The newly-opened Forest Lagoon is setting a new standard for Icelandic hot springs. Here’s why everyone’s so excited about the new bathing spot in the north of Iceland…

Where is it?

Harsh winds prevent trees from growing too tall in Iceland, making forests a rarity. But this nature-driven, purpose-built spa, which opened last month, makes the most of what’s available by occupying one of the few leafy sites in the north.

Along with the sweet smell of sap and earthy moss, the natural attraction of the location is its sheltered position – exceptional in a country where winds can gust up to 70mph.

Is it easy to reach?

While many of Iceland’s hot springs are hidden in (almost) inaccessible places, this one is a doddle to find. Overlooking the 60km Eyjafjörður fjord – where humpbacks regularly migrate to feed – it’s across the water from mountain-backed capital of the north, Akureyri.

What’s it like?

Cut directly into a mountain, with exposed basalt rock forming a feature wall, the wooden spa building is a natural beauty. Trees from east Iceland have been planted at the entrance – where a bistro serves meals, coffees and drinks – and stone sinks are a striking feature in the changing rooms.

The lagoon is divided between two main pools – heated to 39C and 41C. Inside, a wooden glass-fronted sauna looks onto the water, framing a view of snow-dusted mountains and deciduous trees, whose boughs rotate through a seasonal palette of golds, bronzes, silvers and greens.

So what else makes it so special?

It might sound a bit technical, but having 27 outlets pumping water into the lagoon is a game-changer, allowing water to flow evenly, so there are no annoying cold patches to surprise you.

A choice of two swim-up bars avoids long queues. Plus it’s open until midnight – later than any other purpose-built lagoon in Iceland – meaning you can stay out later to watch the midnight sun or catch a glimpse of the northern lights, depending on the time of year.

3 more trendy Icelandic hot springs to try…

1 Myvatn Nature Baths, Myvatn

Bathe in water as blue as Keflavik’s famous lagoon, at one of the longest established hot springs in the north. An hour’s drive east from Akureyri, overlooking a gaping caldera, it neighbours the sulphur-streaked bubbling hot pots and steaming fumaroles of Hverir. Work is ongoing to transform the site with new facilities for 2024. Visit myvatnnaturebaths.is

2 GeoSea, Husavik

A cliff-top position overlooking the Skjálfandi Bay and the Article Circle to the north, is this smart lagoon’s trump card. Relax in warm water and watch humpbacks fluke and occasionally breach as kittiwakes swoop overhead. Combine with a three-hour silent whale-watching trip from the harbour in Husavik, on one of North Sailing’s electric vessels. Visit geosea.is

3 SkyLagoon, Reykjavik

Opened last year, this slick spa and heated pool is on the outskirts of Reykjavik. Entered directly from the dimly-lit changing rooms, a waterway winds through rocks to reach an infinity pool, with waterfalls and a bar tucked into a cave. Pay extra for a seven-step ritual, which includes a circuit of sauna, rain room and body scrub. Stick around for sourdough sandwiches and fresh soups in the café. Visit skylagoon.com