Akureyri Countryside Iceland
Akureyri's countryside offers stunning geothermal lagoons, powerful waterfalls, and unique Icelandic landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Akureyri Countryside Iceland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Akureyri's countryside offers stunning geothermal lagoons, powerful waterfalls, and unique Icelandic landscapes.
"Forest Lagoon is a modern, stylish geothermal spa with bay views, offering a relaxing and well-organized experience."
🚗 Free Shuttle Service
Take advantage of the convenient free shuttle to Forest Lagoon from Akureyri.
💳 Payment & Essentials
Bring your swimsuit and credit card; most essentials like towels and high-quality toiletries are provided.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Forest Lagoon
Near Akureyri
Relax in geothermal waters with stunning bay views. Features a swim-up bar and a refreshing cold plunge.
Goðafoss Waterfall
Near Akureyri
A breathtaking horseshoe-shaped waterfall, often called the 'Waterfall of the Gods'.
Icelandic Horses
Countryside around Akureyri
Encounter the unique and sturdy Icelandic horse in their natural habitat.
+1Christmas House
Akureyri
A festive year-round destination celebrating the holiday spirit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Forest Lagoon
Akureyri: Your North Iceland Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Shuttle Service
Take advantage of the convenient free shuttle to Forest Lagoon from Akureyri.
💳 Payment & Essentials
Bring your swimsuit and credit card; most essentials like towels and high-quality toiletries are provided.
🚿 Pre-Visit Shower
Remember to shower naked before entering the lagoon. High-quality shampoo and conditioner are available.
✨ Off-Peak Enjoyment
Visiting during off-peak hours enhances the tranquil experience at Forest Lagoon.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Shuttle Service
Take advantage of the convenient free shuttle to Forest Lagoon from Akureyri.
💳 Payment & Essentials
Bring your swimsuit and credit card; most essentials like towels and high-quality toiletries are provided.
🚿 Pre-Visit Shower
Remember to shower naked before entering the lagoon. High-quality shampoo and conditioner are available.
✨ Off-Peak Enjoyment
Visiting during off-peak hours enhances the tranquil experience at Forest Lagoon.
💧 Cold Plunge
Don't miss the invigorating cold plunge after the sauna or hot pools for a refreshing contrast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Forest Lagoon for its modern design, excellent facilities, and relaxing geothermal waters. The seamless check-in, provided amenities, and beautiful bay views contribute to a highly enjoyable experience. Some note it's a 'fancy pool' compared to natural hot springs, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and well-organized destination.
"Such an awesome spot between Akureyri sea bay and forest trees. Everything was super well set up, and the water was warm and relaxing. The sauna and the mix of hot and cold pools were a great touch. Totally worth it!"
Adrià Burgell
"It is a well-organized, clean, and cozy place. We enjoyed the Great experience and the cold 12-degree pond, where you could cool off after the sauna or the hot part. Just bring your swimming suit and credit card; nothing else is needed."
Kris T
"Booking was easy, the free shuttle comes every 30-ish minutes, and the check-in process is quick and easy. The lagoon itself is gorgeous. There is a large hot spring area attached to a waterside bar, and a smaller hotter area to the side of that. The cold plunge is smaller and separated, but people don't stay there for too long. Cold and refreshing after using the sauna, which is large and rarely crowded. You need to shower naked before putting on your swimsuit and entering the water, but the towel service, changing rooms, and lockers make that easy. There is a swimsuit dryer that makes packing back up very easy. The shampoo, conditioner, and soap is all provided and high quality. We didn't try the restaurant or the separate bar, but the waterside bar drinks were great and the views were lovely. Even when it was crowded it was a great experience."
Rachel Calgaro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to travel from Reykjavik to Akureyri is by car, taking approximately 5-6 hours via Route 1. Alternatively, domestic flights are available from Reykjavik Airport (RKV) to Akureyri Airport (AEY), offering a quicker journey.
For Forest Lagoon, a free shuttle service operates from Akureyri, making it easily accessible.
While a shuttle is available, it's a short walk from the shuttle pick-up point to Forest Lagoon, and the walk from the cruise port is also less than 10 minutes.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Akureyri countryside at your own pace, allowing you to visit various natural attractions and scenic spots.
