Kvika Footbath in Reykjavík, Iceland
Kvika Footbath is a hidden little geothermal bath hidden in Seltjarnarnes, about 45 minute walk from downtown Reykjavík. Unlike large geothermal pools, Kvika is an artistic and natural feature combined. The small bath was carved into a rock by a local artist and is fed warm water from a nearby borehole.
Kvika sits under the open air next to the sea. It's open to anyone who passes through and wants to sit back and enjoy the quiet atmosphere with views of the Atlantic and mountain ranges in the backdrop. It's especially peaceful to enjoy the sunset or even the northern lights in winter, while soaking your feet in warm water.
Kvika Footbath Facts & Figures
- Size: 30 cm deep, 90 cm wide.
- Water Source: Fed by a nearby borehole.
- Temperature: Usually around 39°C (102°F).
- Availability: Open and free to everyone who wants a cozy footbath under the sky.
- Design: Created by Icelandic artist Ólöf Nordal in 2005.
- Construction Material: Made of gray granite with a simple, circular design.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but especially enjoyable in the colder months.
- Atmosphere: Quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature.
History
Kvika Footbath is more than just a warm pool for tired feet. It is a public art piece created by Ólöf Nordal, an Icelandic artist known for blending nature with artistic expression. The footbath was built in 2005 as part of a larger effort to integrate natural geothermal energy with public spaces. Its name, “Kvika,” means “magma” in Icelandic, symbolizing Iceland’s deep geothermal activity.
The footbath was strategically placed on the coastline of Seltjarnarnes to allow visitors to enjoy the surrounding nature while benefiting from Iceland’s geothermal energy. Over the years, it has become a favorite spot among locals and tourists seeking a quiet retreat from the city.
In 2005 when Kvika opened to the public with a ceremony at Seltjarnarnes Ólöf said that this artwork references the ancient Icelandic bathing tradition and now anyone can experience the warmth and power of the earth by taking off their socks and shoes and becoming one with nature on the shore. She further explained that by visiting people become a part of a sort of performance art “on the border of urbanization and nature, land and sea, sky and earth.”. She further explained that “With warm feet, the blood flows through the body, physical and spiritual perception grows, sensitivity to the environment awakens, and a connection with the forces of nature is formed.”
The work is made of solid grey granite into which a circular footbath or wading pool has been carved. The pool is illuminated with soft electric light from the inside and is continuously fed with undiluted, pre-cooled geothermal water from the boreholes of Seltjarnarness, which has a unique chemical composition and is believed to have special properties.
Why Visit Kvika
Kvika is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for quirky magical gems hidden within the city.
Kvika Footbath is a little hidden wonder where Iceland's geothermal energy melds with nature and art. Unlike large geothermal pools and crowded hot springs, Kvika offers something low-key — just a simple warm footbath with a ringside seat to the Atlantic Ocean. Situated along the Seltjarnarnes coast, it's the perfect location to sit, soak your feet, and take in the scenery. On a clear day, Mount Esja rises in the distance. The warm water, naturally heated by the earth, is especially appreciated after a lengthy coastal hike, so it makes a fantastic stop for anyone visiting the area.
What makes Kvika unique is the way it blends into the surroundings. Designed by artist Ólöf Nordal, the circular concrete pool is understated yet symbolic, reflecting the power of Iceland’s geothermal activity beneath the earth. There is no fee to enter, so it’s one of the few places where anyone can soak in Iceland’s natural hot water for free. Whether you live there and need a hidden escape or are a traveler wanting a different kind of geothermal experience, Kvika offers a special moment of peace by the sea. The surroundings only enhance its charm. Seltjarnarnes is a peaceful coastal suburb, popular with runners, cyclists, and birdwatchers. The footbath is especially inviting during the winter when the hot water is an even bigger contrast with the chilly air, making it even more relaxing. During the evening, Kvika is one of the best places in Reykjavík to see the sky go orange and pink over the ocean. In the winter, it’s a tranquil and beautiful place to see the northern lights swirl across the water.
Where is Kvika Located?
