Step Into The Sky Lagoon Reykjavik’s Newest Geothermal Pool
Produced in Collaboration with Inspired by Iceland
Words & Photography by Alison Engstrom
The Sky Lagoon, just 5 miles from downtown Reykjavik, offers an unparalleled soaking and spa experience and has become a new must-visit destination for both locals and visitors since it opened in early 2021. Every part of your visit will be sensorial and tactile like the turf-covered walls, in a herringbone pattern, that carpet the exterior when you arrive and the large-scale rock formations that surround you as your move through the balmy water. While the facility is man-made, it’s been authentically designed from the standpoint of the visitor and is marked with intimate coves, a swim-up bar, and a cascading waterfall. The infinite edge, which stretches 230-feet has panoramic views of Skerjafjörður, a fjord where seal spottings are common; Fagradalsfjall, a volcano that recently began erupting after 6,000 years dormant, and Bessastaðir, the home of the President of Iceland.
The Ritual at The Sky Lagoon is a total-body, wellness experience that is broken into seven steps to be done at leisure. There are three different packages to choose from and each grants access to the lagoon, but only two to the ritual which is vital to the experience, especially if you plan on visiting only once. First, slow things down by lounging in the pool, then breathe your way through the cold plunge. Next head to the sauna, where you’ll be blown away by the expansive floor-to-ceiling window—the largest in Iceland—that lends unobstructed vistas of the surrounding area; then to cool off, step outside to the rain shower and let the gentle mist fall upon you. Now that your skin is fully prepped and your mind is calm, buff your way to a smoother complexion with their bespoke salt body scrub that is comprised of almond, sesame, and grape oils, followed by a visit to the sauna that allows the oils to melt and penetrate the skin, followed by a cool rinse in the adjacent showers.
Where to Eat & Drink
Soaking has a way of spawning a healthy appetite so after the lagoon, refuel at Sky Café or Smakk Bar. Choose from light bites including cheese platters, which incorporate local cheeses and fruit preserves to larger platters with seafood, all are accompanied by delicious local bread from Sandholt, one of the oldest bakeries in Reykjavik.
Choosing Between the Blue Lagoon and The Sky Lagoon
Depending on the amount of time you’ll be spending in Reykjavik, the question might become, which do I choose, the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon? Both places are worthy and unique in their own right so here are some pointers to help you decide if both aren’t an option.
Every year the Blue Lagoon, which is about 30-miles from downtown, hosts over a million guests, many of which are brought in by large tour buses as a stopping point as they explore the surrounding areas. The Blue Lagoon has two parts, the spa side, and the general public side; I have visited both and while the former is much more secluded, I was able to also experience the main part of the lagoon without feeling overwhelmed by people—something that is paramount when the point is to relax. Early arrival is best—they open at 9 a.m.—so book your ticket then to avoid the crowds (to read more about the Retreat at the Blue Lagoon, click here). All tickets have access to one mask treatment, a towel, and a minimum of one drink—the cost is $53 to $68. If you are more into visual pleasures, the Blue Lagoon does not disappoint and even a visit a few years prior made me still elated to visit again. There, you’ll find yourself in awe at the otherworldly blue water, the endless volcanic rock that envelops you and you’ll feel accomplished that you’ve checked somewhere so prolific off your bucket list.
Unlike the Blue Lagoon, and because it’s newer, the Sky Lagoon is still flying under the radar and is frequented by locals and for the most part is bereft of the bus scene, for now. Arriving around the time they open allowed for a peaceful swim and discovery of the destination. The interiors are serene and create a cocooning ambiance only adding to the experience and the restaurant is noteworthy and delicious. Plus, its close proximity to downtown makes it only a taxi ride away. If you want to linger, and make more of a day out of it, there are the dining options of the Sky Café and Smakk Bar.