For many, a trip to Iceland includes at least one trip to a geothermal pool, hot pot, or spa. One of the first questions visitors may have about these experiences is whether they are expected to be nude in Iceland. Being naked in Iceland isn’t a taboo, but it’s vital to know when and where it is acceptable and even expected.
Whether you’re not used to stripping down in front of strangers or you have body image concerns, it can be helpful to prepare yourself for the possibility of experiencing nudity in Iceland. Let’s explore Iceland nude etiquette:
The Evolution of Nudity in Iceland
Being nude in Iceland dates all the way back to the first settlers. Vikings typically had no issues being naked around each other and often bathed in communal bathing areas. When the country was Christianized, modesty and privacy became more important.
When geothermal pools began to gain popularity in Icelandic culture, the more casual approach to nudity returned. While being naked in the streets is frowned upon, Icelanders are quite used to stripping down before swimming in local pools, whether they go alone or are enjoying pool time with friends or family members.
Iceland’s Swimming Pool Culture
With all the natural geothermal pools around, it’s no wonder that the swimming pool culture in Iceland is strong. From a young age, children are introduced to the pools, first with their parents and then with school swimming lessons. These experiences include showering naked with their peers. Both hot pots and cold plunges have become a significant part of Icelandic culture.
Bathing Protocol Before Enjoying Hot Springs
Whether you’re visiting the Blue Lagoon or another of Iceland’s famous hot springs or even a small, remote hot pot, there is an expectation for visitors to be clean. This means bathing naked without your swimming suit prior to entry. While many of the tourist spas and hot springs now have cubicles for showering, if you visit the local pools, you will likely only find communal showers.
Regardless of the setup, you are expected to shower property before entry. Iceland’s swimming pools and geothermal baths use little if any chemicals. Washing immediately before keeps them clean and provides a comfortable environment with those who are sensitive to the chemicals. It’s a matter of respect for the people and culture.
Do I Have to Be Naked in Iceland?
If you intend to swim in the pools, it is expected that you will shower nude. If a shower guard or Icelander notices you have not done so properly, you can expect to be talked to and requested to shower properly. There are signs in the locker rooms with illustrations and instructions in several languages indicating what is expected. The good news is, no one is looking unless you don’t act appropriately!
Can I Be Nude at the Spas?
Although you are expected to shower naked, you are not expected to enter the spas or geothermal baths without a bathing suit. In fact, if you plan to go to Blue Lagoon in Iceland as a nudist or any of the other paid spas, you’re out of luck. These facilities require a bathing suit. The type of suit doesn’t matter as long as it is proper swimwear, from bikinis to burkinis.
However, it is worth noting that Icelandic equality laws mean that what goes for men applies to women as well. This means that women are allowed to be topless since men aren’t required to wear a top in swimming pools. Keep in mind that most women will wear a top, and if you choose not to, you may be the only one.
What About Remote Hot Pots?
There are no official nude hot springs in Iceland, but remote hot pots open the possbility. This is great news for the nudists in the crowd! If you plan to visit some of the remote hot pots that generally have no one around, you are free to enjoy them swimwear-free if you choose. However, it’s important to be discreet and respectful of those around you.
If you visit a hot pot and have it all to yourself, you are free to enter as you wish. However, if others are present, it’s best to put on your swimwear and enjoy. You can certainly ask if they are ok with you using the pool in the buff, but respect their wishes and wait for them to leave if you want to bare it all.
In more crowded areas, you will be expected to wear a swimsuit out of respect for other visitors. Remember, not all cultures are as used to nudity as others.
Are There Nude Beaches?
You can find nude beaches in many parts of the world, so you may wonder if there are any iceland nude beaches. The answer is no, there is no official nude beach in Iceland. The lack of nude beaches is partially due to the country’s cold, unfavorable climate, but it simply hasn’t become a primary attraction.
Again, if you visit a beach where it is safe to swim (many of Iceland’s beaches are not safe for this activity), you are free to enter the water naked if you wish, as long as no one else is around.
What Do I Do If I’m Not Comfortable?
While being nude in Iceland is expected when preparing to enter a geothermal pool or spa, not everyone is entirely comfortable with being naked among strangers. For these individuals, many of the tourist lagoons, like Blue Lagoon, have implemented private showering cubicles. Most of them offer this option at no cost, but some charge a premium for private changing and showering facilities.
It’s important to note that many of the public pools found in towns throughout the country, private showering options are less common. If you want to partake in one of these pools and embrace the Icelandic culture, be sure to ask before paying for entry whether they have a curtained shower to use. All in all, remember that no one is looking or cares what you look like.
Nudity in Other Aspects of Iceland
While most people associate being nude in Iceland to the swimming pool culture, there are other instances where you may encounter nudity during your trip. Music and art in Iceland can sometimes contain elements of nudity. It also plays ar ole in some folk stories from the age of the Norse religion.
Perhaps the most well-known instance of nudity in Iceland is the Phallological Museum in Reykjavik. This museum is filled with specimens from numerous species and can be an interesting and entertaining option for those who dare.
Enjoy Your Trip, With or Without Nudity
Whether you overcome your discomfort and embrace being nude in Iceland or you choose private options or even decide not to partake, you can enjoy an unforgettable trip through the beautiful country. It is well worth the experience, however!
If you want to find a secluded hot pot to take a dip with or without your swimsuit, book the best campervan for your journey.