Yes, numerous guided tours depart from Akureyri, covering the Diamond Circle, whale watching in Húsavík, and other popular North Iceland sights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Booking tickets for Forest Lagoon is straightforward and can be done online in advance. The system uses technology to track your entrance and locker access.
Admission typically includes access to the geothermal pools, sauna, and changing facilities. Towels, shampoo, and conditioner are provided.
Yes, a swimsuit is required for entry into the geothermal pools at Forest Lagoon.
While not explicitly stated in the provided content, most geothermal spas have age recommendations for children. It's advisable to check their official website for specific policies.
The reviews suggest that credit cards are accepted, and it's best to bring one as it's mentioned as the primary payment method.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Forest Lagoon, Goðafoss waterfall, the Christmas House, and opportunities to see Icelandic horses. The surrounding countryside offers stunning natural beauty.
Forest Lagoon is described as a 'fancy pool' with modern amenities and bay views, while Myvatn Nature Baths are considered a more authentic hot spring experience.
Yes, visitors have reported seeing the Northern Lights while relaxing in the geothermal waters of Forest Lagoon, especially when staying late.
Forest Lagoon offers a large hot spring area with a swim-up bar, a smaller hotter area, a cold plunge pond, a spacious sauna, and well-equipped changing rooms with lockers.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and unique Icelandic horses provide incredible photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there's a waterside bar serving drinks, the reviews don't explicitly mention a full restaurant at Forest Lagoon. It's advisable to check their official website for current dining options.
Yes, Forest Lagoon features a swim-up bar where you can enjoy drinks while relaxing in the water.
Akureyri, being the second-largest urban area in Iceland, offers a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Key photo spots include Forest Lagoon, Goðafoss waterfall, the geothermal fields like Námafjall Hverir, and the scenic roads with Icelandic horses.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides the most dramatic lighting for photographing Goðafoss waterfall.
Yes, if conditions are right, you can capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights from Forest Lagoon.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like Icelandic horses. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light photography, especially for the Northern Lights.
Generally, photography is allowed in natural areas. However, always be respectful of the environment and any posted signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the countryside offers opportunities to see Icelandic horses, which can be a highlight for children.
Consider booking family-friendly tours that might include shorter, engaging stops at waterfalls or unique geological sites. Always check age recommendations for specific activities and be prepared for varied weather conditions.🚗 Road Trippers
Renting a car is essential for flexibility, allowing you to stop at viewpoints, explore off-the-beaten-path spots, and spend as much time as you like at attractions like Goðafoss or the geothermal areas. Plan your route to include the Diamond Circle for a comprehensive taste of the region's natural marvels. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, which can affect road travel, especially outside of summer months. Pack layers and check road conditions regularly.
🚢 Cruise Passengers
Many cruise lines also offer excursions to nearby attractions like Goðafoss waterfall or whale watching tours from Húsavík. If you have limited time, prioritize one or two key experiences that are logistically simple to manage from the port.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Forest Lagoon
Many find the experience incredibly relaxing, especially when enjoying the views of the sea bay and surrounding forest trees. The provision of high-quality toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, along with efficient changing rooms and lockers, makes the visit hassle-free. The swimsuit dryer is also a thoughtful touch for easy packing.
For an even more tranquil visit, consider going during off-peak hours. Some travelers have even been lucky enough to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights while soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Exploring North Iceland's Natural Wonders
Further afield, the Diamond Circle route encompasses several incredible sights. This includes the geothermal wonderland of Námafjall Hverir, with its bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles, and the dramatic craters of Skútustaðagígar. The region also boasts impressive waterfalls like Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall.
Don't miss the chance to encounter the iconic Icelandic horses in their natural countryside setting. These unique, sturdy animals are a quintessential part of the Icelandic landscape and offer fantastic photo opportunities.
+1 For a touch of festive cheer, the Christmas House in Akureyri provides a year-round holiday experience. Getting Around Akureyri and Beyond
For specific attractions like Forest Lagoon, a convenient free shuttle service operates from Akureyri, making it easily accessible without a car. This shuttle is also a short walk from the cruise port, simplifying logistics for cruise passengers.
Domestic flights connect Akureyri to Reykjavik, offering a faster alternative to the scenic but longer road trip.
When planning your itinerary, consider the distances between sights, as weather in North Iceland can change rapidly, impacting travel times. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit