In 2012 work started on a tunnel through Vadlaheidi, the mountain range that rises to the east of the northern town of Akureyri. The project soon became difficult since the tunnel ran through a river of hot water within the mountain. The tunnel flooded, and working conditions were difficult. The project was delayed and was plagued by cost overruns while contractors struggled to control the deluge. A hot water waterfall ran unharnessed into the sea for years, but this has changed. The new and wonderful Forest Lagoon now uses this hot water that originates deep inside the adjacent mountain.
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Nestled in the forest
The baths are nestled amidst the woodland of Vaðlaskógur, just minutes away from the Akureyri. These outdoor baths have a beautiful view of Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland’s longest fjords.
The Forest Lagoon is welcoming to kids
I visited the baths with my brother, my sister, and her young daughter earlier this summer. The Forest Lagoon features a gently warm large pool, a hotter but smaller pool, a traditional Finnish dry sauna, and a cold pool. I was especially impressed with the view from the sauna. If you are hungry, you can eat at the Forest Bistro, and if you are thirsty, you can purchase drinks from bars in the largest pool. My little niece loved the baths, and we bought her a nice slushy. So yes, the baths are not only great for adults who are looking to relax, they are kid-friendly too.
Longing for a warm winter wonderland
We were in nice summer weather, but I would love to visit the Forest Lagoon in winter. The trees and their location shelter the baths, so it would be extra cozy to soak in the warm water in winter. Add in the possibility of northern lights dancing in the sky, making it irresistible to visit the Forest Lagoon in winter.
I will return to Forest Lagoon; they are one of the best baths I have visited here in Iceland and a fantastic addition to things to do in my dear hometown of Akureyri.
