Imagine reconnecting with nature in the soothing waters of a geothermal spa. Visit Forest Lagoon in Iceland, and you can do just that. Nestled among birch and pine trees in Vaðlaskógur forest, the lagoon is a sheltered oasis in a rugged volcanic landscape.
The spa has 2 infinity pools, a Finnish sauna, and a plunge pool. There’s also a laid-back bistro and 2 swim-up bars. Plus, with views over one of Iceland's longest fjords, it’s perfect for a peaceful retreat in North Iceland.
Read on to find out why you should visit Forest Lagoon, and discover 5 other places to go in the region. We’ve also got you covered with information on how to get there, tips on spa etiquette, and more.
- Indulge in a spot of R&R at Forest Lagoon on a North Iceland tour
6 Reasons to visit Forest Lagoon geothermal spa
With so many other hot springs and geothermal pools in Iceland, why should you check out this one? Keep reading to uncover what makes a Forest Lagoon experience in North Iceland memorable.
1. You can relax surrounded by Icelandic forest
While all of Iceland’s hot springs are relaxing, you could argue that Forest Lagoon takes things to the next level.
But how? Well, it’s the only spa in the country surrounded by trees. This means you can combine the calming effects of soaking in warm water with the health benefits of being in woodland.
Thanks to research into a Japanese practice called shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing”, we know that spending time among trees boosts well-being. Although shinrin-yoku doesn’t involve actual bathing, it centres around the concept that forests can be restorative.
So prepare to enter a whole new world of tranquillity at Forest Lagoon.
Fun fact: Vaðlaskógur, where you’ll find Forest Lagoon, is the country’s largest birch forest.
- Check out these relaxing spa breaks in Iceland
- Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions
2. There are 2 infinity pools with swim-up bars
It’s not just Forest Lagoon’s serene setting you’ll love – the facilities here are world-class. You can even swim straight into the lagoon from indoors. This is perfect for crisp winter days when you might not want more than your head out of the warm water.
The largest of the infinity pools is 530 square metres (5,705 square feet). It is heated to 37°C (99°F) and has 2 swim-up bars serving drinks and smoothies.
There’s also a 53-square metre (570-square foot) infinity pool, which is kept at 40°C (104°F). For an invigorating post-sauna dip, look to the cold pool. Though, at 11°C (52°F), it’s not for the fainted-hearted.
3. Stunning fjord views
The spa’s location on the shores of Eyjafjörður means you can soak up beautiful fjord and mountain views while you unwind.
Travel between June and August to time your spa experience with the midnight sun. This way, you can enjoy the scenery and the sun’s golden glow late into the evening. Summer is also a great time of year for spotting whales. You might even be lucky enough to spot a humpback swimming by.
Darkness arrives earlier in winter, but the night sky is the best canvas for the northern lights. Thanks to the spa’s late opening hours, you could watch the aurora swirl across starry skies while immersed in the comforting hot waters.
- Explore the Land of Fire and Ice year-round on an Iceland summer or winter tour
- Related: Whale watching in Iceland – Your complete guide
4. It’s a hidden gem
Iceland is brimming with geothermal pools and natural hot springs. While some are world-famous, others stay under the radar. Forest Lagoon is one of these less-visited gems thanks to its northern location. All the better for you, especially if you’re after peace and quiet.
That said, you might still be wondering how Forest Lagoon in Akureyri compares to the renowned Blue Lagoon on the Reykjanes peninsula.
One of the main differences is the water. Blue Lagoon is silica-rich, which makes the water a milky-blue colour. Meanwhile, the pools at Forest Lagoon are crystal clear because the spring water is filtered as it flows through the basalt rock of Vaðlaheiði mountain.
Another difference is that the Blue Lagoon is set among expansive lava fields. While impressive, they don’t have the same calming influence as the birch and pine trees surrounding Forest Lagoon.
Top tip: Forest Lagoon isn’t the only spa worth visiting in North Iceland. You could also check out Mývatn Nature Baths and Geosea.
5. Experience the benefits of a Finnish sauna
A visit to Forest Lagoon isn’t just about the warm embrace of natural spring water.
For an extra dose of revitalisation, don’t miss the spa’s Finnish or dry sauna, complete with fjord and mountain views. Afterwards, why not cool off with a rejuvenating dip in the cold tub?
Keep in mind that, unlike some places in Europe, you should keep your swimwear on in the sauna.
6. Delicious dining at Forest Bistro
After your spa experience, emerge refreshed and ready to dine at Forest Bistro. The soothing atmosphere doesn’t end when you get out of the water.
Wood cladding brings the calm of the forest into the restaurant. In summer, outdoor seating offers sweeping views of Eyjafjörður. And, in winter, stay cosy indoors beside the wood-burning stove.
Depending on when you time your visit, you can enjoy brunch or a light evening meal. There are dishes to suit vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free dietary requirements.
