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.

Updated September 10, 2026Published by Iceland.orgWriting & review
Location
Near Akureyri
North Iceland • Opened 2022

Quick Answer

Forest Lagoon sits in the Vaðlaskógur birch wood 10 minutes from Akureyri, with warm pools overlooking Eyjafjörður and a swim-up bar. Booking and visit notes.

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.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10

Book online in advance. Minimum age 10 years.

For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.

Official sources to check
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+

Children are admitted: ages 6–12 cost 3,790 ISK and ages 5 and under are free, with last entry at 18:30 for both groups. Youth ages 13–15 also cost 3,790 ISK. Follow the operator’s supervision rules.

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

The operator’s September 10, 2026 tariff lists Warm admission at 7,490 ISK, Calm with a drink and towel at 10,150 ISK, and Delight with two drinks and a towel at 11,210 ISK. Check the booking price for your date.

Admission and inclusions checked September 10, 2026 against the operator’s published tariff. Compare what your selected package includes before adding rentals or drinks.

Planning help

Forest Lagoon FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

Do I need to book Forest Lagoon in advance?

Yes, advance booking online is required. Slots can fill quickly, especially on weekends and during summer.

How much does Forest Lagoon cost?

The operator’s September 10, 2026 tariff lists Warm admission at 7,490 ISK, Calm with a drink and towel at 10,150 ISK, and Delight with two drinks and a towel at 11,210 ISK. Check the booking price for your date.

Is Forest Lagoon suitable for children?

Children aged 10 and older are welcome. Under-10s are not permitted due to the spa's relaxation focus.

Is food available at Forest Lagoon?

Yes, the swim-up bar serves drinks and light snacks. There is also a café area with broader menu options.

Country reference: Iceland statistics.

Explore tours for your trip

Compare tours and check each itinerary for the stops you want. For help planning a route around your dates, request a quote.