. At that time, only 1 in 200 Icelanders could swim, and drowning incidents were far too common. To address this, Icelanders pushed swimming educations and community groups began constructing geothermal pools. By 1940, swimming became a mandatory school subject—and still is.
Pool Etiquette: The Must-Know Rules for Pool-Goers
If you’re planning to visit one of Iceland’s pools, there’s a golden rule you’ll need to follow: you must shower, and yes, it’s in the nude! Icelanders take this rule very seriously, as it’s all about keeping the pools clean and enjoyable for everyone. So, if you’re not comfortable with a pre-swim shower au naturel, the Icelandic pool experience might not be your cup of tea.
Once you’re in the water, the hot tubs become the ultimate gathering spots. This is where the real local conversations happen, from politics to weather predictions. If you’re looking to strike up a conversation with locals or get insider travel tips, head to the hot tub.
A Year-Round Tradition & Pools in the Westfjords.
Come winter’s chill or summer’s midnight sun, Icelanders keep up their pool routines. Some visit daily for their exercise, while others go on weekends or for family outings. And here's the perfect finish: after a refreshing dip, it’s common for Icelanders to grab an ice cream on the way home! Yes, you read that right—ice cream, even in winter
In the Westfjords, we of course have many swimming pools to choose from. Take your pick from this list of local pools and enjoy a dip while exploring one of Iceland’s most scenic regions.
