There is having a swim, and then there is having a dip in a deserted pool nestled in one of Iceland's most picturesque valleys.
The hidden pool of Seljavallalaug is one of Iceland’s best kept secrets, and is filled with hot spring water which trickles down from Eyjafjallajökull, which consists of a volcano completely covered by an ice cap.
Built at the beginning of the 20th century to teach locals how to swim, the tranquil pool is now a protected site, and is free for adventurers to find and experience.
To find this mysterious pool, swimmers have to weave through the mountains down an uneven track that appears to lead to nowhere.
However at the base of the valley, near Seljavellir, visitors will stumble upon the 82ft pool, which comes complete with its own changing facilities
The turquoise haven varies in colour throughout the year, and a dedicated team of volunteers are on hand to keep it clean from volcanic ash, and to clear ice from the surface after winter.
Most visitors claim that the waters are not only safe to swim in, but are actually really good for the skin too.
When it was first constructed in 1923, the purpose of the secret pool was to teach Icelanders how to swim, a vital skill considering many of the lived off fishing.
Nowadays Icelanders cannot graduate school without first passing a swim test, and Seljavallalaug is reserved for plucky explorers who are intent on finding the secret pool.
Due to volcanic eruptions in 2010, the pool was temporarily out of action due to ash deposits.
Thankfully this was cleared away using loaders and extractors, and explorers could once again venture to Seljavallalaug for a dip.
(dailymail.co.uk)
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