Woodland Wonder…Forest Lagoon Review

Have you ever heard the expression….the forest is for rest? If you’re visiting Akureyri in stunning northern Iceland and find yourself in need of a little serenity, you must visit the Forest Lagoon. Perched at the edge of a forest and overlooking Eyjafjordur fjord, the Icelandic tradition of communal bathing dating back to the 12th century lives on at the Forest Lagoon with the perfect mix of modern luxury in the heart of nature. Our family was lucky enough to spend an afternoon here and I’m sharing my experience below.

Overview & Amenities of Forest Lagoon

Debuting in 2022, the Forest Lagoon is just a short five minute drive from Akureyri and is located off the famous Icelandic Route 1 Ring Road. The geothermal waters originate in the Vatnaskógur forest and are known for their healing qualities (side note: these springs were accidentally discovered during a recent tunnel expansion project). Nestled in a woodland setting full of native birch trees and pine trees, the infinity pool views include Eyjafjordur fjord, the charming town of Akureyri, and the serene, snow capped mountains in the distance. Other spa amenities include: a hot pool (warmer temps than the infinity pool), cold plunge pool (shock your system and reap the improved circulation and anti-inflammatory benefits) and a sauna with a gorgeous view.

The Forest Lagoon offers two swim up bars that serve a variety of non alcoholic and alcoholic beverages–everything from smoothies, sodas, beer, wine and other cocktails. You’ll make any purchases with your wrist band (more on that later and given at check in) and can then wind your way to one of the tables and various underwater benches to relax and enjoy your beverage. You can also ask for a glass or bring your own water bottle and fill up at the natural tap fountain bubbling cold Icelandic water into the lagoon.

Post lagoon time, be sure to enjoy a meal at their cozy Forest Bistro. Offering indoor and outdoor seating with a fireplace and lovely views of the surrounding area, their menu offers an assortment of breakfast items, salads, and soups, all locally sourced.

What To Pack & Expect When Visiting

Other than a swimsuit and a waterproof phone case, I recommend packing a towel, although towels, robes and even a swimsuit are available for rent if you prefer to pack light. Once you check-in, you’ll be given a wrist band that a credit card can be linked to if you’d like to purchase a beverage at the swim up bars. You will then be directed to their changing area and along the way, you’ll walk past a weeping rock wall that frames the back of the building and is literally part of the mountainside.

Iceland takes cleanliness to the next level and you’ll leave your shoes outside of the changing area. In here you’ll find lockers, showers, lotion, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and hair dryers. Full body showers without a swimsuit are also required prior to entering the lagoon. Bring your swimsuit into the showers as reentering the changing area with wet feet is frowned upon. I’ll admit this was a little bit of a process to get used to, but I appreciated how clean everything was. Your wrist band will also unlock your locker which makes it convenient to not have to remember a code or carry a key.

The setting and variety of pools and temperatures made this an ideal way to spend some time in the charming town of Akuyeri and if you’re someone who appreciates a good soak in nature, then you’ll also enjoy the Forest Lagoon.

Ready to Plan Your Iceland Vacation?

Are you ready to start planning your Iceland vacation? In addition to seeing waterfalls, hiking glaciers and whale watching, there are several other geothermal lagoons located throughout Iceland. Spending time in nature and enjoying a soak is part of the culture in the land of fire and ice and if you’re flying into Reykjavik, you must also visit the stunning waters of Sky Lagoon and you can read more about my experience here. I am an Certified Travel Advisor and would love to work with you. Reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here.