Blesi, Geothermal pool in Haukadalur Valley, Iceland.
Blesi is a geothermal pool in Haukadalur Valley consisting of two connected basins separated by a land strip. The southern basin holds boiling water that appears clear, while the northern basin displays a vivid blue color.
During the last century, travelers relied on the brook flowing from Blesi for bathing and washing clothes. The water flow decreased significantly over time and now runs at minimal levels.
The name Blesi comes from an Icelandic word meaning blaze, referring to the thermal power of this geothermal formation in the volcanic landscape. Visitors today can see how the two basins shape the immediate surroundings and feel the intense heat radiating from the southern source.
The northern basin maintains a temperature around 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) because its natural water source has disappeared. The southern basin with boiling water is much hotter and requires caution when approaching.
The northern basin exhibits an intense blue color created by dissolved silica suspended in the water. This striking color difference makes the two pools visually distinct despite their close proximity to each other.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.