Paradise in Laugardalur Valley In Reykjavík there is a low lying valley named Laugardalur. Its name is derived from pools of hot spring water in the area that bubble up from deep below the surface. During the time when Reykjavík was but a village, residents would go there to wash clothes, and themselves. The road from “Reykjavík village” that led to this hot spring valley was named Laugavegur, or “road to the hot pools.” Times have changed, and Reykjavík is now a city, and Iceland’s capital. The old Laugavegur road has become the city’s main shopping street, and today Laugardalur Valley is a paradise for outdoor activities. Hot spring water Hot spring water in Laugardalur is well utilized by both residents of Reykjavík and foreign visitors to rejuvenate body and soul. Laugardalslaug is the country’s most popular thermal pool and bath facility, yet the area has much more to offer: various athletic facilities including football fields, athletic stadiums, a skating rink and a tennis and badminton hall. There is also a Petting Zoo where all of Iceland’s indigenous animals can be seen, and botanical as well as other gardens. Laugardalur, the city’s largest and most popular outdoor area is an ideal place to enjoy a wide range of athletic and other healthy outdoor activities. Adventure in Laugardalur A new chapter is beginning in the history of Laugardalur Valley. A modern 18,000m2 health center on three floors is being constructed that when finished will significantly increase Reykjavík’s position as a Spa City. A health spa will cover 5,100m2, where facilities will include an excellent equipment hall, three exercise and gymnastic rooms and rest and relaxation facilities. The pride of the new health spa will be a 500m2 area with saunas and steam rooms of varying temperatures, seawater hot pools, whirlpools, foot pools and even a cold waterfall for bathing. There will also be a relaxation room with heated benches and a hearthside. Various types of massage will also be offered as well as mud treatments. Professionals on staff include a doctor, physiotherapists, masseuses, masseurs, beauticians, hairdressers, nutritionists and pedicurists, along with numerous other staff. Health foods and drinks will be available in the restaurant. The general appeal of this health spa will be its broad variety of services. Guests can simply enjoy swimming in the outdoor pool, or the 50-meter indoor pool, have a physical examination by a doctor and experience various health-spa treatments such as massage or a range of baths, for example a mud bath where the stresses and strains of daily life are purged from body and soul. Afterwards, one can visit the hairdressers, have a facial and/or a pedicure and end the experience with a good, healthy meal made from wholesome, Icelandic ingredients. Together, the entire area will comprise an enchanting interplay of health spa opportunities. And of course Laugardalur Valley as a whole is just an amazing area, both for outdoor leisure activities and athletic training and competition. Tourist paradise Three large hotels and several smaller ones are situated in close proximity to Laugardalur Valley. With the coming of the new health spa the area will have an even greater attraction to foreign visitors, not least during the off season. The health spa will also have meeting rooms and a restaurant, making it an ideal facility for combining work, relaxation and pleasure. The Health Spa in Laugardalur will open on 2 January 2004.