Skógarböðin
About Skógarböðin
Skógarböðin, known in English as the Forest Lagoon, is a geothermal spa in Vaðlaskógur forest on the east shore of Eyjafjörður, about 4 km from central Akureyri. It opened in May 2022. The pools sit among birch and pine trees and look across the fjord to Akureyri, and the hot water comes from a spring struck while the nearby Vaðlaheiði road tunnel was being built.
There are two geothermal pools at around 37–41°C, a cold plunge pool of about 11–12°C and a Finnish dry sauna at about 80°C. The pools are about 125 cm deep and have swim-up bars, and there is a bistro on site. Facilities include an accessible changing room, luggage storage and EV charging.
The lagoon is just off Route 1 near the western entrance to the Vaðlaheiðargöng tunnel, a 5–7 minute drive from Akureyri. A free shuttle runs from town; lagoon bookings get priority, but seats cannot be reserved. The cruise terminals are about 4 km away, which makes it a popular short excursion from ships calling at Akureyri.
In September 2026, basic Warm entry was 7,490 ISK, with packages including a towel and drinks from 10,150 ISK. Children aged 6–15 pay 3,790 ISK and children 5 and under are free; towel rental is 1,400 ISK. Under-16s need an adult guardian, children under 12 are not admitted after 20:00, and only Icelandic krónur are accepted on site. Booking is recommended, since entry is not guaranteed without one.
The lagoon is open all year, daily from 10:00 to midnight, with the last booking slot at 22:30 and bathers out of the water by 23:30. Late winter evenings give a chance of northern lights over the fjord, and long summer evenings stay light until close.
Photos
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Good to know
How far is the Forest Lagoon from Akureyri?
About 4 km, a 5–7 minute drive across the head of the fjord. A free shuttle also runs from town.
How much does the Forest Lagoon cost?
Basic adult entry was 7,490 ISK in September 2026. Children aged 6–15 pay 3,790 ISK and under-6s are free.
Do you need to book the Forest Lagoon in advance?
Booking is recommended. Walk-ins are only admitted if there is space.
How hot is the Forest Lagoon?
The two pools are about 37–41°C, and the cold plunge pool is about 11–12°C.
Is there an age limit at the Forest Lagoon?
All ages are welcome until 20:00, after which children under 12 are not admitted. Under-16s must be with an adult.
What are the Forest Lagoon opening hours?
It is open every day from 10:00 to midnight, with the last booking slot at 22:30.
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