Top tip: We recommend making a reservation beforehand. The kitchen serves brunch from 11 AM to 3 PM and evening meals from 4 PM to 8 PM.
How was the hot spring at Forest Lagoon discovered?
The spa may never have existed had it not been for a surprise discovery made in 2015. While drilling through Vaðlaheiði mountain to build a tunnel, construction workers came across a geothermal spring.
Bad news for the tunnel, but good news if you’re a spa-lover! The flow was diverted, and Basalt Architects – designers of the Blue Lagoon – were enlisted to make the most of the natural hot springs.
The result? A geothermal spa that blends seamlessly with its forest surroundings.
How to get to Forest Lagoon?
You’ll find Forest Lagoon in North Iceland, around a 5-minute drive from Akureyri. If you’d prefer not to drive, hop on the Forest Lagoon shuttle bus. During summer, there are regular departures from Hof Menningarhús in the town centre.
If you’re exploring South Iceland before heading north, it’s a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík via West Iceland. So, we suggest splitting your journey up over a few days.
You could also visit Forest Lagoon on a tour of Iceland’s iconic Ring Road. This will let you check out natural attractions like Reynisfjara, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Deildartunguhver.
Alternatively, take an internal flight from Keflavík International Airport, and you could be in Akureyri in about 45 minutes. Depending on the time of year, you can fly directly to Akureyri from European cities, including Amsterdam, London and Zürich.
What’s the etiquette at Forest Lagoon?
As with spas all over the country, showering before putting on your swimwear and getting into the pool is a must. In Iceland, it’s common to change and shower communally, but Forest Lagoon also has some private cubicles.
The lagoon has male and female changing rooms and showers. While there’s no specific gender-neutral changing area, you can book the private disabled changing room.
Changing facilities include showers, lockers, hair dryers, and toiletries like shower gel and shampoo. You’ll get a waterproof wristband to access your locker. You can also use this to pay for drinks at the swim-up bars.
How much does Forest Lagoon cost?
Expect to pay the full entry fee for adults and around half for children aged 5–15 years. Children under 5 years get in for free. There’s also a discount for seniors (over 67 years old) and adults with disabilities.
Head to the Forest Lagoon website to book your time slot and see up-to-date prices. While you don’t have to pre-book your visit to Forest Lagoon, we highly recommend reserving your place beforehand.
It’s also worth mentioning that towel hire at Forest Lagoon is about 900 ISK. Be prepared for the small extra cost, or pack your own.
5 Things to do near Forest Lagoon
Once you’ve visited the Forest Lagoon, there’s still plenty to do in North Iceland. Check out this round-up of places to go in and around Akureyri, Iceland’s “Capital of the North”.
1. Akureyri Old Town
Take a stroll along Hafnarstræti, Akureyri's historic main street. Here, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cosy cafés.
Outside the Old Town, you could check out attractions such as Akureyrarkirkja, the Christmas Garden, and the Icelandic Folk Art Museum.
2. Akureyri Botanic Garden
The Akureyri Botanic Gardens (“Lystigarðurinn” in Icelandic) are open from June to September and are the northernmost in the world. Head here to marvel at over 6,000 plant species.
3. Goðafoss
Also called the “Waterfall of the Gods”, Goðafoss is a must-see spot in North Iceland.
These majestic falls are steeped in local legends. They even make an appearance in the Icelandic Sagas. It’s said that after converting to Christianity in the year 1000, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan statues into the waterfall.
4. Lake Mývatn
Drive 1-hour east of Akureyri, and you’ll come to Lake Mývatn. Created by a volcano eruption over 2,000 years ago, the lake comes alive with birdlife in summer.
The surrounding area of Dimmuborgir is also worth exploring. Expect a rugged landscape dominated by otherworldly volcanic formations.
5. Húsavík
At first glance, Húsavík might seem like an unassuming fishing village. But this is one of the best places in the country for a wildlife-watching boat trip. It’s even known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
What’s more, at just an hour's drive northeast of Akureyri, you can easily take a day trip to Húsavík.
- Uncover more top attractions on these popular Iceland tours
- Related: Driving Iceland’s Diamond Circle – All you need to know
Experience Forest Lagoon with Nordic Visitor
If Forest Lagoon is the spa experience you’ve been dreaming about, it’s time to plan your escape to North Iceland. For a seamless getaway, book your tour of Iceland with Nordic Visitor.
A Reykjavík-based travel expert will use their insider knowledge to organise your trip, including accommodation, local transport and any optional excursions. You’ll also get a detailed personal itinerary and a hand-marked route map with suggested attractions.
All you need to do is decide how you’d like to discover Iceland. For the freedom to go at your pace, choose a self-drive trip. Or learn from a local guide on a small group package. You can also explore Iceland with a knowledgeable guide on these privately guided tours.
Get in touch with us to start planning your adventure in North Iceland and beyond.
