The European Spa Gold List: Sky Lagoon, Iceland

Best for: Restorative rituals in geothermal waters

Against a stunning Atlantic Ocean backdrop, the expansive geothermal Sky Lagoon was unveiled by hospitality company Pursuit in Kársnes Harbour, just minutes away from Reykjavik’s city centre.

The lagoon was created to offer guests restorative spa rituals rooted in Icelandic traditions and among its treatment offer is a seven-step journey called The Sky Ritual. This was developed based on Icelandic bathing traditions that combine warm and cold waters, steam, dry heat and fresh air. First guests bathe in the healing, warm geothermal waters of the Lagoon, then they take a plunge into a glacially cold pool before spending time in a sauna. A dose of cold fog-mist precedes a body scrub and a steam bath before the experience concludes with a shower.

Sky Lagoon’s design, inspired by the country’s cinematic landscapes, features an unobstructed 70m infinity edge to showcase its expansive ocean and sky vistas. Embracing simple and natural elements, its aesthetic echos the style of Icelandic turf houses with a modern and minimal approach delivering layers of grey-blues, deep greens, whites and creams to mirror the surrounding landscape.

Reflecting on the project’s relevance in the current broader spa and wellness landscape, David Barry, president of Pursuit, said: “The restorative nature of wellness experiences such as Sky Lagoon will become much more meaningful as we continue to emerge from what has been an incredibly challenging period. The need to re-energise, relax and restore is integral to both our physical and mental wellbeing, and we are thrilled to introduce guests to the Sky Lagoon experience.”

SPA STATISTICS

Spa size: 2,000sqm space Facilities: Cold plunge pool, Pure and Sky changing rooms, geothermal pool, dry heat sauna, steam room, experience shower, bar and café. Suppliers: Vetur, VOR

www.skylagoon.com