May 27th 2021, 15:01
Get the latest on Iceland’s fiery volcano, new spa experiences and hiking across a glacier as Mark Stratton finds out what it’s like in Iceland right now
Viewed from a glacially shattered hillside, an hour south of Reykjavik, I’m utterly awestruck by the fury venting from the coal-black cone of Fagradalsfjall, Iceland’s newest volcano. It began erupting on March 19 and is set to become the star of Icelandic tourism this summer.
I’m 400 metres away and my face prickles from the furnace heat as Fagradalsfjall emits a sonorous growl, like gravel being tossed around a cement mixer. This is the precursor of an eruption (they are regular) of iridescent blood-orange magma, spewing above the crater rim, then spilling from the cone as if a sweet filling oozing from a fondant dessert.
By DestinAsian - May 14, 2021
A 20-minute drive from the heart of ReykjavÃk, Sky Lagoon puts a modern twist on local bathing traditions.
Photo courtesy of Sky Lagoon
Dreaming about Iceland? Hereâs another reason to start planning a trip to the Nordic island:
Sky Lagoon, a nature-inspired thermal spa in Kársnes Harbour, near ReykjavÃk. Opened at the end of April, the brand-new attraction features a man-made geothermal lagoon with unobstructed views of the Atlantic, alongside sauna and steam rooms, a swim-up bar, and turf houseâstyle architecture. Thereâs also a swim-up bar at the lagoon where bathers can sip on wines and Icelandic beers.
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Iceland’s popular bathing spot the Blue Lagoon has got some competition. The country, well known for its natural hot springs and glorious dark skies, just got a brand new geothermal lagoon, right on the water’s edge.
The Sky Lagoon, which opened in spring 2021 just outside of Iceland’s capital Reykjavik, allows visitors to wallow in a warm, 230-foot infinity pool with unobstructed views of the ocean. At night, it even provides a front-row seat for stargazing and spotting the Northern Lights.
Photograph: Christopher Lund
With turf-topped buildings and a clever design, the lagoon is designed to blend in with its natural surroundings. The Sky Lagoon also has a waterfall, an in-lagoon swim-up bar, a cool pool and saunas.