Forest Lagoon: Spa in the Birch Woods Near Akureyri

Infinity-pool spa set among birch trees, with views over Eyjafjörður fjord and a swim-up bar.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy
Location
Near Akureyri
North Iceland • Opened 2022
Forest Lagoon (Skógarböð) opened in 2022 on a forested hillside near Akureyri. Its infinity pools sit among birch and pine trees and look out over Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. A swim-up bar and multi-level pool design make it unlike any other spa in Iceland.
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Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

Book online in advance. Minimum age 10 years.

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Setting
Forest + fjord

Among birch trees overlooking Eyjafjörður

Feature
Swim-up bar

Drinks served while soaking in warm water

Distance
10 min

From Akureyri town center

What to Expect

Infinity Pools at 38-40°C

Multi-level geothermal pools heated to 38-40°C with an infinity edge overlooking Eyjafjörður fjord

Birch & Pine Forest Setting

Native birch and planted pine trees surround the sheltered bathing area, a woodland setting unusual for Iceland

Swim-Up Bar

Order craft cocktails, Icelandic beer, and hot chocolate from the in-water bar without leaving the warm pool

Cold Plunge Pool at 5°C

A dedicated cold tub at approximately 5°C for traditional Nordic contrast bathing between warm soaks

Towels & Amenities Included

Admission includes towel, changing facilities with showers, and lockers. Bring your own swimsuit or rent on site

Minimum Age 10+

A relaxation-focused spa. Children under 10 are not permitted

Getting There

Forest Lagoon is at Vaðlaskógur, approximately 7 km south of Akureyri town center (10 minutes by car). From Akureyri, drive south on Route 1 and follow signs toward the forest area. A free parking lot accommodating roughly 80 cars is available at the facility. From Reykjavík, the drive is approximately 390 km (4.5 hours) via Route 1. The Akureyri airport is 15 minutes away; domestic flights from Reykjavík take about 45 minutes.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. November through February: snow on the trees and strong northern lights potential. March through May: spring light returns and crowds are thinner than in summer. June through August: midnight sun brings 24-hour daylight and warm evenings over the fjord. September through October: the birch forest turns gold. Weekday mornings (before 11 AM) see the smallest crowds in any season.

Pricing

Standard admission starts at approximately 6,990 ISK (~$50 USD) for adults. Premium packages including bathrobes and premium changing facilities are available from around 9,990 ISK (~$72 USD). Children aged 10-15 receive a discounted rate. Prices may vary seasonally; check the official Forest Lagoon website for current rates. Online pre-booking is required.

Planning help

Forest Lagoon FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.