Guide to Sky Lagoon in Iceland

is the saying at Sky Lagoon. A special place that is geared toward wellness and serenity. Since its opening in May 2021, both locals and travelers come here to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. While most Iceland visitors tend to flock to the Blue Lagoon, this hidden gem is even closer to the airport. Avoid Iceland’s tourist traps and try the local hotspot, known as Sky Lagoon, instead.

Benefits Of Geothermal Water

Soaking your body in geothermal water is so beneficial to your health. This is due to the long list of healing benefits associated with it. First, it is amazing for your skin. The minerals in the water will help detoxify your skin cells. The heat from the water can help with body aches and soreness. This is why a lot of athletes will head to the hot springs and geothermal pools after long athletic events. It is recommended for your legs and arms after a long day hiking in the mountains or a session at the gym. Trust us, your body will thank you afterward! 

Sky Lagoon sits at a temperature of 38–40°C or 100–104° F, with the deepest point being 4’9” ft. Perfect for floating around and bathing your sore muscles. In Iceland, thermal pools have always been a place to gather. While in America, meeting up for a coffee may be normal, meeting at Sky Lagoon is equivalent. Luckily for Icelanders, it is way more favorable than grabbing a coffee. Geothermal waters are a place to gather and catch up with friends and family in Iceland. They also boost your mental health, providing you with a stimulating yet relaxing state of mind. It is said that spending some time in geothermal water can help you get a better night of sleep too. The way we see it, it is a win-win all around, for both your body and your mind.

The 7-Step Ritual

Learn all about the Iceland bathing culture at Sky Lagoon. There is no better way to understand its history than to literally soak in it. You can do this by participating in “The Ritual”, which is a seven-step tranquil adventure.

1. Lagoon.
2. Cold plunge.
3. Sauna.
4. Energizing mist.
5. Sky Body Scrub.
6. Steam room.
7. Shower and relax.

First, you will enter the lagoon through a stunning cave-like entrance. Which will bring you into the warm waters which range from approximately 38–40°C or 100–104° F. Swim your way over to the infinity edge, which provides breathtaking views of the ocean and Iceland.

Once you feel warmed up and relaxed, it is time to take your own polar bear plunge. Also known as cold therapy. The cold pool is known to be similar to an adrenaline rush. As it stimulates your immune system while decreasing blood flow in your body. Another significant benefit is that it can even tighten your skin. Your visit to the cold therapy pool will be short and sweet, as it is recommended to stay anywhere from 10-30 seconds. The cold pool is inspired by the oldest pool in Iceland, Snorralaug, which is located in Reykholt. Snorralaug was owned by Snorri Sturluson, a well-known historian. A little Iceland tradition to pair with your chilly dip.

Later, you will make your way to the sauna. Where you will spend five to ten minutes The views from the sauna make it even more special. Stare out the large windows that showcase the gorgeous sea. Did we mention that they even play sounds of the ocean for you? Get lost for a while, in this invigorating room.

When the ten minutes come to a close, it is time to balance your body. Going from warm to cold to hot may confuse your body a bit. That is why Sky Lagoon provides a cold fog-mist for you to enjoy. The mist will awaken your skin and provide you with a natural high.

Now that your skin is waking up, it is time to reward it with The Sky Body Rub! A refreshing scrub that will make your skin glow. The scrub features salt from the sea and helps your body get rid of any dead skin cells. Rub the scrub in small round circles, this will leave your skin super refreshed and smooth. The scent of the scrub is reminiscent of springtime, one of the loveliest times of the year in Iceland.

After the scrub, your skin will be left with a slight tingling sensation. This means it is the perfect time to head over to the steam room. This steam will open your pores up, allowing the scrub to enter even further. This is due to the moisture in the air. Another benefit of the steam room is the positive impact it has on your sinuses and lungs. Take a deep breath and unwind for a while.

The seven-step ritual comes to a close with a return trip to the lagoon. First, you will shower off any leftover scrub on your body. Then you can make your way back into the warm water. Take in the sights of Iceland that surround you. You can even spot the presidents of Iceland’s house from here. He resides in a historic property called Bessastaðir. Don’t feel rushed when enjoying the lagoon either. The recommended soaking time is 1.5–2 hours. So take your time and appreciate every moment of it.

Lagoon Bar

Make your swim a bit more relaxing, by adding an ice cold drink to it. The Lagoon Bar can help you with that goal. The bar sits right on the cave at the far edge of the Lagoon. They feature some of Iceland’s favorite beers as well as local drinks. On draught, they offer Gull, Somersby Apple, and more. Want to sip on some bubble? Then try sparkling Moet or Prosecco Rose. Nonalcoholic options include Noughty and Chateau Rose. You can even sip on Collab, which is a caffeinated nonalcoholic drink. It is noted that staying hydrated is very important when swimming in warm water. Make sure to drink extra water in between alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages. There are water fountains in changing rooms and at the Lagoon. You can also purchase water at the lagoon bar. Please note that you will be limited to three alcoholic drinks during your time at the lagoon. This is to keep you safe and to ensure that you are staying hydrated during your stay.

Grab A Light Snack at Sky Cafe

Open at 8:00 AM is the convenient Sky Cafe. They serve up some light and flavorful meals, all presented in a cafe-style environment. Fresh sandwiches are offered, such as the “Ham & Cheese Toastie” and the “Hummus Bagel”.

