Geothermally heated water is a big thing in Iceland. And harnessing this natural resource is something Icelanders are very good at. You’ve probably heard of Blue Lagoon in the South West, but there are many other locations around the country where you can gently poach yourself in therapeutic, warm waters. This guide reveals why you should head north to find some of Iceland’s newest and most exciting hotspots for geothermal bathing and indulgent spas. From the well-established Earth Lagoon to the brand new Forest Lagoon, we showcased five you’ll not want to miss.
Earth Lagoon
BEST FOR: Lagoon lounging on the Diamond Circle
Imagine sinking into the warm, milky-blue waters of an open-air lagoon barely 100km south of the Arctic Circle… Earth Lagoon draw geothermal water from depths of up to 2,500m, which is then fed into a spectacular landscaped pool at a woozy 36-40oC. The chemical composition of the water means there’s no need for chlorine or other artificial disinfectants. Naturally occurring sulphur in geothermal water is thought to have a positive effect on asthma and other respiratory conditions, while trace elements and minerals are believed to be good for your skin. The lagoon offers wonderful views over the breathtaking volcanic landscape around Lake Myvatn. Even the steam bath rooms have windows with a view.
Take me there: Earth Lagoon are about an hour’s drive east of Akureyri and make a relaxing stop while touring the Diamond Circle.
Best holiday choice: Our 7-night Northern Highlights itinerary links Akureyri with the East Fjords, visiting Lake Myvatn and Husavik (for whale watching) along the way.
Forest Lagoon
BEST FOR: Simultaneous geothermal and forest bathing
This exciting new geothermal spa is due to open in 2022. Tucked into the Vadlaskogur Forest and overlooking the sheltered waters of Eyjafjordur, the 1,300 square-metre complex is only 3km from the centre of Akureyri. To find a forest in Iceland is unusual enough, but to be able to swim in an infinity pool surrounded by birch, pine and fir trees is unique! The Forest Lagoon actually boasts two infinity pools (with swim-up bars) as well as a sauna and invigorating cold tub. The brainchild of the designers behind Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and Geosea (see below), the spa blends with its surroundings, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in both the forest and soothing geothermal waters.
Take me there: Forest Lagoon is only a 25-minute walk from the centre of Akureyri – and an easy drive or taxi ride away.
Best holiday choice: Our 10-night National Parks and Natural Wonders self-drive links Akureyri and Reykjavik, via the East Fjords and South Coast. You can also now fly direct from the UK to Akureyri if you fancy a tailor-made short break based in the city, with a visit to the Forest Lagoon and excursions to Lake Myvatn, Husavik and other North Iceland highlights.
Geosea
BEST FOR: Geothermal soaking with a view of the sea
When it comes to ‘pools with panoramic views’ Geosea is hard to beat. Perched on cliffs near Husavik, overlooking the broad expanse of Skjalfandi Bay on the north coast of Iceland, the geothermally heated sea baths face west – perfect for watching the midnight sun slide towards the horizon during mid-summer. You might even glimpse whales or dolphins in the sea below. Winter, meanwhile, brings the tantalizing prospect of floating in 39°C, mineral-rich waters while gazing up at the northern lights. If that doesn’t relax you, nothing will! Geosea’s facilities also include a swim-up bar, steam room and dining terrace. The baths are as popular with locals as visitors, so expect to immerse yourself in Iceland’s long tradition of geothermal bathing.
Take me there: Geosea is located on the northern edge of the whale-watching town of Husavik, about an hour’s drive from Akureyri.
Best holiday choice: As the whale watching capital of Iceland, Husavik features in several of our holidays, including the 14-night Around Iceland – a classic self-drive odyssey on the country’s ring road – and the Arctic Coast Way, available as either a summer or winter self-drive.
Bjorbodin Beer Spa
BEST FOR: Those who believe in beer – or yearn for yeast
From Akureyri a road skirts the western shore of 70km-long Eyjafjordur, linking several villages, some great hiking spots and – quirky even by Icelandic standards – the new Bjorbodin Beer Spa where you can relax in a large wooden tub filled with ‘young’ non-alcoholic beer. The live yeast has a powerful cleansing and health effect, while the drinkable beer (on tap next to your tub) helps you relax even further. The spa ritual involves 25 minutes soaking in beer, water, hops and yeast, followed by another 25 minutes in a relaxation room. There are seven bath tubs in total, made from Kambala wood and accommodating up to two people.
Take me there: The Bjorbodin Beer Spa can be found at Árskógssandur, 30 minutes’ drive north of Akureyri.
Best holiday choice: Choose any of our North Iceland itineraries, including the 11-night Arctic Coast Way – North Coast Highlights. There’s also a 7-night winter version available.
Hot Tubs Hauganes
BEST FOR: Those who like simplicity
Just south of the Beer Spa (above) on the western shore of Eyjafjordur, you’ll find the tiny fishing village of Hauganes where a trio of small hot tubs sits above a black-sand beach with fabulous views across the fjord and surrounding mountains. Warm year-round and open every day from 09:00–22:00, the hot tubs are – you guessed it – filled with local, natural geothermal water. After enjoying a relaxing soak, head to the Baccala Bar where the catch of the day comes straight from the harbour. Whale watching tours are also available here.
Take me there: Hauganes is 34km north of Akureyri and around 48km southeast of Siglufjordur.
Best holiday choice: Any one of our North Iceland itineraries could be adapted to include a visit to Hauganes, but for a short break consider our 4-night Adventure in North Iceland offering two nights in Myvatn and two nights in Siglufjordur.
Feeling inspired?
If you have any questions or want to start planning your trip to North Iceland, call us on 01737 214 250, or send an enquiry to our travel specialists to start discussing your options – including a tailormade itinerary to suit your timeframe and interests.