Sky Lagoon

Perched on the rugged lava cliffs of Kópavogur, Sky Lagoon merges the raw, mist-streaked drama of the North Atlantic with the refined warmth of Icelandic bathing culture.

What to expect

The centerpiece is a 75-meter infinity pool that drops away into the dark, churning waters of the ocean, creating the illusion of a liquid horizon that melts into the clouds. Upon entry, you are funneled through the "Seven-Step Ritual," a sensory journey housed in a turf-roofed structure inspired by traditional Icelandic architecture.

You begin with a soak in the main lagoon before moving to an invigorating cold plunge. From there, you enter a sauna with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall framing the ocean, followed by a chilled mist room, a rejuvenating salt scrub, and a final steam session. If you book the ‘Sky’ package, you receive access to private changing suites and exclusive complimentary amenities—including a body lotion and scrub that smell of arctic moss and sea salt—elevating the experience from a simple swim to a high-end wellness retreat.

History & significance

While the Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal manifestation, Sky Lagoon positions itself as a tribute to Iceland’s historical heritage of bathing. The design draws heavily on the "turf house" aesthetic, using stone, wood, and layered earth to minimize the visual impact on the coastline. Opened in 2021 by Pursuit (a hospitality company), the lagoon was crafted to provide an accessible, upscale "ritual" space that feels deeply connected to the basalt rock coastline of Kópavogur rather than the volcanic plains of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Practical tips

Bookings: Essential. Walk-ins are rarely accommodated. The 'Sky' package is recommended for those wanting to avoid the communal changing areas.
Time of day: Aim for the hour before sunset. You will experience the pool in daylight, watch the sky turn indigo, and eventually soak under the ambient glow of the pool lights.
Weather: Do not let rain deter you. The contrast between the freezing air and the 38-40°C water is most potent during light drizzle or snow.
Etiquette: Showering thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering is culturally mandatory and strictly enforced; privacy stalls are available in the public showers.

Getting there

Sky Lagoon is located at Vesturvör 44, 200 Kópavogur. It is roughly a 10-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík (Miðborg). If you do not have a rental car, the easiest method is a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle provided by the lagoon upon checkout. Public bus routes run to the Kópavogur area, but expect a 15-minute walk from the nearest stop (Hamraborg) to the lagoon’s entrance.

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