Discover Iceland’s newest winter destination at Laugarás Lagoon, a geothermal sanctuary newly opened on the iconic Golden Circle.
Positioned in Laugarás village and easily reachable by car – just over an hour from Reykjavík – guests float across two levels of therapeutic warm waters connected by a dramatic waterfall, soaking beneath nature’s greatest light show.
The timing of Laugarás Lagoon’s opening is exceptional: a rare ‘solar maximum’ (occurring once every 11 years) makes this winter likely to be the most spectacular Northern Lights season until 2037, with peak activity expected to last until March 2026.
At the heart sits Ylja restaurant, meaning ‘warmth’ in Icelandic, where acclaimed Icelandic chef Gísli Matt transforms local ingredients into exceptional seasonal dining. Whether visiting for Christmas, New Year, or any time this winter season, Laugarás Lagoon offers a wondrous Nordic escape.
Laugarás is a charming geothermal village where travellers can slow down and experience the softer, greener side of Iceland. Known for its thriving greenhouse culture, warm natural springs, and peaceful riverside scenery, it offers an inviting blend of nature and wellness. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walks, meet small-scale producers, soak in nearby hot baths, and discover the simple beauty of Icelandic countryside life – all in a serene, welcoming community that feels worlds away from the crowds.
Discover the lagoon’s hidden winter world
Perched on the banks of the Hvítá River, winding pathways lead guests through 1,000m² of therapeutic waters (37-39°C), revealing discoveries at every turn: stairs leading beneath a waterfall, a secluded grotto for quiet meditation, and saunas amid trees.
The architecture references Iceland’s historic turf houses through a contemporary lens, with living grass-roofed structures blending into the landscape. Drawing on Roman and Japanese design principles, the space offers an immersive environment influenced by Japanese onsen culture. The interiors feature rammed earth installations crafted with clay and Icelandic red lava rock, brass sculptures, bespoke oak furniture, handmade seaweed lamps, and soundscapes captured from the surrounding landscape. Ever-shifting natural light reshapes the mood throughout the day, defying typical lagoon minimalism.
The lower pool offers an intimate sanctuary, while the upper pool provides sweeping vistas. A hidden grotto accommodates 10-15 guests. Forest-edge saunas overlook the Hvítá River, followed by a cold plunge pool (5-10°C) and a forest pool (39-41°C) for complete woodland immersion.
Laugarás Lagoon admission
Guests can choose between three admission packages.
Birki (from ISK 6,900) provides unlimited access to all outdoor wellness areas, a changing room with personal locker and vanity station, and complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel.
Lerki (from ISK 9,400) includes everything in Birki, plus use of a towel and one complimentary drink at the swim-up bar.
Ösp (from ISK 15,900) offers the complete Lerki package enhanced with a two-course meal from the day menu at Ylja restaurant.
Overall, ideal for family gatherings or corporate events, the restaurant seats up to 80 indoors with additional outdoor space, plus a private dining room for 38 guests. For groups of 10+, contact sales@laugaraslagoon.is.
Festive opening hours
Christmas Eve (24th December): Lagoon: 10:00-14:00 (last entry 12:00) Ylja Restaurant: 11:30-14:00 (last seating 12:30).
New Year’s Eve (31st December):Lagoon: 10:00-16:00 (last entry 14:00) Ylja Restaurant: 10:00-16:00 (last seating 14:15).
Plan your winter visit
Laugarás Lagoon is easily reachable by car from Reykjavík, just over an hour’s drive on The Golden Circle route. Guests typically visit for a half-day experience combining lunch and lagoon, or a full-day immersion with lagoon and dinner. For potential Northern Lights viewing, time your visit for after dark. This is a must-do winter destination for anyone discovering Iceland this season.
Iceland’s must-visit winter destination
Positioned in Laugarás village, 94km from Reykjavík and between Geysir (33km) and Gullfoss (43km), this is one of the best locations in Iceland to witness the aurora borealis; immersing oneself in geothermal waters as the Northern Lights dance overhead is a true bucket list experience.
Winter season hours (October-May): Lagoon 10am-9pm (last entry 7:30pm), Ylja Restaurant 11:30am-9pm (last seating 8pm).
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