Reykholar Seaweed Baths

Reykholar sits on the shore of Breidafjordur where the tidal flats grow large quantities of seaweed, and the village's main business is harvesting and drying it for export. The baths use the same material: tubs of hot sea water with seaweed in them, taken warm, which leaves the skin coated in the plant's oils. There is also a geothermal swimming pool. The practice draws on a long local relationship with the resource rather than being imported wholesale, and the operation is small and seasonal. The tidal flats around are among the richest bird ground in the country.

The main sights

• Seaweed in hot sea water - the treatment itself.
• A village built on kelp - harvesting and drying for export.
• A geothermal pool alongside - the ordinary village swimming pool.
• Rich tidal flats - bird ground on Breidafjordur.

When to go

May to September; opening is seasonal and limited. Two hours.

Practical notes

This is a small local operation, not a resort spa, and hours are short. Booking ahead is sensible. The seaweed leaves an oily film that some people dislike. Reykholar is a detour off the main Westfjords route.

Nearby

Breidafjordur is in front; Holmavik and Strandir are north.