A magical escape at Laugarás Lagoon and Ylja Restaurant

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Iceland´s newest addition to it´s collection of geothermal sanctuaries, the breathtaking Laugarás Lagoon, nestled right in the heart of the Golden Circle.

From the moment I arrived, I knew this place would be different. Laugarás Lagoon isn´t just another lagoon, it´s a masterpiece of design, atmosphere and pure Icelandic serenity.

What struck me first was the harmony in every detail. The building embraces a palette of soft neutral tones that immediately put you at ease. It´s elegant without trying too hard, from the gentle colour combinations to the beautifully selected furniture and finishes. Even the changing rooms feel like part of a calming, well-thought-out experience. There's a sense of cohesion throughout the entire space, as if every element was curated to evoke comfort and beauty.

The lagoon itself is uniquely structured with two levels, adding depth and character to the experience. It creates little corners of intimacy and wide-open views at the same time. And of course, the two in-lagoon bars bring a touch of fun and luxury, letting you enjoy a drink while soaking in warm, soothing waters.

The saunas deserve a special mention! Beautifully designed, perfectly heated, and framed by magnificent views. One of my favourite moments was stepping out toward the viewpoint overlooking the Hvítá river. The scene was nothing short of cinematic: the dark wood tones of the building, tall trees surrounding the area, and small pieces of ice drifting softly down the river. I stood there at the water's edge, completely mesmerized, and for a moment it felt like the time simply stopped.

Adding to this magical experience is the cozy and stylish hot pot, tucked into an idyllic corner embraced by nature. Everything here feels intentional, peaceful, and deeply connected to the landscape.

And then... there is Ylja Restaurant, an absolute gem on its own. The interior is a blend of light wood, soft green accents, and beautiful marble detail, a space that feels both modern and grounded in Icelandic aesthetics. The atmosphere is warm and sophisticated without losing its comfort. But the true star is, of course, the food! Created by the talented Icelandic chef Gísli Matt, every plate is a little work of art. The flavours are thoughtful, creative, and deeply satisfying. The kind of dishes that make you pause after the first bite!

Adding to this blissful experience were the cocktails, which quite honestly took me straight to cloud nine. Crafted by the talented Martin, the drinks were as refined and thoughtful as the setting itself. I was especially delighted to experience his work again, having previously enjoyed his creations at Slippurinn, the well-known restaurant as well by chef Gísli Matt.

Laugarás Lagoon and Ylja Restaurant together deliver an experience that is soothing, stylish, and full of soul. It´s a place where design meets nature in perfect harmony, and where Iceland's beauty is celebrated in every detail.

If you´re visiting the Golden Circle, this is a stop you absolutely shouldn't miss.

A heartfelt thank you to Laugarás Lagoon for such a beautiful, calm, and effortlessly relaxing experience.

Laugarás Lagoon

Ana Rebelo Pinto