You can also try the flavorful and hearty soup of the day. Be sure to try one of their piping hot coffees, lattes, or Americans. A perfect place to reward yourself after spending a rejuvenating day at the lagoon. Sky Café opens at 8:00 AM, and the last orders are taken thirty minutes before closing time.

Dine At Smakk Bar

If you are looking for an ample culinary experience, then look no further than Smakk Bar. Smakk means “Tasty” in Icelandic, so you know you are in for a treat. The Sky Lagoon restaurant serves up local Iceland dishes that feature ingredients located throughout the country. There are plenty of dishes for you to choose from, all highlighting Reykjavik and Iceland as a country.

The menu includes three small plates. “Mind At Cheese '' is a creamy cheese that is paired with bilberry jam. “The Generous Sea’ is a traditional pickled herring from the fishing village Djúpivogur. “Cheese & Chocolate” is a crowd favorite, because let’s be honest, there couldn’t be a better duo. The chocolate is even from Nói Siríus, the oldest chocolate factory in Iceland. This dish is ideal for sharing while enjoying drinks.

In addition to the small plates, there are three large dishes featured on the menu. “The Icelandic Countryside”, which is reindeer and goose wild game paté. It is accompanied by red onion jam, smoked wild goose fillet with horseradish sauce, Ljótur ‘the ugly’ blue cheese, the flavorful Feykir, and organic bilberry jam. Absolutely delicious!

“From Land And Sea” is excellent for those wanting the best of both worlds. The dish features the famous pickled herring from the village of Djúpivogur on rye bread, Iceland’s signature gravlax with homemade mustard and dill sauce, and cured sheep fillet with horseradish sauce. Served with a side of freshly baked bread.

Maybe you just want to have it all. If that is the case, you need to order “The Sky Platter”. The platter has the white mould cheese Auður, the scrumptious Feykir and organic bilberry jam, reindeer- and goose wild game paté with red onion jam. Gravlax with the signature homemade mustard and dill sauce, Hjónabandssæla ‘happy marriage bliss’ rhubarb pie. How could you possibly resist that?

It is no wonder why the food is downright delicious, thanks to the authentic ingredients. The ingredients are gathered by a father-son duo who explore the fields of South Iceland. They will hunt the game to provide fresh meat dishes. They deliver the pickled herring that is featured in “The Generous Sea” dish.

Pair your meal with a glass of Moillard Hautes Côtes De Nuits Pinot Noir. or Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial. Smakk Bar opens at 11:00 AM. and the last orders are taken thirty minutes before closing time. An excellent way to end your relaxing experience at Sky Lagoon.

Know Before You Go

Are you ready to visit Sky Lagoon? We will cover the main things you need to know before you go, so your day is stress-free.

One of the advantages of Sky Lagoon is that you do not need to carry your wallet or purse around with you. They will provide you with a wristband upon entry that is linked to your preferred credit card. This way, you can leave your personal items in the locker, without worrying about where you left them.

Traveling with kids? Children under the age of twelve are not permitted at Sky Lagoon. Children 12–14 must be accompanied by a guardian. Which is someone who is 18 years or older.

If you forget your towel that is okay. While you are more than welcome to bring your own, towels are available free of charge. What a nice touch to your Sky Lagoon experience.

You can even come straight from the airport with your luggage. There is a baggage area that can be used for a small fee of 800 ISK. Instead of waiting around for hotel check-in, come spend time at Sky Lagoon instead. You can even make this your last stop before flying home. A fantastic way to start, or end, your trip to Iceland.

Sky Lagoon opening hours

You can see Sky Lagoon any time of the year. You just need to be mindful of the hours during each season.

June 17 - August 14

• Daily from: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM.

August 15 - September 30

• Daily from: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM.

October 1 - June 16

• Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

What a unique opportunity to be able to float around in Sky Lagoon while the sun is setting and Iceland's stars begin to fill the sky. If you are visiting in June, you can even visit Sky Lagoon during Iceland’s Midnight Sun.

Packages

There are a few different ways to spoil yourself at Sky Lagoon and we will walk you through them.

The Pure Lite Pass is suggested for those who may not have a lot of time, but still want to visit the lagoon. The package includes admission to Sky Lagoon, a towel, and access to the locker rooms. Spend a few hours soaking your body, before continuing on to your next adventure.

The most popular option is the Pure Pass. This package includes admission to Sky Lagoon, a towel, access to the locker rooms, and the seven-step ritual, which is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when visiting Iceland. A suggested option for those who have a bit more time.

If luxury is your thing, then purchase the Sky Pass. This option includes admission to Sky Lagoon, a towel, the seven-step ritual, and access to a private changing room with Signature Sky Body Lotion. Your body will love you after you apply the soft and silky Icelandic lotion.

Traveling with a friend or significant other? Then the Sky Lagoon For Two option may better suit you. This package provides extravagance and convenience. It provides two Sky Lagoon Passes, the seven-step ritual, one drink per person, private changing rooms with the Sky Body Lotion, and a towel. Oh, did we mention that the mouth-watering Sky Platter is included in this package too? Eat, drink and enjoy a full day at Sky Lagoon with this detailed package.

Sky Lagoon is gaining popularity in Iceland. We believe it may even become as, if not more, popular than the Blue Lagoon in the future. As both travelers and locals love it. Sky Lagoon is a bucket list item that should be added to your next Iceland road trip. After you have checked it off your list, you can continue soaking your way through Iceland by visiting the 11 Best Hot Springs in the country.