Kvika Footbath is located on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, just west of downtown Reykjavík. The footbath sits at Kisuklappir in the beach by Norðurströnd. It's situated along a walking path that leads to Grótta Lighthouse, another popular spot in the area.
GPS Coordinates: 64°09'44.6"N 22°00'29.8"W
How to Get to Kvika Footbath
Reaching Kvika Footbath is straightforward, whether traveling on foot, by bike, car, or public transportation. For those walking from downtown Reykjavík, your walk begins at Harpa Concert Hall, following the street Mýrargata past the Saga Museum and along Ánanaust towards Eiðsgrandi observation deck. From there it's about a 40 minute walk to Kvika Footbath along the shoreline.
Cyclists can take advantage of Reykjavík’s extensive biking routes, following the same coastal path towards Grótta Lighthouse. Renting a bike in downtown Reykjavík and riding to Kvika takes roughly 20 minutes, a quicker yet still scenic alternative to walking.
Public transportation is also a convenient option. Bus number 11 and 13 depart from Hlemmur Bus Station and travels towards Seltjarnarnes. Some walking is required as the buses do not stop directly at the beach. Still a good choice for those preferring a shorter journey without relying on a private vehicle.
For visitors arriving by car, the route from downtown Reykjavík follows Eiðisgrandi street and Norðurströnd street westward, continuing towards Seltjarnarnes and Grótta Lighthouse. Parking is available near the Grótta area, from where it is a short five-minute walk to the footbath.
Whether you're walking, biking or driving back it's worth to consider taking a detour of the south side of the peninsula towards Ægissíða street. Also a beautiful seaside path worth exploring.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
While visiting Kvika Footbath, there are several other attractions nearby worth exploring.
Hákarlaskúrinn / The Shark Shed
Only a few meters from Kvika Footbath will you find the Shark Shed. A lowkey local shed built in 1954 by three friends Vilhjálmur H. Vilhjálmsson, Garðar Guðmundsson, and Gunnar Friðriksson. The friends dried fish and cured shark meat in the shed, an ancient tradition still very much alive and well to this day. Both products can be purchased at most local supermarkets or taste tested at Kolaportið market in downtown Reykjavík.
This small, lonely shed is popular amongst photographers, both local and visiting.
Distance from Kvika Footbath: 5 meters / 16 feet
Grótta Lighthouse
Grótta Lighthouse is one of the most scenic spots in Reykjavík and sits on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, which becomes accessible during low tide. It is an excellent place for birdwatching, as the surrounding area is a protected nature reserve, home to various seabirds. Visitors can also witness breathtaking sunsets and, during winter, the northern lights with little interference from artificial light.
Distance from Kvika Footbath: 900 meters / 0.6 miles
Seltjarnarlaug Swimming Pool
Seltjarnarlaug Swimming Pool offers a relaxing alternative to natural hot springs. This local geothermal pool features hot tubs, a sauna, and steam baths, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors looking for a more structured bathing experience. With fewer crowds than the larger pools in Reykjavík, Seltjarnarlaug provides a more tranquil setting for soaking in warm geothermal waters.
Distance from Kvika Footbath: 2.3 km / 1.4 miles
Old Harbor
The Old Harbor in Reykjavík is a lively district filled with restaurants, cafés, and tour operators. It is the departure point for many whale-watching and puffin-spotting tours, making it an ideal destination for those interested in marine wildlife. The area also boasts excellent seafood restaurants and cultural attractions, including the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, where visitors can learn about Iceland’s rich seafaring history.
Distance from Kvika Footbath: 4 km / 2.5 miles
Can You See the Northern Lights from Kvika Footbath?
Kvika Footbath is one of the better places within the city to view the northern lights in winter. The area has lower light pollution as it sits on the edge of the municipality of Seltjarnarnes next to the sea. An even better option is area around Grótta Lighthouse that is even further away from the city lights, on the very edge of the peninsula. On frosty clear winter nights, the northern lights can be seen from this area.
Sources
- Seltjarnarnes Municipality. (n.d.). Nýtt útilistaverk: Vigt á Seltjarnarnesi. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from Nýtt útilistaverk vígt á Seltjarnarnesi
