Laugarás Lagoon is now open

What was once a vision has now become reality; the construction of Laugarás Lagoon is complete, and today, October 15, 2025, the lagoon welcomes its very first guests.

The lagoon spans approximately one thousand square meters and has two levels, connected by a striking waterfall walkway. The outdoor area features two saunas, an outdoor shower, a cold plunge pool, and a hot tub set in a forest clearing, offering a unique experience of tranquility and nature. A key part of the overall experience is a visit to the restaurant Ylja, where chef Gísli Matthías Auðunsson serves a diverse, wholesome menu sourced largely from local farmers.

The project was executed by Mannverk, with architecture by T.ARK, engineering design by Efla, and lighting design by Hildiberg. Þórunn Arnardóttir served as project manager and Jakob Ásmundsson as construction manager. Together, these teams have created a unique bathing lagoon where nature, geothermal warmth, and design meet in harmony.

We hope that visitors will find here serenity, inspiration, and a meaningful connection—to the land, the water, and themselves.

Gísli Matt leads the restaurant Ylja at Laugarás Lagoon

This summer, a new geothermal lagoon, Laugarás Lagoon, will open in the uplands of Árnessýsla, near the bridge over the Hvítá River in Laugarás. Alongside the lagoon, the restaurant Ylja will be launched, led by renowned chef Gísli Matthías Auðunsson.

Gísli Matt, known for Slippurinn in Vestmannaeyjar and Skál in Reykjavík, has earned widespread acclaim both in Iceland and abroad for his exceptional culinary skills. At Ylja, he will focus on fresh seafood and high-quality local produce from South Iceland, particularly the region’s renowned vegetables.