Tucked away among a cluster of pine and birch trees overlooking the Eyjafjörður fjord, just outside the town of Akureyri, is the Forest Lagoon. Since opening in 2022, it has steadily gained a reputation as one of Iceland’s standout geothermal spas, further enhancing the already powerful allure of the country’s far north. Having visited the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths previously – all of which offer totally different experiences – I was very curious to discover how the Forest Lagoon stacks up in comparison to the rest. So, on my most recent Icelandic adventure, I went to find out for myself. Spoiler alert: it might just be the best of the lot. Here’s why…
A masterclass in Icelandic design
The first thing to note about the Forest Lagoon is just how seamlessly it blends into its surroundings, so much so that you can barely notice it until you’re right up close. It’s built into a hillside and surrounded by the Vaðlaskógur forest where, in 2014, geothermal water was accidentally discovered underground while construction was underway for a nearby mountain tunnel. Basalt Architects, who also designed The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, have achieved a unique aesthetic at the Forest Lagoon with its sleek, timber-clad façade that’s very much in harmony with the natural environment.
Despite being just a five-minute drive from downtown Akureyri (the largest town in North Iceland), the Forest Lagoon feels totally immersed in nature. It’s a stark contrast to the rugged volcanic landscapes that surround the Blue Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths and the seaside peninsula setting of the Sky Lagoon. After walking up the forest pathway to the entrance, the woodland theme continues once you step inside, with timber-panelled decor throughout the reception area, the Forest Bistro restaurant and the changing rooms.
Entry costs just over £40 for adults, which is significantly less than the basic package at the Blue Lagoon (around £72, depending on when you go) and Sky Lagoon (around £96), and slightly cheaper than the Myvatn Nature Baths (around £44). There’s just one pricing tier, which gives you access to all of the facilities at the Forest Lagoon for as long as you like. You also receive a wristband which gives access to storage lockers and is used to buy drinks from the swim-up bar, which you pay for when you leave.
Bathing among the trees
The Forest Lagoon looked particularly idyllic when I visited due to the glorious sunshine reflecting on the water, lending it an almost tropical quality. You can step straight into the main infinity-edge pool from the changing area; it’s heated to a comfortable 37°C and has two swim-up bars where you can choose from a selection of cocktails, beers, wines and soft drinks. Although considerably smaller than the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths, it didn’t feel overly crowded or claustrophobic.
If you fancy taking the heat up a notch, there’s a smaller pool at 40°C (which I imagine is especially enticing in winter time) and a Finnish dry sauna at 80°C with a large glass window facing the lagoon. And when you need to cool down, just take a brief dip in the cold plunge pool (around 11°C), which leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated. In the gaps between the trees, the views overlooking the fjord are superb, and at the right time of year, I’m sure this would be a prime spot to watch the Northern Lights.
A couple of hours was ample time to make the most of everything the Forest Lagoon has to offer. It really is a wonderfully serene and relaxing experience – one I’d heartily recommend.
Overall impressions
Perhaps it varies throughout the year, but it was quite noticeable that a fair few Icelandic people were at the Forest Lagoon during my visit. Of course, all of the major geothermal spas in Iceland are popular with tourists, but this did feel that bit more local and low key in comparison to the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths. It’s certainly more intimate and secluded, too, owing to its relatively compact size and tucked-away setting.
Ultimately it comes down to personal preference, but of all the most renowned geothermal spas in Iceland, the Forest Lagoon made the best overall impression – and it’s the one I’d be most inclined to return to in the future.
Top tip: If time and budget allows, also consider making a trip to GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths while you’re in the area. Built into a cliffside overlooking the sea, just outside the town of Husavik (around an hour’s drive from Akureyri), it offers a spectacular saltwater bathing experience with the added possibility of spotting whales in the bay down below.
