Iceland's Latest Geothermal Lagoon Near the Golden Circle Has Swim-up Bars, Saunas, and Serene Views-Here's What It's Like

"That well-trodden route takes in Iceland's natural big-hitters-Þingvellir National Park, the erupting springs of Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall-but getting here has meant passing through a barren yet mesmerising landscape, where puffs of steam rise like smoke signals on the horizon and brown-and-white horses canter and graze. I'm far from alone. In a country in thrall to warm water, where geothermal heat fuels countless pools and lagoons, any new opening is greeted with avid curiosity."

"While the Blue Lagoon-its waters milky with mineral-rich silica-remains the most famous, drawing up to a million visitors a year, smaller, less touristy lagoons have been appearing across the country, from Sky Lagoon on Kársnes Harbour near Reykjavik to Forest Lagoon in Iceland's far north. Laugarás is similarly boutique in scale. It is centred around a striking building topped with turf, a nod to Iceland's traditional architecture, with aqueduct-like arches and an angular timber roof inside-a little Hobbit-like, a little sci-fi rustic."

Laugarás Lagoon opened on the banks of the Hvítá River, about an 80-minute drive from Reykjavik beyond the Golden Circle. The approach passes barren, steam-dotted landscapes and grazing horses. Geothermal culture pervades the country, with the Blue Lagoon remaining the best known while smaller boutique lagoons such as Sky Lagoon and Forest Lagoon have emerged. Laugarás centers on a turf-topped building with aqueduct-like arches and an angular timber roof, blending traditional and quirky design. Visitors gather in warm water through winter as a social ritual, with families and couples sharing pools and secluded spaces like the Grotto.

Read at Travel + Leisure